Frequently asked questions

Yes, it is. You have the choice of ordering the self- heat regulating power cable that can be connected to your wall power socket.

No.

The photovoltaic boiler is mounted on the wall like any other geyser. To generate your own hot water, simply connect your PV panels to the boiler. This takes a few seconds.

Additional instructions: 1. The boiler is mounted on a suitable wall using suitable screws. A hanging system for the boiler is included. (Do not screw) 2. The second step is to connect the boiler to the water supply network. As with any “classic” electric geyser, the connection is made via a 1/2" thread. 3. In the last step, the PV modules are plugged into the boiler. If necessary, an extension cable can be used between the PV modules and the photovoltaic boiler.

a. 1 x 300W solar panel for the 30 litre boiler

b. 2 x 300W solar panels for the 80 litre boiler

Theoretically yes! We recommend connecting the modules in parallel to ensure that the open-circuit voltage does not become too high. In the case of a series connection, the sum of the no-load voltages must not be higher than 42.4 V. It must be noted that at colder temperatures the no-load voltage is higher than specified

There are several reasons for this:

1. Lower investment costs. Photovoltaic modules have become about 90% cheaper in the last 20 years.

2. Installation is much easier as only wires and no pipes need to be laid.

3. Unlike solar thermal systems, photovoltaic panels produce electricity (or heat) even in cloudy and cold weather. This is especially useful in winter when warmth is most needed.

4. There are no moving parts like pumps. This increases the service life and reduces the maintenance effort.

5. No freeze protection is required for the pipes.

North West facing, in the southern hemisphere.

The connections are configured for DIY. The boiler connections are plug and play, i.e. you disconnect the hot and cold water fittings from your existing geyser and connect it to the fothermo boiler. The cabling from the roof mounted solar panel/s simply plugs into the boiler.

No, because it has no moving parts, like pumps.

The photovoltaic modules are simply switched off. Nothing happens. This is not harmful to the boiler or the photovoltaic panels. We are currently working on a solution that allows excess electricity to be fed into the power grid. As soon as we have a finished solution, we will report about it.

Highly unlikely, because the technology has self-regulating over heating safety cut-off functionality.

Yes. 3 years.

The tank and element should last for 10 to 15 years. The power transforming electronic should last for 20 years.

No, this is not possible. A connected 12V / 24V battery can only be discharged by the boiler but not loaded.

Yes. To do this, open the flange of the boiler on the underside under the cover. The inside of the boiler can then be wiped out with a damp cloth. Nothing more is necessary. Please do not use vinegar cleaner or pointed objects to remove lime scale.

The 80 litre is suitable, generating 180 litres of hot water per day, provided each person does not use hot water excessively. Conservatively, a long 10-minute shower consumes 15 litres of hot water.

The 30 litre is suitable, generating 70 litres of hot water per day, provided each person does not use hot water excessively. Conservatively, a long 10-minute shower consumes 15 litres of hot water.

Yes, as the water temperature drops by just 7 degrees overnight.

No. Only the PV solar panels weighing up to 50kg, are mounted on the roof, not requiring any reinforcing with the boiler mounted indoors.

No. There are no pipes nor heavy equipment to mount and position on the roof.