I'm a newbie to solar and been researching. I finally hooked up and ran a full-size Samsung fridge on the Ecoflow Delta 2 with the extra battery attached to four, 100-watt panels in series/parallel. Panels get 6 hours of direct sun then shade (trees). Thinking of adding panels to another area that gets additional sun in the afternoon. Not sure how do do this. I ran the fridge for 24 hours on the charge with 3 hours / 22% remaining on the batteries the next morning. The following day was overcast and had to charge it via the home AC outlet. I'm learning. Suggestion’s welcomed.
Up and Running. Advice Needed for Overcast Days
- Thread starter SeaBear
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sunshine_eggo
Happy Breffast!
Assuming 2S2P based on your description.
You could simply parallel additional 2SxP arrays of same-voltage panels in other sunny locations.
You could simply parallel additional 2SxP arrays of same-voltage panels in other sunny locations.
efficientPV
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My fridge can operate on overcast skies for days and has a third of your battery. I do have a lot of panels because a large number are shaded at any time. A second set like east facing is a great idea to get more power generated thru the day instead of more battery and producing power in just one period.
Thank you @sunshine_eggo and @efficientPV. Yes, two in series then those into parallel. By me adding another two panels in S+P to sunny areas, how do I connect them to my current wiring configuation from current panels to the battery? Will I be using a parallel split Y cord?
efficientPV
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It is tempting to use MC4 Y connectors. Just be aware that many of these cheap ones can't handle the rated current. When you start stacking them up, you might find it melting in a year. Stay under half the current.
Gotya, thanks.
Tomthumb62
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So is there not ANY quality Y connector that can handle the rated current? Or is the only viable option a combiner box?
Perhaps one could have spare Y connectors on hand and just replace them on a schedule. I’m speaking of my own application here as I don’t wish to install a big box onto the roof of our camp trailer for several reasons.
efficientPV
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I have never used one, just seen videos of MC4 connectors that have burned up and can not make recommendations. 30A on this type of mechanical connection is a stretch. With only 4 panels your current will be low <50% of rating of connectors.
sunshine_eggo
Happy Breffast!
Given the panels your using, I don't share the sentiment that MC4 branch connectors are inadequate. They're rated for 30A, and that can handle about 5 of your panels in parallel.
zanydroid
Solar Wizard
I think if you get authentic MC4 Y connectors on #10 conductors from a solar tradehouse it should be fine.
If you buy generic MC4 Y connectors from Amazon, good luck
If you buy generic MC4 Y connectors from Amazon, good luck
Tomthumb62
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Ah okay. I have 10AWG wires and the 4-way y connectors won’t ever see more than 22A
Tomthumb62
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Not OP but I appreciate the comment. I’m using 4x100W panels into 4-way Y connectors. All PV wires are 10AWG except I think two of the panel’s short leads are 12awg. So no more than about 20A will ever go through those Y connectors.
After reading my current panel date sheets I see that I can go to 500 watts max on the EFD2. My current wired: first two in series, second two in parallel. When I get the two additional panels that will put me at 600 watts, 6 panels @100 watts. I'll wire those in parallel adding to my cables? And using the MC4 parallel connectors and being mindfull of these connectors. I'm guessing that being wired in combo will reduce wattage while keeping under 60 volts, correct?
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