Fronius Ohmpilot Review

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Hot Water Produced with Photovoltaics

The Fronius Ohmpilot offers a compelling solution for Australian households and businesses with solar PV systems. By cleverly diverting excess solar energy to hot water heating, you can significantly reduce energy bills, boost self-consumption, and contribute to a greener future. 

 

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to leverage your solar investment further, the Fronius Ohmpilot is worth considering.

fronius-ohmpilot

What is the Fronius Ohmpilot?

The Fronius Ohmpilot is a smart device that intelligently diverts excess solar energy generation towards heating your hot water system. Unlike battery storage, which can be expensive, the Ohmpilot offers a cost-effective way to maximise solar consumption. By regulating power output (from 0 to 9 kW), the Ohmpilot efficiently utilises surplus electricity to heat water in your existing boiler, buffer tank, or even infrared heaters and towel rails.

Key features of the Fronius Ohmpilot

  • Efficient self-consumption: The Ohmpilot intelligently regulates power output, ranging from 0 to 9 kW, to heat your water with surplus solar energy. This ensures you’re utilising your solar production effectively.
  • Broad compatibility: Works seamlessly with most existing electric hot water systems, including boilers, buffer tanks, infrared heaters, and heated towel rails.
  • Smart monitoring: This product integrates with the Fronius Solar web app, allowing you to monitor your hot water heating process and overall solar energy consumption.

Specifications of the Fronius Ohmpilot

  • Model phase options: 1-phase | 3-phase with installed and connected neutral conductor
  • Maximum output power: 3 kW | 9 kW
  • Frequency (input/output): 50 Hz
  • Installation: Wall mounting
  • Protection class: IP54
  • Dimensions (height x width x depth): 350 x 280 x 110
  • Weight: 3 | 9 kg

Applications for the Fronius Ohmpilot

The Fronius Ohmpilot is a versatile solution for various applications:

  • Residential homes: Perfect for homeowners who maximise solar self-consumption and reduce hot water heating costs.
  • Small businesses: Solar-powered water heating is ideal for businesses with hot water needs, such as cafes or hair salons.

Pros of the Fronius Ohmpilot

  • Increased self-consumption: The Ohmpilot diverts excess solar energy to heat water, reducing reliance on the grid and boosting your solar power usage.
  • Reduced energy costs: Using solar energy for hot water can significantly lower your electricity or gas bills associated with water heating.
  • Environmentally friendly: Solar water heating reduces your carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.
  • Continuously adjustable regulation: The Ohmpilot efficiently utilises even small amounts of surplus solar power for water heating.
  • Easy integration: Works seamlessly with existing Fronius inverters and smart meter systems for a straightforward installation.
  • Versatile applications: The Ohmpilot can control various heating elements, including boilers, towel radiators, and infrared heating systems.

Cons of the Fronius Ohmpilot

  • Limited hot water production in winter: Solar energy production is lower in winter, so the Ohmpilot might only partially meet hot water needs.
  • Reliance on sunlight: Functionality depends on sufficient sunlight for hot water generation.

Is the Fronius Ohmpilot right for you?

Here are some factors to consider:

  • Existing solar PV system: The Ohmpilot integrates seamlessly with existing solar setups.
  • Hot water usage patterns: You’ll benefit most if your hot water usage coincides with peak solar generation (sunny days).
  • Hot water system compatibility: Ensure your hot water system (boiler, tank) can integrate with the Ohmpilot. It is recommended that you consult a qualified solar installer.

Remember: Consulting with a qualified solar installer is crucial to determining whether the Fronius Ohmpilot is compatible with your needs.

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