Wiring and componentsQuestion 784 of 1506

In a parallel battery bank, what overcurrent protection is advised?

  1. No fuse at all, because the batteries are low voltage
  2. One fuse on only one battery
  3. One fuse on the load only
  4. A fuse on each battery plus a fuse for the load
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Correct answer: A fuse on each battery plus a fuse for the load

An internal short in one battery can send large currents from the good batteries through the connecting wires, and the load fuse would not see it.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits I: DC (Kuphaldt), 11.5: Practical Considerations - Batteries

Practice wiring and components

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026