Solar Panel Question

[Bobby P.]

When on the hard, with everything off, is the solar panel on? Do I have to turn on the inverter to have the solar panel working?

I'm hoping I can keep the batteries topped off, even when not plugged into shore power.

Thanks,
Bobby

 

[ixlr8]

This is what I did last season. When I left the boat, all switches were turned off, solar on, no shore power and everything was fine. Just check the solar panel controller to make sure it is putting out power and the batteries are being monitored before you leave the boat. On my boat, I check the solar controller panel when I turn off the House and Engine main switches.

 

[chronicity]

The solar panel is doing its work whether or not you are on shore power. The inverter does not need to be on and should be off unless you need 110 in the boat. The solar panels should keep the batteries topped off when on the hard. You will want to make sure the refrigerators are not powered and that their doors are propped open to prevent mold.

I'm not sure there is even any way to keep the solar panels from charging the batteries other than to disconnect the wires (or the battery cables).

 

[Bobby P.]

Thank you both. This is good to know.
Bobby

 

[knotflying]

I'm not sure there is even any way to keep the solar panels from charging the batteries other than to disconnect the wires (or the battery cables).

There should be a 30 amp fuse in the lead from the controller to the battery. I have also added a fuse from the solar panel feed to the controller. This fuse makes it handy in the event you need to reset the controller. Much easier than disconnecting the wires.