Solar Question

[2012x19h]

Hi All!
The Renogy charge controller states to always connect the battery to the controller first - and then the panels. I am assuming that you would then have to disconnect the panels first before disconnecting the battery.
Does anybody know why that is?
And how do you guys handle that - for example when you have to take the batteries out for winter storage, or when you have to exchange the batteries? Do you install a switch in the panels-to-CC line, unscrew the positive terminal from the CC, or???

Thanks for any help with this!

[gypsmjim]

Yes, I installed a switch to facilitate easy removal. That's what the tech suggested at Renogy when I talked to him. However, I didn't ask "why".

Give them a call and they can clarify.

[Rustynuts]

Not sure for the reason but I would assume to power up the charger first before voltage comes in from the panels. Imounted mine with switches.

[2012x19h]

Thanks!
What's the voltage rating on those switches?
I could not find anything matching the 100V of the Rover CC.

[Mustang65]

The reason for the battery to be disconnected after the SOLAR panels are disconnected and connected prior to connecting the SOLAR panels is because the SOLAR charge controller is powered by the batteries. The charge controller needs to be up and running to protect from the voltage/power spikes when connecting/disconnecting the SOLAR panels.

Don

My Registry

RVing with SOLAR

[2012x19h]

Originally Posted by Mustang65

The reason for the battery to be disconnected after the SOLAR panels are disconnected and connected prior to connecting the SOLAR panels is because the SOLAR charge controller is powered by the batteries. The charge controller needs to be up and running to protect from the voltage/power spikes when connecting/disconnecting the SOLAR panels.

Don

My Registry

RVing with SOLAR

Thanks Mustang!
Now my question is this: Adding switches adds cost. And resistance to the wiring.
In the 8 years that I owned my TT, I have disconnected the batteries maybe twice? Does that justify disconnect switches, or would it be better to save a few bucks, have less chance of problems, and less resistance on a daily basis with straight wiring?
My thinking is that if I need to disconnect the battery, I can unscrew the positive terminal from the CC with a screw driver first - if that's needed only like every other year.
Am I missing something here?

[MichaelO]

Originally Posted by Rustynuts

Not sure for the reason but I would assume to power up the charger first before voltage comes in from the panels. Imounted mine with switches.

I understand the shut off switch between the panels and the controller, but I’m wondering why a switch between the controller and batteries.