Things to Consider Before Buying Solar Cables for Your PV System

The art of stringing ZW Wires and cables in a PV system is highly complicated. From adjusting the voltage to measuring the current to be transferred, every aspect of wiring is highly essential when it comes to installing an effective and working solar panel at your home or office. 

Remember that the stakes are high. From not getting the right cables to not configuring the cables right, even the smallest of errors can lead to inefficiency, loss of power and can lead to certain safety hazards as well. So before you go ahead and install the solar panel, it is important that you make sure that you have the right solar cables at hand to set up the entire system.

So today in this article we are going to give you an overview of what solar cables are, what is their purpose in a solar system and which factors you need to consider in order to ensure that you have purchased the right solar cables for your system. So let us go ahead and look at these things in detail. 

What is a solar cable?

Solar cables are specifically designed cables designed to transfer DC solar energy from one component of the photovoltaic system to the other safely. These cables are manufactured to provide high mechanical strength that can withstand the indoor and outdoor harsh requirements of the PV system and the extreme weather conditions. 

Regular cables are unable to cater to the overheating effects of a solar panel which is why solar cables are designed to eliminate issues such as overheating, low efficiency, and longevity and power loss. Available in different sizes, lengths and flexibility volume, these cables are the key connecting elements of your solar panel. Without them, your system won’t be able to work efficiently. 

Purpose of a Solar Cable in a PV System 

Solar cables play the connectivity role in a PV system. After rigorous testing and authentication certifications, these cables are used to supply photovoltaic energy from the panels to the invertors and then to the power supply. There are used for both indoor and outdoor usage and are capable of withstanding 120 degrees of temperature making them sustainable for years to come. 

Things to Consider Before Buying Solar Cables for Your PV System

Buying the right cables for your system is highly essential. In order to make the best decision and choose the most suitable wires and cables for your PV system, here is a list of features that you need to consider before making the purchase. 

1. Type 

Similar to electrical wires, solar wires and cables come in different types as well. Each typo of cable is designed to cater to a certain function. You can find single wire cable, triple wire cable, or even a five wire cable as well. Multi-wired cables are likely to perform better, are more flexible and durable than single wire cables but then again it all depends on your needs.

Other than that, you can find a DC solar cable, a main DC solar cable and an AC connection solar cable. DC solar cables are constructed using copper wires, main DC solar cable is available as both single and two-core cables and AC connection cable are available in three and five core wires. The type you need depends on the type of system you have in place. 

2. Ratings 

All solar cable manufacturers have prepared a rating chart that indicates the number of amps (current) that can travel through the cable safely and accurately. The higher the amps, the higher the rating which means that you will experience lesser voltage drop and there will be less chances of overhearing. 

Make sure to check the amount of current that is to be transferred from one end to the other. Check for the amp ratings on the chart and choose a suitable wire accordingly. Low-rating cables overheat quickly thus lead to a number of safety hazards. 

3. Thickness

The thickness of the cable can be determines by its diameters. Thicker cables are known to handle more current and voltage as compared to thinner cables. Although you should get a cable with the thickness that matches your requirements but in case you are not sure, make sure to go with the thickest cable to ensure proper working of your solar panels. 

4. Length

Lastly, you need to make sure that you are getting the cable with the right length. Although the main focus is on safety when it comes to the length of the cable but other than that, the length also helps lower the voltage drop and ensure safe transmission of higher current. 

When working with solar panels at home, it is best to go with cables that are thicker and longer than required as they add extra flexibility to your system. You can securely place the cables were required and easily handle them with care without having to go through any hassle. 

Takeaways 

In a nutshell, if you keep these factors in mind along with the underlying safety precautions, you for sure can the most suited solar cables for your photoelectric system. In case you are finding it hard to figure out which cables would be best suited for you, then you should consult a professional in this regards.

Other than that, make sure to get cables from approved and certified manufacturers to ensure quality and safety. Check out ZW for premium quality solar cables. Go Url to check out their website. Be wise in making the decision and take your time, because your one mistake can damage your entire system.