Splicing AWG 6 to AWG 12?
I figured out that by running AWG 6 right from the panel, instead of existing AWG 12, the power losses will be cut in half. Only don't know what is the best way to splice #12 to #6 without junction b...
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After some thinking I settled for a compromise. One panel will have 12 -> 6 splice in small terminal block in weatherproof "conduit body" clipped to the panel leg. Conduit body looks like a junction box only smaller. Another panel will have same 12 -> 6 splice but in real junction box. Either one can be opened, inspected, disconnected if needed etc. Total wattage loss from panels to battery 2% during peak hours of the best summer day not including the joints resistance which is difficult to estimate. During non-peak hours and non-perfect conditions - lower losses.
Yes, going one gauge up doesn't change much, on a short cable. If you use voltage sensor wire to battery, it all boils down to lost watts and amp-hours. When losses on a short 2ft section are, say, 0.3% with #6 cable and you reduce the loss in this particular section to 0.2% by going to #4 cable, and you collect 100 AH daily, then you gain the whole 0.1 AH a day :)
Yes, going one gauge up doesn't change much, on a short cable. If you use voltage sensor wire to battery, it all boils down to lost watts and amp-hours. When losses on a short 2ft section are, say, 0.3% with #6 cable and you reduce the loss in this particular section to 0.2% by going to #4 cable, and you collect 100 AH daily, then you gain the whole 0.1 AH a day :)
