How do I protect 12v wires without cutting them?

Question

I have a couple of solar panels leading to a battery and the wires are your standard red/black type which I feel need some added protection from the elements. How can I protect them without cutting them or taking the croc clips off? They are currently laid between concrete slabs in the back garden (the gap between slabs is a good 5-10mm wide, handy!). Is there any clever sleeving out there for the job?

Cheers
Matt

Joe · Accepted Answer

Sounds like you've got the wires in an expansion joint in your concrete patio, or something like that.

I've found a liquid rubber-like crack sealer at the home center.  Just pour it in and let it set.  Maybe stuff in some rope as a filler, first.

Dallen B · Answer

The best bet would be as already suggested and that is to pull the wires and run them through either metal or PVC conduit. It will be a little more work but worth the effort.

An alternative is buying wire cover material like is used in automobiles (I don't know what they call it).  The material is split on the sides and just slips over the wires protecting them from the elements. There is other wire protection material used in automobiles that is formed into what appears to be a rope or large wire twisting. It is PVC type material that you just wind (already appears to be wound but it has a slit that allows you to wind it around a clump of wires) around the wires.It comes in various sizes and does a good job of protecting wires from wear, weather and oil! An auto parts store and help you!

Got Wild Staring Eyes · Answer

Conduit is used on solar systems when installed by pros.  It won't hurt anything to unplug the wires, I would disconnect at the panels and run through the conduit.

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How do I protect 12v wires without cutting them?

3 Answers