Need diode for solar panel

[Rich Lewis]

I know that if I'm going to leave my solar panel connected at night, that I need a diode to prevent the discharge of the batteries back into the solar panel. Although some panels come with them built in, not mine.Anybody have a line on a cheap but effective diode I could simply wire into the charging wire of the panel? I'm electrical dummy buit I know how to make a splice.

 

[Tim Welsh]

alternator shop

I just bought a postive and a negative diode from and alternator shop, they had to order them in from florida. I am using one of them to repair my battery charger. Also check with an electrical supply company. Like one that electricians go to. They should be able to get you one. You can find isolators through boat u.s.

 

[ross]

The diode you want

to use is called a schottky diode. Other types will work, but you will lose about 7-10% of your output current. A Schottky diode will lose 2-3%. If your panel is larger than 5-10 watts you should have a charge controller on it. The controller will disconnect it at night eliminating the need for a diode. You can get a 6 amp Morningstar marine rated controller for about $42.00. You can get a diode from radio shack for about $1.50. You can get a schottky diode from most solar panel suppliers for about $3-5.00. Do a web search for solar panels and start calling around, or email me and I can give you some sources.Ross