Solar disconnect switch

[Louisfarm]

I would like to disconnect the solar power before it goes into the mppt controller. Its a 12 v system. Every switch I've seen for sale states a battery disconnect but nothing regarding a disconnect from panels to controller
Has anyone done this and if so what part did you use?

[sdelam]

I have something similar to this on the positive cables on both sides of the controller (Pv in and Bv out). they can be used as switches when needed. You may know this but some controllers (Renogy for sure) require the panels to be disconnected prior to removing the battery source. As in when replacing batteries for example.

https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-30...xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

[boondocking]

Originally Posted by sdelam

I have something similar to this on the positive cables on both sides of the controller (Pv in and Bv out). they can be used as switches when needed. You may know this but some controllers (Renogy for sure) require the panels to be disconnected prior to removing the battery source. As in when replacing batteries for example.

https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-30...xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

That's a good choice or one of these.

[corn18]

I just used a battery disconnect switch. I bought a few other types first but the connectors on them were garbage and not made for heavier gauge wire.

And being able to turn off the panels is very important. To you and the solar charge controller (SCC). SCCs do not like to have the panels connected first. They have a tough time deciding what to do with all that voltage as they wake up, so sometimes they let the magic blue smoke out of their brains. If you connect to battery power first, they can be ready for the PV power when it comes.

It's important for you if you have larger arrays. I can tell you that 48V @ 9A can be felt, but won't make you cry. 150V @ 20A will. Treat PV wires as you would household 120V wires.

[rk06382]

Originally Posted by Louisfarm

I would like to disconnect the solar power before it goes into the mppt controller. Its a 12 v system. Every switch I've seen for sale states a battery disconnect but nothing regarding a disconnect from panels to controller
Has anyone done this and if so what part did you use?

I installed a 60 Amp inline Circuit Breaker from the solar array to input of the Victron MPPT & the output to the batteries. (as/per Victron recommendations).

Note: the picture below was taken before I upgraded the battery side from (green) 50a to (blue) 60a.