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What is a solar isolator?

A switch that disconnects the solar array from the controller so you can work safely. Panels make power whenever there is light, so you isolate them rather than turn them off.

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Why it matters

Panels make power whenever there is light — you cannot simply switch them off. A solar isolator lets you safely disconnect the array from the controller before working on it.

Where it fits in your system

It sits between the solar array and the charge controller (MPPT), so the controller and downstream wiring can be worked on with the panels isolated.

How Wattonomy handles it

Design your van, boat, cabin or RV system in Wattonomy and it includes a solar isolator between the array and the controller on the wiring diagram so the PV side can be worked on safely — from the appliances you actually run, sized to the recognized standard for your region. You see it on the wiring diagram, in the sized parts list, and in a plain-English build pack that explains the reasoning behind every choice. No account, no email — about a minute to a complete, validated design.

Questions

Why isolate solar panels instead of turning them off?

Because a panel produces voltage any time light hits it — there is no off switch. An isolator physically disconnects the array so you can work safely.

Where does the solar isolator go?

Between the solar array and the MPPT charge controller, so you can break the PV circuit without touching live panels.

Design your system — free

It takes about a minute. No account, no email.