Marlec Solar iBoost+ Immersion Heater Controller for Solar PV Systems
Marlec Solar iBoost+ Immersion Heater Controller for Solar PV Systems
SKU:I-BOOST
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Marlec Solar iBoost+ Immersion Heater Controller for Solar PV Systems
Smart Energy Diversion | Hot Water Optimisation | UK Designed
The Marlec Solar iBoost+ Immersion Heater Controller is a smart energy management device designed for homes with solar PV systems. It automatically diverts surplus solar energy, which would otherwise be exported to the grid, to heat your domestic hot water via an immersion heater. This intelligent controller helps maximise your solar self-consumption, reducing reliance on grid electricity for water heating and lowering your energy bills.
Available from Solarika, the Solar iBoost+ is a proven UK-designed solution that integrates seamlessly with existing solar PV installations and hot water cylinders. It offers proportional control, ensuring only excess power is used, and provides clear insights into your energy savings through its integrated display.
CORE FUNCTION: Automatically diverts surplus solar PV energy to your immersion heater for free hot water.
Key Features
| ▶ Automatic Solar Diversion — Intelligently redirects surplus PV energy (over 100W) to your immersion heater, reducing grid export. |
| ▶ Proportional Power Control — Continuously adjusts energy flow to the immersion heater in line with fluctuating export levels, maintaining a 100W export buffer. |
| ▶ Dual Immersion Heater Support — Connects and sequentially powers up to two immersion heaters (max 3kW each) in a single hot water tank. |
| ▶ Real-Time & Historical Display — Integrated screen shows current heating status and accumulated savings (Today, Yesterday, Last 7/28 days, Total). |
| ▶ Manual Boost Function — Activate hot water heating from the grid in 15-minute increments, up to 2 hours, for on-demand hot water. |
| ▶ Programmable Timer — Features two daily programmable boost periods with separate weekday/weekend and summer/winter settings. |
| ▶ Wireless Sender Unit — A battery-powered sender with a measurement clamp wirelessly transmits export data to the main unit, simplifying installation. |
| ▶ Battery Storage System Compatibility — Adjustable settings allow prioritisation of hot water or battery charging. |
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 220-240 Vac |
| Max. Immersion Heater Load | 13A Resistive (max 3kW per immersion) |
| Number of Immersion Heaters | Up to 2 (sequential operation) |
| Minimum Diversion Threshold | 100W export surplus |
| Operating Ambient Temperature (Controller) | 0 to 40°C |
| IP Rating (Controller) | IP20 |
| Controller Dimensions (H x W x D) | 225 x 158 x 92 mm |
| Sender Battery Type | 2 x AA IEC LR6 1.5V alkaline |
| Wireless Frequency | 868.3 MHz |
Operating & Power Guidance
The Marlec Solar iBoost+ intelligently manages your home's energy flow to maximise hot water generation from your solar PV system. It operates by continuously monitoring the energy being exported to the grid and diverting this surplus to your immersion heater(s).
The proportional control ensures that only excess energy is used, preventing any draw from the grid for water heating when solar generation is insufficient. Its rapid response to changes in household consumption and weather conditions ensures efficient operation.
Typical Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Domestic Solar PV Systems | Ideal for homeowners with grid-tied solar panels looking to maximise self-consumption by heating water with free solar energy. |
| Homes with Hot Water Cylinders | Suitable for properties with a hot water cylinder equipped with one or two immersion heaters. |
| Integration with Battery Storage | Can be configured to work alongside battery storage systems, allowing users to prioritise either battery charging or hot water heating. |
Built-In Protection Functions & Certifications
The Marlec Solar iBoost+ is designed with safety and reliability in mind. It features robust internal diagnostics and is CE compliant, conforming to essential product and safety standards. These include EN 60730-2-7 (automated electrical household controls), EN 301 489-3 (EMC for radio equipment), EN 300 220 (radio spectrum matters), EN 60335-1 (safety of household appliances), and EN 60950-1 (safety for IT equipment). The unit also conforms to the RoHS directive.
Common Questions
Does the Solar iBoost+ affect my Feed-in Tariff (FiT) payments?
No, in the UK, FiT generation payments are typically not affected. The Solar iBoost+ diverts energy that would otherwise be exported, and most export tariff contracts are based on deemed energy usage rather than actual metered self-consumption.
Can I use the Solar iBoost+ with other renewable energy sources?
Yes, the Solar iBoost+ measures export at your utility meter. If you regularly export power from other sources like wind turbines, this unit can also help divert that surplus energy.
What if I need hot water when there's no solar generation?
The Solar iBoost+ includes a manual 'Boost' function, allowing you to activate grid power to your immersion heater in 15-minute increments for up to 2 hours, ensuring hot water on demand. It also has a programmable timer for scheduled heating.
Is the Solar iBoost+ compatible with battery storage systems?
Yes, the Solar iBoost+ is compatible with battery storage systems. Its settings can be adjusted to prioritise either charging your batteries or heating your hot water, depending on your preferences.
Installation Notes
- Installation of the Marlec Solar iBoost+ must only be undertaken by a suitably trained and qualified electrician, adhering to all local safety standards and IEE Wiring Regulations.
- The main controller unit is typically installed near the hot water tank, wired between a fused spur or MCB and the immersion heater(s).
- The wireless sender unit, with its measurement clamp, should be fitted around the household's main incoming live cable near the utility meter. Correct clamp orientation is critical for proper operation.
- Ensure there are no electronic controls or switches between the Solar iBoost+ and the immersion heater; only direct connection to the immersion and its mechanical thermostat is suitable.
- Maintain a minimum 100mm clearance around the unit to ensure adequate airflow and prevent obstruction.
Before You Buy
- Verify you have an existing solar PV system that regularly generates surplus energy for export.
- Confirm your hot water cylinder is equipped with one or two immersion heaters, each rated up to 3kW, and that they include a working mechanical thermostat.
- Ensure the distance between your hot water tank (where the controller is installed) and the utility meter (where the sender clamp is fitted) is within the wireless range (typically up to 30m indoors).
- Consult with a qualified electrician to assess your specific installation requirements and ensure compatibility with your existing electrical and plumbing systems.
Product specifications are subject to change by the manufacturer. Always refer to the latest manufacturer documentation for critical details and installation guidance. This product comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty.
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