ANTIK Smart inverter for water heating
AC input: 230VAC, max. 16A
DC input: 0-400VDC, max.15A
AC output: 0 – 250VAC 50Hz, rectangular waveform, suitable for resistive load only!
MPPT inverter: Maximum power 3000W
User interface: 2.5” OLED display, touch buttons
Communication interfaces: RS485,
WiFi – Connection to ANTIK Smart Home
Dimensions and weight: 160x160x80mm, 2kg
Mounting method: Wall mounting using the included bracket
Operating temperature: -20 to +60°C
Design: IP40
The most effective way to use photovoltaics for homes and cottages with the fastest payback is photovoltaic water heating. Simply mount photovoltaic panels on the roof, connect the ANTIK PV Water Heater to your current hot water boiler. No electrical installation modifications, no inspections or permits from the electricity distributor are required .
ANTIK DC inverter for water heating
A device designed for efficient water heating from direct current (DC) generated by photovoltaic panels, with support for connection to the AC network. The built-in MPPT controller optimizes the power in real time according to current conditions, ensuring maximum energy yield from the solar system.
The 230 V AC connection serves as a backup source for water heating from the mains and also allows for continuous monitoring via the ANTIK SmartHome® application. Control is provided by a modern OLED display and a Wi-Fi module .
Features:
- Direct water heating (3 kW) from separate solar panels without interfering with the existing PV system
- MPPT controller (0–400 VDC, 15 A) optimizes performance under different light conditions
- Simple plug-and-play installation without the need for inspection, certification or distribution network approval - also suitable for DIYers
- Active cooling for stable operation, high reliability and long service life
Additional features:
✅ Online monitoring of the device and boiler status (temperature, power, heating status) via WiFi and the ANTIK SmartHome® application
✅ Backup heating from the AC network - automatic start of the 230 V AC output if the target temperature has not been reached within a defined time
✅ Possibility of switching two outputs - for example, after heating one boiler, it switches to the second output
Automation and programmable parameters
The ANTIK Smart inverter offers intelligent automation that increases comfort and makes water heating operation more efficient. All settings are easily made via the ANTIK SmartHome® application , which responds to current conditions and user preferences.
Examples of settings and automations:
- Backup heating by time - Activates only in the specified time interval (e.g. 15:00–18:00) if the water has not reached the target temperature.
- Separate temperatures for DC and AC - Possibility to set a higher target temperature for solar heating and a lower one for grid backup.
- Switching outputs - After reaching the desired temperature at the first output, it is possible to automatically switch the heating to the second circuit.
- Notifications to the application - When the set water temperature is reached, the system sends a notification to the ANTIK SmartHome® application.
Small investment, big savings
The average Slovak household spends approximately 40–60% of its monthly electricity consumption on water heating – especially if it uses a classic electric boiler. In terms of conversion, this can mean up to €25–40 per month on hot water alone , or more than €300–450 per year .
Photovoltaic water heating is therefore a small but strategic investment that targets this largest cost item. A system with an output of up to 3 kW (connected to the boiler via an optimized inverter) can cover up to 80–100% of the DHW consumption during sunny months, and provide savings of €200–300 throughout the year - without the need for batteries or complex systems.
Moreover, the return on investment can be as little as 2–3 years , depending on the type of boiler, consumption and energy prices.
This makes photovoltaic water heating the ideal entry point for anyone who wants to start saving energy right away – without a large initial investment, without complicated installation and without additional maintenance.
On what principle does this device work?
The wiring diagram illustrates the basic connection between the panels, inverter and boiler, including the mains power supply and temperature sensor.
- The device uses direct current from dedicated solar panels and directly powers the boiler's heating element without the need for an inverter, batteries, or intervention in the electrical installation.
- The integrated MPPT inverter optimizes performance and switches between DC and AC sources as needed.
- The temperature sensor controls the heating and sends data to the ANTIK SmartHome® application.
Boiler as a low-cost alternative to battery storage
When considering how to efficiently harness solar energy, battery storage is often the first choice. Although it is an advanced solution, its purchase price, technical complexity, and maintenance requirements can sometimes be a barrier.
A simple and proven alternative is to use an existing boiler as an energy storage device – not in the form of electricity, but in the form of heat.
How it works:
In practice, this means that solar radiation is converted into direct current by photovoltaic panels, which is then fed directly to the boiler's heating coil via a DC converter. The electricity is immediately converted into heat - without passing through a mains converter, without feedback to the distribution network and without unnecessary conversions.
As a result, the water in the boiler is heated continuously during the day, while the sun is shining - without the need for intervention from the network. The heat remains safely "stored" in the tank and is available whenever the household needs it. This makes it possible to cover hot water consumption even in the evening or during inclement weather.
Self-installation suitable even for technically savvy users
The device is designed to allow for easy and safe installation without the need for a professional/electrician. With an emphasis on intuitive connection and the included instructions , ordinary technical skills and knowledge of working with low-voltage DC systems are sufficient.
The user can connect and operate the system independently, at a time that suits them, without additional installation costs. Installation does not require intervention in the electrical network or special tools - just follow the safety instructions and the wiring diagram. More information can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions for Technicians (FAQ) section.
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🔧 More demanding steps in terms of professional skills
Connecting direct current (DC) input from solar panels requires:
- correct polarity recognition (positive and negative wire) when connecting the string,
- compliance with safety principles when working with low-voltage direct current,
- use of the supplied MC4 connectors or terminal blocks according to the wiring diagram.
This is a standard electrical installation task comparable to connecting a smaller PV system or connecting DC components to a hybrid inverter.
🧱 Common steps that can be mastered even without practice
Most users can handle basic settings and installation even without previous experience with photovoltaics
- Mount the device on the wall using the included brackets.
- Connecting a WiFi network for integration into the Antik SmartHome application.
- Start and calibrate the system using the buttons on the device.
- Setting the heating logic within the mobile application.
For whom is DC water heating the ideal solution?
Not everyone wants to invest thousands in batteries or change the entire electrical installation system. DC water heating is a simple and affordable solution that will help you get the most out of your photovoltaics - without unnecessary technology, permits or worries . Ideal for anyone who wants hot water from the sun quickly, reliably and with minimal costs .
- Holiday cottages and off-grid properties - In locations without an electrical grid or with limited capacity, DC heating is a simple and reliable solution to provide hot water from solar energy - without a grid, without compromise.
- Households without battery storage - If you don't want to invest in expensive batteries, but want to make the most of your photovoltaics, a water heater as a "water battery" offers an affordable and maintenance-free way to store energy in the form of heat.
- Beginners with photovoltaics - For households that want to start with a solar system without major costs, DC water heating is the ideal first step - simple, efficient and with a quick payback.
Direct connection without intervention in the electrical installation
The ANTIK Smart DC water heater inverter is designed to connect directly to the DC output of photovoltaic panels. It does not require going through a grid inverter or connecting to the main house switchboard.
Thanks to its low-voltage architecture, its installation is simple, safe and does not affect the existing 230 V electrical installation.
Technical benefits of this solution:
- Minimal interference with the AC network – The device operates primarily from a DC input and its connection does not require modifications to the main electrical installation. The additional AC input serves only as a supplementary backup heating, not as a main source.
- No need for circuit breakers for the DC circuit – It operates within a safe voltage range and, if the recommended wiring is followed, there is no need to install separate circuit breakers or relays.
- Suitable for off-grid and hybrid systems - the ideal solution for simple photovoltaic installations without batteries.
- Compact and flexible module – easy to install and move as needed.
Download the ANTIK SmartHome® app
The ANTIK Smart DC water heating device offers convenient and precise control directly from your smartphone - via the ANTIK SmartHome® mobile application.
In the app you can:
- Monitor system performance – displays voltage, current, and power from PV panels in real time.
- Set the target water temperature and adjust the active heating time.
- Control the heating output according to the current input from the panels.
- Monitor both water and internal component temperatures with historical records.
- Record energy consumption
- Configure a photovoltaic system – including panel type and MPP range.
- Activate hygienic disinfection – select the temperature (e.g. 60–65 °C) and the repetition interval.
- Control backup heating – set the on/off temperatures and operating mode.
- Plan backup power – define the length and maximum power (up to 3000 W).
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Overview of instantaneous photovoltaic values
Display of current solar input parameters for optimizing water heating.
- Real-time voltage, current and power of PV panels
- Visualization of PV power and its use for DHW heating
- Continuous update of values during system operation
Hygienic disinfection of hot water
Safe and automated function for maintaining microbial cleanliness in the tank.
- Possibility to set the target temperature, e.g. 65 °C
- Configuring the number of days between disinfections
- Easy to enable or disable the function
Advanced heating and backup control
Flexible options to control performance and backup modes through the user interface.
- Power control according to inputs from PV plants
- Temperature limits for backup mode (On/Off)
- Option to disable or enable backup source
Multiple sensors and energy statistics
Comprehensive monitoring of temperatures and output power to optimize overall utilization.
- External and internal temperature sensor for accurate measurement
- Daily and total energy consumption for each output
- Recording grid and PV source separately
Backup heating power planning
Setting performance parameters and planning backup heating according to household needs.
- Maximum power adjustable up to 3000 W
- Manually setting the backup mode length
- Planning in hours and minutes for precise management
💬 Expert advises: ATK-PWH01
💡 "Systems that use direct current (DC) from solar panels directly to heat water achieve extremely high efficiency - up to 98%. The energy from the panels is directed directly to the heating element without any conversions, which minimizes losses and makes the entire process technically simpler, more stable and more affordable."
The big advantage of this solution is that it works independently of the electricity grid – without feedback, without back-up supply and without the need for grid synchronization. This is ideal for households without batteries or in areas where the possibility of connecting to the distribution grid is limited.
I recommend DC heating as a reliable and effective solution for anyone who wants to use photovoltaics simply, without complex interventions and with high benefits.
— Ing. Radoslav Lukáč, specialist in energy efficiency and solar solutions
FAQ – For users
Do I need a battery for the device to work?
No. The device works directly with the energy from the solar panels – when it is available. This means there is no need to install batteries or change the existing electrical installation. The solution is ideal for households looking for a simple and economical way to use photovoltaics without additional investments in storage.
Is the device compatible with my boiler?
In most cases, yes. The system is compatible with classic boilers that use an immersion heating coil. It is important to check the voltage and power of the coil - these determine how efficiently the heating will be. If you are not sure, we will help you assess suitability.
What maximum temperature can it reach?
The maximum temperature depends on the type of heating coil and the capacity of the boiler, but it usually ranges from 60 to 75 °C . In the application, you can set the target temperature as needed - for example, for normal daily consumption, or for hygienic water disinfection (e.g. to 65 °C).
The device also includes safety features that automatically regulate heating to prevent water overheating or damage to components.
Can this be combined with existing water heating?
Yes, the device allows parallel operation with your current system. The solar heating is activated automatically during the day when conditions are suitable, and your existing 230 V heating remains fully functional – as a supplementary source that ensures comfort without compromise.
FAQ – For Technicians
What is the method of installation on a wall or DIN rail?
The device is wall-mounted, actively cooled , with DIN rail or dowel mounting. The PV panels and spiral are connected via standard terminals. It is necessary to comply with the minimum strip fuse.
What power does the device operate with?
The maximum input power from photovoltaic panels is 3,000 W (DC) . It is recommended to size the PV string with a power of 2–3 kWp for optimal operation.
What DC input voltage range is supported?
The device operates with a DC input in the range of 120–450 VDC , ideally with an operating voltage of around 250–350 VDC . The string must be sized within the MPP range.
Is an MPPT controller or other DC/DC elements necessary?
No. The device has built-in MPP regulation and directly converts energy from the panels into heat - no external inverter or regulator is required.
How does the coil connect and what types are supported?
The device supports DC coils with a resistance power of 1.5–3 kW . Connection is made via the DC output terminals. The use of a classic 230 V coil with a suitable resistance is possible if it is also designed for DC operation.
