Warning What does this mean?

Your system is down or running degraded, but this is not an immediate safety danger. Work through the safe steps below.

Solis Inverter OV-Tem Error: Meaning, Causes & Safe Fix

Your Solis inverter is overheating and has reduced output or shut down to protect itself. Check ventilation and direct sun exposure — this is usually an installation-environment issue.

What should I do first?

Two quick questions — we'll point you to the right starting point.

Is this code still showing on your inverter's display?

What this code means

OV-TEM means 'over temperature.' When internal temperatures exceed safe limits, the inverter reduces output or shuts down. It is usually an installation-environment issue rather than a faulty inverter, and the unit resumes automatically once it cools.

What is this downtime costing you?

Rough estimate while your system isn't producing. Adjust the numbers to match your setup.

System size (kW) Peak sun hours / day Electricity rate ($/kWh)

–per day

–per week

–per 30 days

≈ – kWh of lost production per day.

Estimate only — assumes ~80% real-world output vs. nameplate. Actual losses depend on weather, shading, panel direction, and your tariff.

Common causes

Poor ventilation or blocked airflow around the inverter
Direct sunlight heating the unit in hot weather
Blocked heatsink or a failed cooling fan

Safe steps to try

Work top to bottom, ticking off each step as you complete it. 0 of 5 done.

Make sure nothing is stored against or covering the inverter and air can circulate freely around it
Check whether it sits in direct sun during the hottest part of the day — note this for your installer
Let it cool; it resumes automatically when temperatures drop
Do NOT spray water on it and do NOT open the casing
If it recurs on mild days, contact your installer

Is your inverter still under warranty?

Before paying for a repair, check — your installer may fix this free.

Brand Year installed

Based on typical standard warranty terms — always confirm with your warranty card or installer paperwork, as terms vary by model, region, and purchase date.

When to call an electrician

Call your installer if over-temperature faults happen repeatedly, especially in mild weather — the cooling fan, heatsink, or installation location may need professional attention.

Frequently asked questions

Will overheating damage my inverter?

It protects itself by derating or shutting down before damage occurs. But repeated overheating shortens component life, so fix the cause.

Can I cool it down myself?

Never spray water on it and never open the casing. Shade must come from proper placement or a sunshade installed by your installer — not a draped cover that blocks airflow.

Will the inverter warn me before shutting down?

Many Solis inverters derate (reduce output) first as temperatures climb, then shut down if it keeps rising. Repeated derating on hot afternoons is your cue to improve ventilation or shading.

Need a professional?

This fault may need professional diagnosis. Contact a qualified solar electrician in your area.

Sources: meaning and troubleshooting verified against the manufacturer's documentation — Solis S5-GR3P(3-13)K Three Phase Inverter User Manual (Ginlong Solis), Table 9.1