Why Do I Need a Blocking Diode on My Solar Panel?
Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight during the day. But unless a solar panel is fitted with a blocking diode, some of that energy is lost again through the panel after dark. Nonetheless, installing a blocking diode is not always recommended, for it may also reduce the solar panel’s charging ability.Blocking DiodesDiodes are electrical components that only allow current to flow in one direction. On solar panels, they are installed so that current can flow into the battery but can’t flow out of the battery.Voltage DropThe disadvantage of using a blocking diode is that it causes a voltage drop. A diode reduces a solar panel’s output by about 0.7 volts.Diodes May Reduce Charging AbilityTo charge a battery, the solar panel’s output voltage must be higher than the battery voltage. Depending on the panel’s size, the voltage drop caused by a blocking diode may actually reduce a panel’s output by more than what would be lost at night if the diode was omitted.Panel Size and VoltageTh
