DC Breaker Price in Pakistan: Solar and Battery Circuits, Voltage and Amp Ratings, Polarity and Safe Installation
DC breaker price in Pakistan runs from about PKR 2,300 for a 32 A double-pole unit to over PKR 3,400 for a 16 A model from some makers, with larger ratings costing more. A DC breaker protects solar panels, batteries and inverters, and it must be rated for DC, because an AC breaker can fail to break a direct current arc. This page explains where DC breakers go, how to choose the voltage and amp rating, indicative rates and safe installation. For household circuits, see MCB breakers and the circuit breaker overview.
Why DC needs its own breaker
Alternating current crosses zero 100 times a second, which helps a breaker put out the arc. Direct current never crosses zero, so the arc is harder to extinguish. A DC breaker has a special arc chamber and is marked with its DC voltage rating. Using an AC breaker on solar or battery wiring is a fire risk.
Where DC breakers are used
- Solar string protection. Between panels and the inverter.
- Battery bank. Between the battery and the inverter.
- Combiner boxes. One breaker per string.
- Off-grid systems. Lighting and pump circuits on DC.
DC breaker price in Pakistan
Rates depend on voltage, amp rating, pole count and brand. These indicative ranges show common retail figures.
| Item | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| 16 A double-pole DC breaker, 500 V | PKR 2,400 - 3,500 |
| 32 A double-pole DC breaker, 500 V | PKR 2,300 - 2,500 |
| 63 A double-pole DC breaker, 500 V | PKR 2,400 - 3,200 |
| 4-pole DC breaker for higher voltage | PKR 3,500 - 7,500 |
| Branded DC breaker, same rating | PKR 4,500 - 12,000 |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Voltage and amp rating
The DC voltage rating must exceed the maximum string voltage, including the rise in cold weather. A 500 V breaker suits many home strings, while larger systems need 1,000 V units. The current rating should protect the cable, usually 1.25 to 1.5 times the string current. A solar installer should size both from the panel data.
Polarity and wiring
Many DC breakers are not polarity sensitive, but some are, and the marking shows the correct direction. Use the right cable size, tight lugs and clearly marked red and black conductors. Keep the breaker in a closed box that is rated for outdoor use if it sits on the roof. See our wire guide for cable sizes.
AC and DC breakers together
A hybrid solar system uses both. DC breakers sit between panels, battery and inverter, and AC breakers protect the output and the loads, with an RCCB on socket circuits. Never swap them. Label each breaker with its purpose, the string it protects and the date of installation.
Buying tips
Check the DC voltage on the face of the breaker, not just the amp rating. Buy from a reliable seller and avoid unmarked units. Compare the arc rating and the terminals. Our breaker brands guide explains the price tiers.
Safety
Solar installation and battery wiring carry shock and fire risk, and a live DC string cannot be switched off from the roof. Fixed wiring should be done by a qualified installer. Always isolate the DC side before any work and use insulated tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 32 A double-pole 500 V DC breaker is about PKR 2,300 to 2,500 and a 16 A model about PKR 2,400 to 3,500 from some sellers. Higher voltage and four-pole units cost more, and branded units cost PKR 4,500 or more.
No. A DC arc does not extinguish like an AC arc, so an AC breaker may fail to break the circuit and can cause a fire. Use a breaker marked for DC with a voltage rating above your string voltage. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
Add the open-circuit voltage of the panels in each string and allow for the rise in cold weather. The breaker rating must be higher than that figure. Many homes use 500 V, and larger systems use 1,000 V. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
Choose a rating that protects the cable, usually 1.25 to 1.5 times the string current. A solar installer should size it from the panel data sheet and the cable rating, because the cable and the breaker must match. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Some DC breakers are polarity sensitive and show the correct direction on the face. Follow the marking. Using the wrong polarity on those can stop the arc chamber from working, which is dangerous. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Usually the same working day once you send the quantity, the size or rating and a photo. The reply is a written rate with the model, warranty and delivery listed, so you can compare it against other quotes line by line. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Planning a solar or battery panel?
Send the details and a photo. We reply with a written rate.