Why a quality cable for your plugin solar kit is key for safety and performance

At Robinsun, we’re committed to providing our customers not just the highest quality in plugin solar kits, but also the utmost safety of your installation. Over recent months, we’ve noticed a growing demand for flexible mounting options for our Robinsun plugin solar kits, which often require larger cables to connect the kit to the nearest power socket. In response, we’ve expanded our product offering to include a variety of high-quality cables that meet the specific needs of plugin solar installations. But why should you buy longer connection cables for your kit’s micro inverter when you can get a cheap conventional extension cable in any bazaar or DIY shop? Let’s dive into the differences and why quality matters.

Introducing our range of cables

This month we restocked our offering of three types of cables commonly used in plugin solar kits available in our online store:

• Betteri-Schuko cables: Ranging from 3 m to 20 m, these cables connect the micro inverter directly to a standard Schuko socket. The varying lengths give you the flexibility to position your plugin solar kit wherever you need it, without worrying about power loss during or safety in power transmission.
• MC4 extension cables: Available in lengths from 1 m to 3 m, these cables are needed to connect your solar panels to the micro inverter, should you want to position one or both of your panels further away from your micro inverter.
• Betteri extension cables: At 1 m in length, these cables are needed to connect multiple micro inverters in a daisy chain (also known as parallel connection)when the panels are installed horizontally, as is the case for plugin solar kits. They bridge the gap between inverters, ensuring a seamless connection without compromising performance.

The risks of using cheap bazaar extension cables

While it might be tempting to pick up a low-cost extension cable from a bazaar or DIY shop, especially when faced with the need to extend the connection of your plugin solar kit, there are risks associated with using these generic products that you should be aware of. Various European studies have highlighted the dangers of using substandard electrical equipment, including the risk of fires, electrical shocks, and system failures. For example, a report from the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) found that non-compliant electrical products, including cables, pose significant safety risks, particularly when used in solar installations. While a plugin solar kit is just a small solar installation, protecting the safety of your home is important.

1. Poor quality materials: Cheap extension cables are often made from inferior materials, which can lead to rapid wear and tear. Over time, these cables can degrade, resulting in energy loss, overheating, and even electrical fires. In contrast, Robinsun cables are built with high-quality, durable materials designed to withstand the demands of a solar installation.
2. Inadequate insulation: Proper insulation is crucial in preventing energy loss and ensuring safety. Cheap extension cables may not have the necessary insulation to handle the outdoor conditions and constant exposure to UV rays that solar kits have to endure. A study by the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) emphasized the importance of proper insulation in preventing electrical hazards, especially in outdoor environments. Robinsun’s cables, on the other hand, use high quality cables with a diameter specifically chosen to connect one or two 800 W micro inverters. Using our cables you ensure that your kit remains safely connected even in harsh weather conditions, without losing power.
3. Energy loss: Another problem of cheap cables is the potential for energy loss. These cables are not optimized for continuous long-distance transfer of higher amounts of electricity, which can result in significant power drops by the time the energy reaches your appliances. Robinsun’s cables minimize energy loss, ensuring that your solar power is fully utilized.
4. Connection issues: extension cables often have unreliable connectors that can loosen or fail over time. This can lead to intermittent power delivery or complete disconnection, disrupting your solar energy supply. Robinsun’s Betteri-Schuko and MC4 connectors are built for secure, reliable connections that maintain their integrity even after repeated use. Using one longer cable to connect your micro inverter directly to your socket, without any connections in between, avoids any risk or loss in transit.
5. Safety concerns: Perhaps the most critical concern with using cheap extension cables is safety. Poor construction and inadequate shielding can lead to dangers, such as short circuits, electrical fires, and even electrocution. According to a study by the European Safety Federation, a significant number of electrical accidents in Europe are attributed to non-compliant, low-quality cables. Our cables use high quality components specifically designed for outdoor use in plugin solar kits, giving you peace of mind that your installation is safe and reliable at all times.

Why Robinsun’s cables are the better choice

When it comes to solar installations, the quality of your cables is just as important as the quality of your panels. Robinsun’s specialized cables are designed to complement our solar kits, providing you with the flexibility, efficiency, and safety that you need. Here’s why our cables stand out:

• Top-Quality Components: We use premium-grade cables and durable plugs that ensure long-lasting reliability and optimal performance, even in challenging conditions.
• Perfect Thickness: Our cables are precisely engineered to the right thickness for 1 or 2 micro inverters. This tailored design ensures maximum efficiency and power transfer.
• Safe and Lossless Transmission: Designed specifically for outdoor use, our cables feature robust insulation and weather-resistant materials. This guarantees ongoing safe operation and maintains a lossless power transmission, even in harsh environments.
• Straightforward Installation: Enjoy hassle-free setup with a direct line from the micro inverter to the socket—no need for additional extensions or intermediate connections. This not only simplifies installation but also enhances safety and minimizes any potential loss of power.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to extend your plugin solar kit, choosing the right cables is crucial. Robinsun’s high-quality Betteri-Schuko, MC4, and Betteri extension cables offer the reliability, efficiency, and safety that generic bazar extension cables simply cannot match. By investing in the right accessories, you ensure that your solar installation performs at its best, providing you with clean, efficient energy for years to come.

Explore our range of cables today and make the smart choice for your solar setup. At Robinsun, we’re here to power your future, one cable at a time. Contact us via email, WhatsApp or call us if you have any questions or need help to choose your own Robinsun Performance plugin solar kit.