Solar panel fuse size

[Miss Annabelle]

Hi i have a 320watt solar panel and wanted to know what size fuse would i need to the solar charge controller. Would it be a 30amp fuse ? Thank you.

 

[sunshine_eggo]

The label on the back of the panel lists the maximum fuse size.

 

[John Frum]

Hi i have a 320watt solar panel and wanted to know what size fuse would i need to the solar charge controller. Would it be a 30amp fuse ? Thank you.

You don't really need a fuse between the solar charge controller and a single panel.

 

[Zil]

The only need for one or two panels is cut off method, a switch or a plug, between the panel and charge controller. It is absolutely necessary to have a fuse at the battery positive terminal or BusBar. Follow rule number one; Fuses Protect Wires.

 

[OffGridInTheCity]

Hi i have a 320watt solar panel and wanted to know what size fuse would i need to the solar charge controller. Would it be a 30amp fuse ? Thank you.

I wouldn't think this would put out more than 10a - this will be listed on the panel itself. A 15a would most likely be adequate.

I agree a fuse is not really needed. I do circuit breakers (instead of fuses) near the charge controller so I can turn off incoming power to work on the charge controller. This doubles as a fuse but the primary reason is convenience to work on things.

Midnite Solar makes a range of (hi quality, UL listed) DC circuit breakers that mount on standard DIN rail like this - https://www.amazon.com/MidNite-Solar-MNEPV15-Midnite-Solar-MNEPV15/dp/B007IAAGPE/ref=sr_1_1

 

[PVorBust]

I agree with using breakers for convenience and that fuses serve little purpose.

Here's my thinking:
- if you select a fuse rating 'less' than Isc, you will blow the fuse when operating within normal spec.
- if you select a fuse rating 'higher' than Isc, even with a shorted cable or reverse connection to the SCC, the fuse won't blow.

So ... what benefit does the fuse (on the PV feed) offer?