mark
New Member
Posts: 4 
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Post by mark on Nov 13, 2015 17:03:55 GMT -8
Right now I have two 100 watt panels, connected in parallel, using 12 gauge wire down to the controller and then to the batteries. I want to add two more panels for a total of 400 watts. I guess what I am asking is that the ratings on the panels are for optimal conditions, 100 watt / 18.9v = 5.29 amps per panel. Living in PA with 400 watts of panels connected in parallel, do I really need to upgrade the cable from the two panels too 10 gauge when I add the additional panels. the run from the panels is about 12 feet.
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Post by Admin on Nov 14, 2015 12:51:46 GMT -8
Hi Mark!
I would definitely recommend converting to 10AWG if you want to upgrade to a total of 400 watts.
Here's why:
Depending on what type cable it may be, 12 AWG can support up to 25 amps of current.
As a safety rating for AWG sizes, we take 5.29 x4 panels = 21.16 amps.
Panels have the ability to overperform, so we use a factor of safety 21.16 x 1.25= 26.45Amps. So now this goes over the 12 AWG rating.
10 AWG can usually support 30-35 amps (again depending on the cable type) and will definitely support the max current of 26.45 amps.
I hope this explains the recommendation.
Please let me know if you need any further assistance.
Kind Regards,
Austin Walti
Renogy Technical Support Team
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Post by tabber on Nov 29, 2015 16:11:31 GMT -8
Also isn't about power loss due to wire resistance? This website < www.freesunpower.com/wire_calc.php > has an online wire guage calculator that helps determine what is needed in solar setups. Check it out. |
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