Solar panel to controller circuit breaker sizing

tensch

Advanced Member
Joined
May 7, 2024
Messages
34
Per the suggestions from this board, I want to install a circuit breaker between the solar panels and the charge controller and I am wondering what size breaker I should use. My system.....2 Furrion 180w panels wired in series and a Victron 100/50 charge controller. I do hold out the possibility of adding a third 180w panel in the future.
Any suggestions and do's and don't's for installing the breaker are much appreciated.
 
Thank you. That's what i was thinking! I appreciate the response.
 
The size wiring determines the size of the breaker or fuse. That info can be found on one of the online charts. That said, you don't need a fuse or breaker between the panels and the controller on a small system. Worst case scenario for current in this case would be around 33 a (short circuit current for 3 panels). Well under the current rating for 10 awg or even 8 awg wiring. You should have a switch so you can shut the panels off though. You also definitely have to fuse the controller to battery wiring at the battery. A short in that wiring sends full battery current to ground.
 

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