I have been using a portable solar panel connected to my lead battery for 2 years now. I use it when on site to top up, and leave it standing outside the van. I read on Facebook that this is dangerous. Is it? What should I be using? Had a quick Google for some sort solar connection to o ring and couldn't see any thing?
So, is there a better way please?
I also use portable solar panels.
I've fitted longer cables to allow greater flexibility in siting it for maximum sunlight.
For connection to the van I've spliced into the battery cables with a shortish length of cable. The 2 lengths are joined by a 2 pin waterproof connector such as those used on electric lawn mowers.
Croc clips being 'dangerous' may have some rather tenuous validity in extreme circumstances, but generally they're OK!
Firstly, there MAY be a spark when connected/disconnected with battery, which MAY ignite hydrogen gas vented by the battery in SOME situations, but the risk is much the same as anyone connecting a battery charger or jump leads or any other 'temporary' connection, and how many times have you heard that go wrong! Secondly, the clips/connection MAY not be up to the current demand, and MAY overheat! That of course is making the assumption that your panel has a built in controller to manage the voltage/charge to the battery, otherwise an uncontrolled panel risks damaging the battery, but if you've be using it some time, I guess all is well on that point too.
As many suitcase/portable solar panels are supplied by the manufacturer with croc clips, then it would appear to be 'normal practice' to connect in that manner.
If I were regularly connecting a portable panel direct to battery, then I'd probably splice in a suitable socket to the battery cables, to both simplify the connection and give a more consistent connection.
Does anyone believe the BS sprouted on FB and other social media. There is nothing wrong with using crocodile clips as they are used in many different every day applications.
I use mower type connectors, the ones that only fit one way. The leads are wired to the controller which is under the caravan seat on the battery side.
The leads and connector extending out of the locker when attached to the panel leads and sit in the locker when not used.
I have a 100w renogy suitcase one. It has mc4 connectors so I bought some mc4 connectors which I fitted to short leads - one end clamped to battery the other end has the mc4 connector on.
Mc4 is what is on my leads now. So I have mc4 to crocodile clips to clamp to the battery. Which has worked fine......till I read Fabebook, and worried it wasn't safe! I thought I could get a large o ring to fit over the battery terminals and other end mc4. But all the O rings that I have seen are too small.
I guessed you clever lot that know a load more than myself might have a better way of doing this.
I am also going to up grade the battery soon and I am guessing that there will be less room in the box?
I am happy with the clips if it is indeed safe to do so.
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Topic: Crocodile clips on solar
via mobile 19/1/2025 at 11:54am
