Polycrystalline to monocrystalline connection?

[cynthia]

Is there any reason why I can't connect a 12v polycrystalline solar panel in parallel with my existing 12v monocrystalline panel in order to up the output to batteries? The plan would be for both inputs to go to the same charge controller due to wiring constraints.
Thanks

 

[boatmike]

Is there any reason why I can't connect a 12v polycrystalline solar panel in parallel with my existing 12v monocrystalline panel in order to up the output to batteries? The plan would be for both inputs to go to the same charge controller due to wiring constraints.
Thanks

Depends on the controller. If it is a multi-panel controller it will have more than one input and panels of different sizes/types can be fitted. The controller doesn't know what type or make of panel you have, just detects the incoming charge. I would not feel comfortable connecting them both to a single panel controller though as you would in effect be connecting them together. Even if they were the same, one may be in bright sun and the other in shade. In that case the charge from one would go to the other. Not sure what the result of that would be...

 

[ianfr]

I would have thought that as long as each has a diode protecting them from back charging there should be no problem. This is what I do on my boat with two non matching panels.

Ian

 

[cynthia]

Diode

Like the diode idea. Would one diode in each of the panels' positive output feed be sufficient or would it need a diode in each of the positive and negative feeds?
Thanks

 

[boatmike]

Some panels have a built in diode. Be careful though. Some don't and rely on the diode in the controller. That's why I asked if you have a multi panel controller. Most are capable of connecting more than one panel. Look at the connections!

 

[cynthia]

Checking connections

Appreciate the comment, but boat in Greece and controller old model, so no manuel online. We're just in to process of ordering a second panel to send out to the yard and ensuring that we will be able to connect them in parallel. Much more time consuming than anticipated!!

 

[cynthia]

Manuel

Bit of a Fawlty comment!

 

[vyv_cox]

Is there any reason why I can't connect a 12v polycrystalline solar panel in parallel with my existing 12v monocrystalline panel in order to up the output to batteries? The plan would be for both inputs to go to the same charge controller due to wiring constraints.
Thanks

I'm not quite sure of the terminology of the different types. I have had a Unisolar flexible (monocrystalline?) and a Sunware semi-flexible (polycrystalline ?) connected in parallel for years. Both had built-in diodes.

 

[MonniotC]

Towering problems.

no manuel online.

If there's no Manuel online, you'd better hope it doesn't go Fawlty.

Sorry!

Beaten