Disconnecting Solar Panels Under Load

In this next video installment in the solar basics series we will take a look at connectors.

Disconnecting solar panels under load.

Can be installed on a new system or retrofitted on any exi. Troubleshooting a solar pv system below i will describe basic steps in troubleshooting a pv array. 146 a 0 80 182 5 amps to find out more about sizing a disconnect switch check out this article from home power solar electricity basics to look at our available disconnect switches we. The ac disconnect may be a breaker on a service panel or it may be a stand alone switch.

A dc disconnect shuts off the current from the panels to the inverter. In a solar pv system the ac disconnect is usually mounted to the wall between the inverter and utility meter. A tested and approved safety device which removes all lethal dc volts from any solar installation. Applying the factor by dividing the maximum power point current by the factor will show how the disconnect switch should be rated under normal conditions.

Common issues are zero power and low voltage output. Step 4 cover the ends of each wire with electrical tape a plastic bag or a rubber terminal cover to prevent physical contact should the wires become live. Often overlooked connectors are important to maintaining relia. Quality solar panels are built and guaranteed to produce power for 25 years for that reason it s most likely that a problem is caused by a defect in system.

This article describes how you can troubleshoot a solar system in basic steps. Utility companies may also utilize the solar disconnect when performing maintenance or other repairs to nearby power lines. Some larger systems use a solar power disconnect switch for added safety in case one of the solar panels gets exposed to light during maintenance.