AC Disconnect
DC Disconnect

AC and DC disconnect switches

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AC and DC disconnect switches are essential components needed to install a solar panel system on your roof and connect it to your home.

AC circuit breaker disconnects the inverter from the grid. In photovoltaic systems, it is usually wall mounted between the inverter and the utility meter and can be a standalone switch or breaker in the service panel. A DC disconnect switch is a switch that can interrupt the flow of DC (direct current).

Properly installed AC and DC Disconnect Switches can quickly disconnect incoming power when necessary while ensuring the safety of your customer’s home.

Most countries’ building codes require these circuit breakers to be installed. Therefore, it is important to understand how AC and DC disconnect switches work.

The main purpose of these circuit breakers is to allow the incoming power flow from the solar panel to be interrupted. This is what a typical solar panel system looks like and where to find the cut points.

How does AC/DC disconnect work

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DC isolator: A DC isolator (sometimes called a PV disconnect) is placed between the solar panel and the inverter, or is often built into the inverter.

AC isolator: Output as AC (alternating current) after the current has flowed through the inverter. An AC disconnect switch is installed after the inverter to protect the home in case of an emergency such as a fire. AC disconnect switches are usually mounted on the outside wall of the house near the electricity meter.

Inverter: An inverter is a device that switches input power from DC (direct current) to AC (alternating current) so that you can use electricity in your home. The energy produced by solar panels is DC (direct current), so an inverter is required, but homes are wired to AC (alternating current).