FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Is it safe to use aluminum solar cable?

A: No, aluminum conductors are not acceptable for PV DC cables under SANS 10142-1.

Q: How do I determine if i need to use 4mm or 6mm solar cable on my install?

A: It depends on the total distance from the solar panels to the inverter.

Q: How many MC4 connectors do i need?

A: 1 Set of male and female for each string of solar panels.

Q: What is DC electricity?

A: It stands for Direct Current which is a type of power that is produced by batteries and solar cells.

Q: What is the difference between AC and DC Electricity?

A: The difference is in electron flow direction. AC power reverses direction at regular intervals, whereas DC power flows steadily in one direction and powers electronics and battery operated appliances.

Q: What causes hot connections in solar protection devices like DC Disconnects, DC SPD's and fuses?

A: Loose terminals, improper crimping, undersized wires, incorrect fuse sizing to name a few.

Q: What is the standard fuse size you supply to protect panels?

A: We recommend a 20A fuse

Q: What happens if you have undersized wiring?

A: It can cause a hot connection. If the wire size is insufficient for the amperage flowing through it, the wire will act like a heating element.

Q: Why cant you use regular electrical cable for my solar panels?

A: Because PV wire has the necessary UV, ozone and moisture resistance for outdoor exposure.

Q: What are MC4 connectors?

A: They are standard weatherproof plugs connecting DC solar cables