SolBox: Converting an electric water heater into a solar system – The smart solution for every space

SolBox connects the photovoltaic panels to the electric water heater via special wiring so that the solar energy produced is converted into heat for the water.

The system is designed to:

• Efficiently utilize the electricity generated by the panels, reducing the need for power from the grid or other conventional energy sources.
• Incorporate automatic energy management mechanisms, giving priority to solar energy, to ensure a continuous and stable supply of hot water, even in conditions of variable sunshine. In the event of insufficient sunlight, the system supplements from another conventional source — electricity, pellets, gas, oil, or whatever is available.

SolBox supports different versions depending on your needs:

1. Light: With 2 photovoltaic panels, ideal for small domestic applications or limited space.
2. Family: With 3 panels, suitable for medium-sized homes and small businesses.
3. Pro: With 6 panels, for large installations and demanding energy needs.
In addition, there is the option of a customized solution with 1 to 8 panels, covering heating needs of up to 1000 liters of water.

To better understand the capabilities and ease of use of SolBox, below are the key technical features that make it stand out:
• Easy connection to photovoltaic panels and integration with your existing water heater via secure electrical connections, offering a simple but efficient solution for hot water all year round.
• Operation with MPPT (P&O) algorithm for optimal utilization of solar energy.
• High voltage protection (lightning protection) and current limiting safety.
• Operates at a low voltage of 70V, without any contact with the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network (HEDNO), as no license required.
• Device dimensions: 14.5 x 9.5 x 14.5 cm (WxHxD).
• Compatible with all types of electric water heaters, no replacement or additional modifications required.
• Remote control, statistics and fault reporting via a dedicated app with encrypted WiFi connection.
With these technical features, SolBox combines reliability with ease of installation, offering a solution that can be integrated directly into any environment.

The SolBox has been designed with simplicity and reliability in mind:
• Plug & Play connection: The need for specialized knowledge is minimized, allowing the technician to complete the installation quickly.
• Integrated energy management: The system automatically adjusts the priority of energy coming from the panels or the grid, ensuring optimal operation of the water heater.
• Full technical support: Instructions and training are provided to installers so that they can correctly implement the system in any environment.
• Flexibility in placement: The photovoltaic panels operate at angles of 2-3 degrees discreetly at the end of the boiler room or vertically on a wall, allowing installation on almost any type of surface, without the limitations of traditional solar panels and without spoiling the architecture of the building.

Choosing SolBox not only offers ease of installation, but also a range of practical and financial benefits that make this solution ideal for both domestic and professional use. Specifically:

1. The simplicity of installation allows for installation without changes to the existing electric water heater or complex plumbing work, reducing time and cost.
2. The flexibility of applications covers homes, commercial spaces, and even remote areas without connection to the electrical grid.
3. The energy efficiency achieved through photovoltaics significantly reduces operating costs.
4. Zero maintenance costs are due to the simple construction and reliable materials, which ensure long-term operation without additional expenses.
5. The system does not freeze or boil, does not require the addition of antifreeze, and does not need maintenance.
6. Environmental sustainability is promoted by reducing the carbon footprint, enhancing the transition to green technologies.
In short, SolBox is not just a technological innovation; it is a comprehensive solution that combines performance, safety, and sustainability, fully meeting hot water needs in all circumstances.

You may be interested in: Ground-mounted solar panels: Which mounting system is best – single-pile or double-pile?

SolBox operates independently of any existing photovoltaic installation and does not add to the installed capacity. Furthermore, it does not alter the license or use of any photovoltaic system with batteries that may already be installed on the site.

Thanks to these features, it is a smart, effective, and economical solution for harnessing solar energy in existing electric water heaters. Axinar, with its long experience in engineering and manufacturing metal bases and systems, offers SolBox as a complete package of know-how, quality, and support, bringing the technology of connecting solar to electric water heaters to every home and business.