diy solar

diy solar

Wire size needed

Colemoney

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Joined
Dec 20, 2021
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I've gotten mixed results from the online calculators so hoping someone can help. I have 3 of the 200 watt, 12v solar panels and would run in series. The panels are located 30ft away from SCC. End result would be around 60v and 10amps. Seeing what wire to use?
 
Assuming the panels all have MC4 connectors.... I would buy an MC4 extension cable and cut it in half. Connectors to the panels, cut end to the controller. Plug and play. #12 wire is fine but very common to go with #10 for a very small premium. #8 is somewhat available but I would consider that excessive.

Is there something else to consider?
 
MC4 connectors are designed for 10, 12 & 14AWG wire as far as I know. If its only 30 feet and 10 amps, go with with 10AWG wire. The voltage drop would be less than 1% according to Southwire VD calculator. I estimated 90V DC for 3 x 200W panels in series.
 
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