Fuse or Breaker

mwilsonnm
mwilsonnm Solar Expert Posts: 26 ✭
in Solar Beginners Corner #1
Hello,
When installing dc disconnects between the array and controller or the batteries and dc distribution panel does it make any difference (as far as safety is concerned) whether you use a fuse or breaker configuration? Thanks, Mark
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  • mike95490
    mike95490 Solar Expert Posts: 9,583 ✭✭✭✭✭
    #2
    Re: Fuse or Breaker

    It depends on you access. If easy to access, a replaceable fuse would be OK.

    In a rooftop PV string, where PV shorts are RARE, I'd use a fuse. (with anti-oxi grease)

    Just my 2 cents worth


    Fuse notes - run fuses at 80% or less, of "blow" rating, otherwise, they are subject to random failures.
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  • niel
    niel Solar Expert Posts: 10,300 ✭✭✭✭
    #3
    Re: Fuse or Breaker

    no difference except the breaker is more like a switch that can be flipped back to be reused at a higher price than its fuse counterpart.
    as far as accessibility goes it should be within easy reach at all times of the year so fuses/circuit breakers and disconnects should not be going onto a roof that needs ladders or weather cooperation to gain access to it.
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