Victron MPPT Err 33 and Err 34: PV Over-Voltage and Over-Current Fixes

Key Takeaways

• Err 33 indicates PV over-voltage, requiring a re-organisation of solar panels.
• Err 34 indicates PV over-current, often resolved by a power cycle.
• Err 33 will auto-reset once the PV voltage drops to a safe limit.
• If Err 34 persists after a power cycle, the MPPT controller may be faulty.

What do Victron MPPT Err 33 and Err 34 mean?

Victron MPPT Err 33 signals a PV over-voltage condition, meaning the solar array's open-circuit voltage is too high for the charger. Victron MPPT Err 34 indicates a PV over-current fault, where the current from the solar panels has exceeded the charger's rated limit. For Err 33, the first step is to review your PV array configuration. For Err 34, the initial action is to power cycle the unit.

Diagnosing Victron MPPT Err 33 (PV Over-Voltage)

Err 33 is an indication that the PV-array configuration with regard to open-circuit voltage is critical for this charger. This error will auto-reset after PV-voltage has dropped to safe limit.

1. Check PV Array Configuration: Review your solar panel wiring. Ensure the series string voltage does not exceed the maximum input voltage rating of your specific Victron MPPT model. The specific voltage limits that trigger Err 33 are model-dependent and are not stated generally.
2. Observe Auto-Reset: The error will clear automatically once the PV voltage drops to a safe level. This might happen as solar irradiance decreases later in the day.
3. Use VictronConnect App or Remote Panel: For more detailed information, connect to your MPPT charger using the VictronConnect app or a remote panel such as the Color Control GX or the MPPT Control.

Diagnosing Victron MPPT Err 34 (PV Over-Current)

Err 34 means the current from the solar-panel array has exceeded the rated current limit. This error could be generated due to an internal system fault.

1. Disconnect All Power Sources: Ensure the MPPT charger is disconnected from the solar array, battery, and any other power inputs.
2. Wait for 3 Minutes: Keep the charger disconnected from all power sources for a minimum of 3 minutes.
3. Reconnect Power: Reconnect the battery first, then the solar array.
4. Observe Error Persistence: If the error persists after power-up, the controller is probably faulty.

Cause/fix table section

Understanding Victron MPPT Error Codes

Victron MPPT controllers provide error codes to help diagnose system issues. These codes can be accessed through various interfaces. Detailed error codes can be read with the VictronConnect app. You can also use a remote panel, such as the Color Control GX or the MPPT Control, to view detailed error information. For quick checks, you may also see the Toolkit App for LED codes. The error code list applies to various Victron products, including Inverter RS / Multi RS, Skylla Battery Chargers, and Orion Smart DC-DC Chargers, and is generally applicable to MPPT solar charge controllers.

Safety: Working with Solar PV Systems

Always prioritize safety when working with solar PV systems. Solar panels can produce dangerous voltages and currents even in low light.

• Isolate Power: Before inspecting or re-organising panels, ensure all power sources (PV array, battery, AC input/output) are disconnected from the MPPT controller.
• Insulated Tools: Use properly insulated tools to prevent accidental short circuits or electrical shocks.
• Eye Protection: Wear appropriate eye protection when working with batteries or electrical connections.
• Short Circuit Risk: A spanner or other metal tool dropped across battery terminals or PV connections can cause a severe short circuit, leading to fire or injury.

When to call a technician instead

If Err 34 persists after you have disconnected the charger from all power sources, waited 3 minutes, and powered it up again, the controller is probably faulty. In such cases, contact your dealer for further assistance. Any internal system faults that cannot be resolved by the outlined steps should be handled by a qualified technician to avoid voiding warranties or causing further damage.