Solar Panel

[Dan Johnson]

I have a small solar panel that has the 12 volt adapter plug on it. I have an adapter wired into my DC panel, that is controlled by a switch on the panel. My question is, do I need the switch in the on position for the solar panel to charge my battery, or will the battery discharge into the panel if this switch is on. Conversely if the switch is off, will I be able to charge the battery at all. Dan 'Unruly Julie'

 

[Ed Schenck]

Switch on.

The switch is your path to charge the battery. This assumes that you have tested the "cigarette lighter" outlet and it really is connected to the battery through the switch.

 

[Paul]

Yes, on both counts

You need the switch on.The battery will discharge into your solar panel if the panel voltage is less than the battery voltage. So, turn it off in the dark if you think to do it.The good news is that it's a tiny amount of discharge. You can stop this with a diode, but the voltage drop across the diode wastes more energy than the discharge. Paul

 

[Dan Johnson]

Thanks for your help.Dan 'Unruly Julie'

 

[Bob]

Dan, Is your boat in Cali

Dan, Is your boat in california. I know of a hunter 260 in Carlyle, Il named "Unruly Juley".Just wondering if it is a coincedence.

 

[Dan Johnson]

BobYes, King Harbor is in Redondo Beach CA. I've had the boat since new May of '98. One of the few here in CA with the keel, diesel, and wheel steering. I was lucky, and got all the up grades I could during one of Hunters sales. Great boat, but I'm itching to move up!Dan 'Unruley Julie'