Skip to main content

Getting Started with Elon® Smart Water: A Beginner’s Guide

Getting Started with Elon Smart Water

E
Written by Elon Team
Updated over 9 months ago

Welcome to Elon Smart Water, an innovative solution to optimise your home’s water heating. Designed for easy installation and efficient operation, Elon Smart Water transforms a standard electric water heater into a solar-powered, smart device.

Whether you’re looking to save on electricity costs, reduce your reliance on the grid, or just monitor water temperature more effectively, Elon Smart Water has you covered.

NOTE: You need an Elon Smart Thermostat installed on your Kwikot water heater to be able to control it from your phone! Contact the Elon Smart team to get a quote.


Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started

1. Install the Elon Smart App

  • Download the App: Install the Elon Smart Water app on your smartphone from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

  • Open the App: Open the app and wait for it to authenticate (this should only take a few seconds).

  • Scan the QR Code: Tap the (+) button in the app to add the thermostat. Use your phone to scan the QR code on your thermostat or inside your distribution board.

2. Configuring Your Settings

  • Set Temperature Set Points: In the app, you can set distinct temperatures for solar and grid power modes. For optimal energy savings, it’s often recommended to set the solar temperature higher (e.g., 65°C) and the grid temperature lower (e.g., 50°C).

  • Choose a Heating Profile: Select from options like “Solar Only,” “Grid Only,” or hybrid settings tailored for morning and evening showers, depending on when your household uses hot water. These profiles determine when the geyser will draw energy from solar or grid sources, allowing you to maximise efficiency based on your routine.

3. Connecting to Solar Power (Optional)

  • Solar PV Ready: If you have a solar PV system installed, Elon Smart Water can draw energy from the sun. Make sure your solar installation follows recommended guidelines for maximum efficiency, such as positioning panels with adequate sun exposure and selecting a compatible array size for your household’s hot water needs.

  • Heating Profiles for Solar Users: Selecting “Solar Only” mode will prevent grid power use, allowing you to rely solely on solar energy during sunny days. It is still recommended to have grid power connected, since you can then still see your water temperature through the night, and you can boost with grid power (using the “Heat with grid now” button) on cloudy days or when using a lot of hot water. Hybrid modes like “Morning Shower” ensure automatic backup heating from the grid when necessary.

Key Benefits

  • Cost Savings: By utilising solar power, you reduce grid dependency, leading to lower electricity bills. With the smart app, you can track savings and adjust settings to further reduce costs.

  • Convenience and Control: With the app, you can monitor water temperature, switch between energy sources, and even activate heating remotely, ensuring hot water when you need it most.

  • Automatic Alerts and Troubleshooting: The system sends early alerts if it detects issues like element failure or insulation faults. Basic troubleshooting guides are available here.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incorrect Installation: Ensure a qualified installer handles the setup, especially if connecting to solar power. Incorrect wiring or positioning can impact performance, compromise safety and may void the warranty. When connecting to solar PV, a registered electrician MUST issue a supplementary Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for the installation.

  • Ignoring Alerts: If you receive an alert (like low temperature or a faulty element), address it promptly. Neglecting these alerts can lead to larger issues and disrupt service.

Getting started with Elon Smart Water is simple and brings the benefits of smart technology to your water heating. With easy monitoring, electricity savings, and proactive alerts, this system empowers you to make smarter choices for your household. Have an Elon Smart installed, download the app, configure your settings, and let Elon Smart take care of the rest.

For more in-depth support, visit the Elon Smart Water for installation guides, troubleshooting resources, and customer service contacts.

Did this answer your question?