Forum Discussion

theczar's avatar
theczar
Explorer
Jun 05, 2018

Disconnecting Batteries with Solar?

So I am new to solar. I noticed corrosion on one of my battery cables and want to remove and Clean it. I do not think I have an on/off switch on the solar charge controller. Is it OK to remove the Battery cable with Sun out and the charge controller on? If not, how should this be done? Thanks!
  • red31's avatar
    red31
    Explorer
    Jun 05, 2018
    disconnect one or both of the PV leads to the controller then disconnect the battery.
    reverse this upon reconnecting.
  • Ed_Gee's avatar
    Ed_Gee
    Explorer II
    Jun 05, 2018
    My Zamp solar charge controller may require a ‘re-boot’ if the battery is disconnected before the solar panel is disconnected. If no where to easily disconnect the solar panel, the suggestion to cover the panel with a light blocking blanket or sheet of plywood is good. .....or work at night....
  • ctilsie242's avatar
    ctilsie242
    Explorer II
    Jun 05, 2018
    I have read that you need to cover and disconnect the panels first. Both for safety, and for life of components.
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    Jun 05, 2018
    Some controllers may let out the magic blue smoke if there is no battery in the circuit. Better to disconnect the panels first.
  • 2oldman's avatar
    2oldman
    Explorer II
    Jun 05, 2018
    I would disconnect or cover the panels first. AGM batteries won't corrode anything.

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