How do I wire my batteries for different voltages?
There are two major terms we use when referring to the way batteries are wired together, series and parallel. Most off-grid solar power systems (as well as wind power systems) include batteries where the energy generated by solar panels is stored for later use either by DC loads or AC loads through an inverter. Below is a brief explanation, with diagrams, of how to wire batteries together for your particular solar application.
Batteries Wired In Parallel
When you want to keep the votages the same while increasing the capacity of your batteries, then you'll want to wire them in parallel. Wiring them in parallel can be described as connecting positive to positive and negative to negative. See the diagram below as an example of paralleling four batteries in a 12volt system.
It's a rather straightforward process to connect your batteries in parallel and can be accomplished by DIYers and novices working on battery banks for off-grid cabins, or out-buildings, tinyhouses, treehouses
Batteries Wired In Series
Series connecting increases the voltage in a system, while capacity of the battery bank remains the same. Here is an example of series connecting four batteries together to create a 48volt system, and a 24volt system. Then paralleling the 24 and 48volt banks with another 24 and 48volt bank to increase capacity.
