Frequently Asked Questions

No, the controller uses your existing hot water cylinder thermostat. The controller terminals are outputs connected to your existing thermostat. This design ensures compatibility and maintains your current temperature settings.

No, the unit does not switch power on and off. It supplies power from either utility or PV to the cylinder. Your existing thermostat controls the temperature and cycling based on your hot water needs.

No, this is not a solar diverter. The Kowhai Heat iX Controller is designed specifically for hot water cylinder applications. It intelligently manages power sources rather than diverting excess solar energy.

The iX model works with cylinders from 50-300 liters and element sizes from 2-4 kW. This covers most residential hot water cylinders in New Zealand homes.

No, the system works with your existing standard elements and thermostats, reducing installation costs. This is one of the key advantages of the Kowhai Heat system.

The cable-based system allows flexible installation - panels can be installed at any reasonable distance from the hot water cylinder. This is ideal for multi-storey buildings and properties with specific solar requirements.

Yes, the system complies with AS/NZS 3820:2009 and includes multiple safety features including reverse polarity protection and surge arrestors. It's designed and tested for New Zealand conditions.

Very little maintenance is required as there are no moving parts like pumps. Periodic cleaning of solar panels is recommended to maintain optimal efficiency. The controller itself is essentially maintenance-free.