Are u expanding your solar system and stuck with diff type of solar plates. Do you have mismatched solar panels and want to know how to wire them together? Are you confused in parallel or Series connections?
Yes, you can add panels of different wattages but it is not recommended. The sole reason is that it will reduce the efficiency of power output. Different wattage panels have different voltage and amps outputs. The system always favors the lowest voltage or amp, which puts the larger panel on the backburner. This, in turn, reduces the overall efficiency and power output of your solar panel array.
For every problem there is a solution you just have to be at the right place and with right people.
This guide will show you how to mix different solar panels together. We will also explain about series and parallel connections.
Series Vs Parallel Connection
Wiring Solar Panels In Series
Definition: This method adds the voltages of the solar panels together while keeping the current same.
How to Connect Panels in Series
Connect positive of one plate with negative of other plate.
Disadvantage: If one panel goes in shade or gets faulty, whole system gets affected.
Example:
- Two solar panels are 20 volts and 5 amps each.
- When connected in series, we get 40 volts and 5 amps.
Usage: When panels have the same current but different voltage.
Wiring Solar Panel in Parallel
Definition: In this setup, the current from each panel is added together, but the voltage remains the same.
How to Connect Panels in Parallel
Connect all of the positive wires together. Do the same with the negative wires. Be sure that you are using the right wires before connecting the panels.
When you connect solar panels in parallel, the amps (current) increase but the voltage doesn’t.
Disadvantages of Wiring in Parallel
A parallel setup is costly on wires. They require heavier wire to handle the higher current. You also need more wire to make all the connections.
Example:
- Two solar panels are 20 volts and 5 amps each.
- When connected in parallel, we get 20 volts at 10 amps.
Usage: When panels have the same voltage but different current.
How to Mix Three Different Types of Panels
What if u have three solar panels with different voltage and current ratings. Seems like a difficult scenario. But we have solution and guidance for every possibility.
Lets calculate their combined power output in two scenarios, when wired in series and when wired in parallel. After calculation we will decide that which is the best option to connect them, parallel or series!
- 3 x different Panels:
- Panel 1: 20 volts, 5 amps, 100 watts.
- Panel 2: 22 volts, 4 amps, 88 watts.
- Panel 3: 18 volts, 6 amps, 108 watts.
- Series Connection:
- Calculation: Add voltages and use the lowest current.
- Result: (20V + 22V + 18V) × 4A = 240 watts.
- Parallel Connection:
- Calculation: Add currents and use the lowest voltage.
- Result: (5A + 4A + 6A) × 18V = 270 watts.
- Best Option: Parallel wiring is more efficient in this scenario.
Keep in mind that when wiring in parallel, the current increases, so you need a thicker wire. If you have several panels laying around and want to connect them to one charge controller, try doing these calculations and see which one is best.
When there are substantial voltage and current differences between panels, Use separate Charge Controllers to avoid high losses.
Hybrid Connection
If we have two set of panels with different watts, than we can have a Hybrid Connection to get maximum output with less losses.
Example:
- Two 50-watt panels and one 100-watt panel.
- Combine two smaller panels in series: 20 volts, 5 amps (same as the bigger panel).
- Connect these in parallel: 20 volts, 10 amps, totaling 200 watts.
Considerations for Wiring Mismatched Panels
- Thicker Wires: Required when wiring in parallel due to increased current.
- Multiple Charge Controllers: Recommended when there are substantial voltage and current differences between panels.
Conclusion
When you have mismatched solar panels, it is important to have a better wiring method. It’s a crucial decision, as it will depend to maximize efficiency and output. By calculating and comparing series and parallel connections, you can make an informed decision on how to wire your solar panels effectively.
