How do i fix an Old rusty inverter

quique · May 2013

I have a couple of inverters that have been stored in a humid climate for about 2 years. Some parts like cable-terminal connections look rusted.

What if anything can I do to restore them to working order?

KnowledgeSponge · May 2013

Re: How do i fix an Old rusty inverter

I doubt there is much you really can do.

I think with electronics and long term storage, "prevention" is the "cure".
You'd need to store stuff like that in a dry cool environment or at the very least sealed in air tight containers / bags with desiccant.

But others might have more. Sry.

quique · May 2013

Re: How do i fix an Old rusty inverter

Thx, yes I agree, prevention is key

Cariboocoot · May 2013

Re: How do i fix an Old rusty inverter

Got any pictures? Salvageability will depend largely on how severe and extensive the corrosion is.

At some point there is a limit between how much time/effort/money you sink into trying to resurrect and old piece of equipment and replacing it with new. Some of that will depend on just what the old one was too: a "no name" MSW inverter isn't worth much effort when you see how inexpensive a new one is.

westbranch · May 2013

Re: How do i fix an Old rusty inverter

have you looked under the covers? if there is a 'bit of rust' on the outside, you never know what the inside looks like?

redwire · May 2013

Re: How do i fix an Old rusty inverter

Did you try cleaning off the terminals? How did that go?

And like "westbranch" said, you want to open it up and see how bad things are inside. A lot of the older inverters use large components instead of surface mount ICs and can stand a little corrosion and are easier to clean. Some have conformal coatings sprayed on to prevent any corrosion.

Generally, you can use pure 100% alcohol to clean a circuit board. You want to spot clean if you can.

How do i fix an Old rusty inverter

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