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CliveJL's avatar
CliveJL
Copper Contributor
Feb 18, 2025

Power Pivot Tables not Refreshing

I have a problem with Power Pivot in Excel. When I try to refresh the table it hangs and never completes. It was working fine yesterday. 

I have tried the following:

1. Check for Data Source Issues

  • Ensure that the source data is accessible and hasn't changed (e.g., moved, renamed, or permissions altered).

2. Check for Large Data Volume or Memory Limit

  • Try refreshing a smaller dataset first (e.g., filter down data in the source before loading).

3. Restart Excel & Try Again

  • Close Excel completely (including any background processes in Task Manager) and reopen it.
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  • Kidd_Ip's avatar
    Kidd_Ip
    MVP
    Feb 19, 2025

    Take this:

     

    • Check Power Query Dependencies: If your data is being pulled in using Power Query, make sure there are no changes or issues in the queries that could be causing the refresh to hang.
    • Review Relationships and Calculations: Complex relationships and calculated columns/measures can sometimes cause refresh issues. Check for any new relationships or complex calculations added recently.
    • Remove and Re-add Data Source: Try removing the data source from your Power Pivot model and then re-adding it. This can help resolve issues related to corrupt connections.
    • Check for Circular References: Ensure there are no circular references in your data model, as they can cause refresh issues.
    • Increase Excel Memory Allocation: If you are working with large datasets, consider increasing the memory allocation for Excel. This can be done in the Power Pivot settings under "Advanced Options."
    • Disable Automatic Calculation: Temporarily set Excel to manual calculation mode before refreshing Power Pivot. This can help isolate the issue if it's related to complex calculations:
      • Go to the "Formulas" tab.
      • Click on "Calculation Options."
      • Select "Manual."
    • Clear Cache: Clear the cache for Power Pivot to ensure there are no residual data causing the issue:
      • Open the Power Pivot window.
      • Go to "File" > "Clear Cache."
    • Check Event Viewer Logs: Look for any error messages or warnings in the Windows Event Viewer logs that might provide more insight into the issue.
    • Update Excel and Add-ins: Ensure your Excel and any related add-ins are up to date. Updates can sometimes fix bugs that cause issues with Power Pivot.
    • Try a Different Machine: If possible, try refreshing the Power Pivot model on a different machine to rule out any local issues.

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