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.

Growatt Inverter Error 116: Meaning, Causes & Safe Fix

Error 116 means the inverter failed reading from or writing to its EEPROM memory chip — where it stores settings and operating data. It needs professional attention.

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

EEPROM is the inverter's long-term memory, holding configuration and calibration data. Error 116 means the inverter cannot reliably read or write this memory, so it cannot operate safely and shuts down.

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

Memory chip failure
Control board fault
Data corruption — Growatt specifically asks whether the error appears in the morning, which can relate to low-light startup conditions

Safe steps to try

Work top to bottom, ticking off each step as you complete it. 0 of 4 done.

Note the exact time the error appears — Growatt specifically wants to know if it happens in the morning.
Perform one orderly restart: AC breaker off, DC switch off, wait 2–3 minutes, DC switch on, then AC breaker on.
If the error only appears in the morning and clears later, report your panel configuration to Growatt support, as their guide requests.
If it appears throughout the day, stop restarting and call for service.

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 or Growatt service if Error 116 persists after a restart or appears throughout the day — the control board likely needs replacement. Mention whether it appears only in the morning.

Frequently asked questions

Why does Growatt ask if it happens in the morning?

Their troubleshooting guide specifically flags morning-only occurrences — it can relate to low-light startup conditions interacting with stored settings. Reporting this helps them diagnose it.

Will I lose my inverter's settings?

The settings live on the failing memory chip, which is why the inverter stops. A service replacement restores normal operation, and your installer will reconfigure the new unit.

Can I reset the EEPROM myself?

No — this is board-level memory. The official remedy is control board replacement by qualified service.

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 — Troubleshooting for Growatt TL&MTL (Ver1.2) 2013-7-15, Growatt New Energy ('it means there is failure in reading or writing EEPROM')