Connecting different panels in sizes and locations in parallel

[VictorAdebayo]

Dear Forum. Is it ok to connect different sizes of panels but same voltage(12volt and different wattages) facing different directions together in parallel? I have a 150 watts 12 volt panel (mono) mounted in front and 30 watts but 12 volt (not mono) panel at back of the house. Can I connect them together to increase the amperage? The cables are drawn in and can be joined together at the charge controller. I actually have two separate charge controllers. One is 40 amp while the other is 20 amp. I want to see if joining the two panels will bring up the amperage for my 200ah gel Battery's charging. We are in a very sunny location. Sun runs from morning till around 5 pm at this period. I use a 40a Sunmate Solar Controller.Thank you.

 

[Bluejets]

Turn off your caps lock.

 

[Frankchie]

I don't have any significant knowledge of solar panels, but since no one has responded I'll try to help.

I think the safest way to connect dissimilar solar panels in parallel it to add a blocking diode to each one. That way it's impossible for one panel to absorb the current from the other panel. Although I think most panels have such blocking diodes installed internally without being certain I would add external diodes.

Here's some good info. https://www.mpptsolar.com/en/solar-panels-in-parallel.html
Here's an example of blocking diodes: https://www.amazon.com/Tnisesm-20SQ...Code=ur2&qid=1610379388&sr=8-13&tag=mppsol-20

 

[Bluejets]

Connecting dissimilar solar panels is never a good idea.

 

[VictorAdebayo]

I don't have any significant knowledge of solar panels, but since no one has responded I'll try to help.

I think the safest way to connect dissimilar solar panels in parallel it to add a blocking diode to each one.

Thank you for caring. I appreciate the links you attached also.