DC breaker for solar??
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Forum Name: I need HELP!!!
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URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13477
Printed Date: 14 May 2025 at 2:15am
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Topic: DC breaker for solar??
Posted By: Pod People
Subject: DC breaker for solar??
Date Posted: 08 Apr 2020 at 9:02am
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I read in an earlier forum post that I needed a DC breaker
between the solar panel and the charge controller to eliminate arching when
connecting or disconnecting. I have a Renogy 100 watt suitcase panel with a 20 amp PWM controller connected to 2 6volt GC batteries. If needed, would this breaker work? Should I use a 20 or 30 amp unit? https://www.amazon.com/Tocas-Surface-Mount-Circuit-Breakers-Waterproof/dp/B07D7T3ZR5?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_3&th=1 - https://www.amazon.com/Tocas-Surface-Mount-Circuit-Breakers-Waterproof/dp/B07D7T3ZR5?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_3&th=1 It seems that this unit works both as a circuit breaker and also as a switch that could be used to turn off the power generated by the panel so connections could be made without arching. Once everything is connected, then it could be switched on to allow power from the panel to the charge controller. Am I understanding this concept correctly? Thank you for any suggestions or comments Vann ------------- Vann & Laura 2015 RPod 179 https://postimg.cc/0zwKrfB9"> 
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Replies:
Posted By: podwerkz
Date Posted: 08 Apr 2020 at 10:04am
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You don't need that circuit breaker, its overkill for your situation. Just face the portable panel away from strong sunlight when connecting or disconnecting. You can toss a dark blanket over it, a big piece of cardboard, lean it against the trailer, or lay it flat on the ground or grass, and that will reduce the panel output to essentially nothing, so no arcing will occur. Obviously connecting or disconnecting at night, there is no power being produced by the panel so again, no arcing will occur. ------------- r･pod 171 gone but not forgotten! |
Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 08 Apr 2020 at 10:10am
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+1. The simple solutions are generally the best.
------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: offgrid
Date Posted: 08 Apr 2020 at 12:51pm
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You don’t need a breaker for arcing while connecting the solar module, that won’t hurt anything at 12v, but you should have a breaker or fuse at the battery to protect the wiring to you solar system from overcurrent due to short circuits, just like you have circuit breakers in your house for the same purpose. The battery is easily able to produce enough current to melt the insulation off even large size conductors. 20A is fine. ------------- 1994 Chinook Concourse 1995 RV6A Experimental Aircraft 2015 Rpod 179 - sold |
Posted By: Pod People
Date Posted: 08 Apr 2020 at 2:33pm
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Thanks for the responses-glad to know that I was overthinking this issue. I do have a 20 amp fuse between the controller and the batteries. Thanks Vann ------------- Vann & Laura 2015 RPod 179 https://postimg.cc/0zwKrfB9">
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