Roof J-box for solar - what splicer?
Need some education. Getting all the pieces. Have a 4*2" waterproof PVC combiner box, will run AWG 12 from panels in box, and AWG 8 out to controller. Will use mechanical splicers, for lack of experie...
Forum Discussion
smkettner wrote:
The shrink will go down to at least #10 probably 12/14. I assume you have #8 in one end and 2x #12 in the other so I think it would be fine.
Shrink should last years (10+?) in the sun.... and I thought you were committed to the box to prevent roof water intrusion.
No, it's a series connection, so 1x #12 in one end of splicer and 1x #8 in another. 2 splicers total, one for Pos and one for Neg wire.
Yes, using a J-box to cover big hole in the roof was the plan initially, but after measuring I think to run the #8 via fridge vent. Then J-box becomes almost unnecessary - it would contain 2 splicers, 2 wires #12 go in the box, 2 wires #8 - out.
Alternatively, there is a solution Fridge vent box from AM solar that kind of eliminates the roof box. It's mounted on the side wall of the vent grill, under the vent cover. Overpriced and bulky, doesn't fit well under the cover. Material looks like nylon, not even PVC, but at this location warping/waterproof issue is not important.
Member "Sleepy" used it, note the bulge on the vent cover:
