Short Immersion heater

[pauldreed]

I have solar panels fitted which generate up to 3.3kw, but most days it's 1 to 2KW.

I want to heat my water with that power, and have sourced a 1kw immmersion heater element (it was designed for boats!) with a suitable 2 1/4" BSP thread, but it is only 11" long.

If I mount this at the top of my water cylinder, would it eventually heat all of the water in the tank - or just the top 12" or so? (hot water rises).

I anticipate that the element would be solar powered for 5-6 hours, and if necessary the water temp could be topped up later via the gas boiler.

 

[pauldreed]

Sorry to bounce this post, but I would be grateful for any help with this.

 

[tamz]

If you fit an 11" immersion it will only heat the top of the cylinder but would give you a start and reduce your gas consumption.

For a longer one ring this company and they may be able to help
Howden electro heating company, electric heating manufacturer

 

[pauldreed]

...For a longer one ring this company and they may be able to help
Howden electro heating company, electric heating manufacturer

I have contacted them and they are really helpful.
They will manufacture the element to whatever wattage I require for about £60, which is more than an 'off the shelf' element, but it would be a ideal solution. Thanks for the help.

 

[Plumbstar Tom]

I will book mark these people then as that sounds pretty good to me for a create your own Immersion heater