Series vs Parallel Solar Panel Wiring Basics – Volts, Amps, Cost & More Explained

I think I got it now

A few corrections.

On series arrays, solar panels >= 100W have bypass diodes so if a panel is shaded it just goes into bypass. The array can continue producing and (for the most part) only the shaded panel's output drops off. Where paralleling works better in some cases it is really only in situations where there is a lot of random shading happening on many panels.

On paralleling arrays, you can't just connect the positives together and the negatives together. You need to use a combiner box that individually fuses each source. Combiner boxes also typically have surge protection and a master breaker for convenient maintenance. Without the fuses, paralleling 3 or more panels introduces significant fire risk. And to be totally honest, its a good idea to us a combiner box even when paralleling just 2.

Branch connectors should never be used. They are popular, I know, but its a major failure point because people buy these things off of Amazon and they often do not have enough copper internally to work safely. People also put branch connectors up on the roof without any protection of any sort and they become hazards over time due to the MC4 tabs becoming brittle.

Even if you don't think you need a combiner box, get one anyway instead of using a branch connector. It also makes working on arrays easier because you have a convenient disconnect point that does not require disconnecting and reconnecting MC4 connectors (which also tends to result in broken MC4 tabs).

Generally speaking, higher voltages at lower currents are a whole lot more efficient than lower voltages at higher currents, so series is almost always the way to go. But paralleling does make sense in a few situations.

-Matt

Still confused 🤔

Good job!!!
That was a very coherent and easily discernible explanation! All that was missing was the best way to install 6 panels on top of a C class Winnebago!🤣
In all seriousness , great video!

Could you do a video wiring solar panels to delta pro 3 to get max watts, without going over the recommended voltage and amps?

In the bad old days, a shaded panel took down the entire series string. Pretty much all new panels have a bypass diode now that fixes this problem – shaded panels just get skipped and the rest continue producing power.

This is a very underrated channel.

Hooking up 2 in series/parallel together would be 30 A? You have three panels per series.

How lazy is that, the panels clearly say there 20V x 10A for 200W rated. But you made them 250W cause you used open circuit voltage😮‍💨.
You fuse regardless of array configuration, and you probably only need 1 rated for the final end point of array. The fuse protects your downstream equipment from the panel. If a panel outputs more than its rating, the damage is likely already done to the panel. and no fuse is going to reverse time on that.

You had me at “Because Science” that really made me laugh and loved it. 😂❤

Q: Best way to mount solar on large storage shed?