Solar isolator switch?

[KevinV]

I want to fit an isolator switch for the solar panel - it seems like a good idea, rather than having to disconnect the wires every time there's something to do downstream.

My question is - is a single pole switch (ie just the positive) okay? I could fit it neatly on the switch panel, whereas double pole switches are rather clunky, and overkill on my little boat with a single 50W panel. I was thinking of just using a relabelled battery switch as a neat and cost-effective solution - it also means I can remove the key as a reminder.

 

[Buck Turgidson]

50W panel. Just throw a towel over it!

 

[KevinV]

50W panel. Just throw a towel over it!

Knowing my luck it'll blow off!

 

[Refueler]

Shouldn't be a problem ....

Only factor to be aware of - its generally advised to disconnect upstream of controller - the solar panel from controller..... with battery still connected to controller .... then battery disconnected if needed.

Well it is according to many installation manuals I've had in hand ... battery connect first - then solar .... disconnect solar - then battery.

 

[KevinV]

Shouldn't be a problem ....

Only factor to be aware of - its generally advised to disconnect upstream of controller - the solar panel from controller..... with battery still connected to controller .... then battery disconnected if needed.

Well it is according to many installation manuals I've had in hand ... battery connect first - then solar .... disconnect solar - then battery.

Exactly why I want to put a switch in - to go between the panel and the controller
I just want to know whether I need to switch both poles. I can't see why, but solar controllers work on black magic, so I thought I'd check

 

[Refueler]

Exactly why I want to put a switch in - to go between the panel and the controller
I just want to know whether I need to switch both poles. I can't see why, but solar controllers work on black magic, so I thought I'd check

Its DC ... so one pole should be enough .... I would choose +ve personally ...

 

[KevinV]

Its DC ... so one pole should be enough .... I would choose +ve personally ...

Great, that confirms what I thought. Thank you.

 

[chris-s]

We have a little dc breaker between panels and controller. Serves as fuse and isolation switch.

 

[Sandy]

An inline blade fuse.