Forum Discussion

Explorer

Oct 01, 2013

Disconnect Solar Before Checking Battery Levels?

I just installed a 140w solar panel and 10a PWM controller. I thought about it, but did not install an on/off switch anywhere in the “system”. The solar panel is connected directly to/from the controller; the controller is wired directly to/from the batteries (4 x 6v).

Should I pull one of the wires, or install a switch and cut the solar feed before checking the batteries water level? Sticking my face over those cells as I take off the caps, with current going to them, just doesn’t seem right.

Prior to the solar setup, I wasn’t concerned as I have an on/off switch for everything else connected to/from those batteries.

25 Replies

westend
Explorer
Oct 01, 2013
I put one of these 25 amp manual trip circuit breakers between the charge controller and the module. They have posts that will accommodate larger wire, I used 4 AWG.
Almot
Explorer III
Oct 01, 2013
The easy way - cardboard on the solar.
CVD
Explorer
Oct 01, 2013
Good point/idea. Yes, I do have a 30a fuse a few inches from the positive battery connection. I'll pull that before checking the battery water (and wear goggles).
time2roll
Nomad
Oct 01, 2013
Switch is OK but you should have a fuse close to the positive battery terminal.
Then just pull the fuse.

More important to wear eye protection and have clean water near if needed.
BFL13
Explorer II
Oct 01, 2013
It may be convenient on other occasions to not have the solar on. The controller is connected first to power up and then you connect the array.

So the switch should go in one of the array wires.