Solar Disconnect Switch

[MechGuy]

I’m thinking of installing a solar disconnect switch between my 400w single solar panel and my SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 controller to make it easier to change batteries or do other system work without having to cover up panels. Has anyone done this and if so which switch did you select? My boat is an RT 31 sedan with the MPPT controller mounted in the starboard cockpit locker. Thanks.

 

[80Ramey]

I’m thinking of installing a solar disconnect switch between my 400w single solar panel and my SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 controller to make it easier to change batteries or do other system work without having to cover up panels. Has anyone done this and if so which switch did you select? My boat is an RT 31 sedan with the MPPT controller mounted in the starboard cockpit locker. Thanks.

Not on my boat but I have done this on both my RV and portable “deployable” 200w panel. I used a resettable Blue sea circuit breaker. It gives circuit protection and acts as a switch.

 

[watson1987]

The 100/30 has the option to disable the output charge for maintenance with the app

Charger enabled
This setting enables or disables the battery charger. It is by default set to "enabled".
This setting can be used when work needs to be carried out on the installation. When this setting is disabled, the batteries will not be charged.

 

[MechGuy]

The 100/30 has the option to disable the output charge for maintenance with the app

I did not know this. Thanks! That will save me some time and money!

 

[LMRanger]

I’m thinking of installing a solar disconnect switch between my 400w single solar panel and my SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 controller to make it easier to change batteries or do other system work without having to cover up panels. Has anyone done this and if so which switch did you select? My boat is an RT 31 sedan with the MPPT controller mounted in the starboard cockpit locker. Thanks.

Throw a blanket over the panel and it stops making electricity

 

[4umfreak]

You're required have a breaker, or fuse between the panel and the charge controller. I just pull the fuse if I need to fiddle with it.

 

[scross]

There is a super simple solution for this. Install a resettable circuit breaker on the positive wire coming from the panel to the controller. Most panels will need 15 Amp breaker but check the specs on your panel to confirm. These breakers are small and very easy to install near the solar controller. In this photo the breaker is in the lower left corner and says GLOSO E69 15A. This one was $16 on Amazon.

 

[fidalgoisland]

I think the safest way to go is with a breaker switch. Here is my install and yes it is a big bulky breaker but I had room and it meets "code" requirements. The "code" part is up for debate on both RVs and Boats but better safe than sorry.

https://rb.gy/wieoqw

https://rb.gy/exbzw1

 

[MechGuy]

Thanks for all the great suggestions!

 

[ftornabe]

I threw a blanket over my solar panel and I still see a green light on solar control panel. But this light goes out at night. Other than installing a shutoff switch how do I deactivate the solar panel?