Mod: Solar Disconnect Switch
DETAILS: Solar Disconnect Switch
With factory installed solar, there is no way to turn off (or disconnect) the solar other than climbing on the roof and unplugging the panel(s) from the port.
There are several instances when I’ve wanted to disconnect my solar, including when working on (or replacing) the house batteries, during other electrical projects, and most commonly, to stop the buzzing sound in my speakers when listening to music on the house radio during the mid-day sun.
Location
I installed this in my control center (above the refrigerator) on the positive wire of my Zamp solar controller. I use the circuit breaker as an on/off switch (see photos that depict both the on/closed and off/open positions).
Circuit Breaker Amperage
I found that these made-in-China breakers trip at a lower amperage than their stated rating. As such, I don’t recommend the 30 amp version even though this is the obvious choice. Since there are in-line fuses already installed in the OEM solar system, it isn’t necessary to have this “switch” function like a breaker, so I’d recommend at least the 50 or 60 amp version based on experience with my 510w of solar. If you have less solar, a 40 amp circuit should be fine, though there is no harm in going “bigger” in this application. I’m currently using the 100 amp version after having issues with the lower amperage variations. What you don’t want is your solar controller turning itself off unintentionally when you least expect it.
Installation
To install, first go up on the roof and disconnect your solar (or do this mod after sunset). Then, remove the Zamp Solar Charge Controller via the two screws. Locate the positive wire (coming down from the roof) that connects to the back of the Zamp controller on the positive terminal — this is the wire that you’ll be interrupting via the new circuit/switch.
Next, you’ll need to cut the positive wire in a place that will allow the necessary amount of slack to install the breaker as pictured. Measure twice, cut once! The powered side of the wire (coming from the roof) will go in the top section of the breaker (as pictured). The other end of the positive wire (that is still connected to the back of the controller) will connect to the bottom of the breaker (as pictured).
You’ll need to drill two holes large enough for the wire to come through the thin wood paneling. I used rubber grommets in those holes for a clean install. Use two small screws to mount the breaker to the wood paneling.
Last but not least, plug your solar panels back in on the roof and then test the switch.
100 amp Circuit Breaker: www.amazon.com/dp/B01LW1C0DX
Rubber Grommet Set: www.amazon.com/dp/B002X4AFL0
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