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I have bought this solar charger (Epsolar-LS0512E): https://www.manualslib.com/manual/970886/Epsolar-Ls0512.html#manual a 12 Volt Sealed Lead Acid battery, and I use this solar panel:

Voltage: 12V Peak Power: 40 W Number of Cell: 36 Pcs Short Circuit Current (Isc): 2.47 A Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.82 V Maximum Power Current (Imp): 2.27 A Maximum PowerVoltage (Vmp): 17.6 V

I want to supply a load, and by reading the solar charger manual it says to use fuses. I use special cable (4mm) for DC current from solar panel to the solar charger. My question is what fuses should I use? Is there any special fuses for PV? Should I take care of something else? It is the 1st time I use PV and I don't know how to proceed...

Thank you!

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Size the fuses to the slightly more than max of what the controller can provide.

The datasheet recommends this:

It is recommended that no less than 2 times rated current fuse is connected with battery and load.

This would give the design protection from short circuits.

The battery can support 5A so I'd use a 10A fuse. There is no rating for the load, so I would assume that 5A max for the load would be good (since that's what the battery can supply.) Use a 10A fuse there also and don't go over 5A for the load. I use car fuses (and holders) for my solar projects, they are available at auto parts stores.

Source: https://midsummerenergy.co.uk/pdfs/ep5a.pdf

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  • \$\begingroup\$ It doesn't matter that the solar panel can give Maximum Power Current (Imp): 2.27 A? So, to use 2*2.27A around 5 A?? \$\endgroup\$
    – 5Volts
    Commented Aug 19, 2019 at 20:47
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    \$\begingroup\$ Yeah, but the solar panel can source more volts, so the power needs to be considered. I'd go with 10A fuses \$\endgroup\$
    – Voltage Spike ♦
    Commented Aug 19, 2019 at 20:50
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    \$\begingroup\$ delcity.net/store/Fuse-Holders-with-LED-Warning-Light/… \$\endgroup\$
    – Voltage Spike ♦
    Commented Aug 19, 2019 at 20:57
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    \$\begingroup\$ Something like that, google fuse holder and find one you like \$\endgroup\$
    – Voltage Spike ♦
    Commented Aug 19, 2019 at 20:57
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    \$\begingroup\$ You don't need specific fuses... automotive fuses will work for the voltages you have \$\endgroup\$
    – Voltage Spike ♦
    Commented Aug 19, 2019 at 20:58

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