DIY Load Diverter

Diversion loads are a great way to deal with excess power generation.

In a solar or other renewable energy system, power is generated when it is available. But the problem is that this power needs a place to go when it's created. If your battery banks and other loads have all the electricity they can handle, you will need to divert the load to a separate device or element that can use up the excess generated electricity. Instead of shunting or opening the circuit, divert it to the water heater.

Things You'll Need

• Renewable energy system
• Charge controller with load diversion outlet
• Water heater

Instructions

1. Connect your solar, wind, micro hydro or other renewable energy system to its charge controller with the diversion output examined for voltage.

2. Select a standard water heater that matches the output voltage, electricity type (alternating or direct current) and plug it into the charge controller.

3. Close the outlet valve on the body of the water heater and fill the water heater with water through the inlet valve, then close it off as well. When the charge controller receives more power than is demanded from the loads on the system, it will divert electricity to the water heater, dissipating the excess electrical charge into heat stored in the water.

Tips & Warnings

• Connect the inlet and outlet plumbing of the water heater diversion load to your domestic hot water to utilize if you like.

• Size your system based on your loads rather than creating a system that produces more power than you need, or add more loads to the system.

References

• Survival Unlimited: Diversion Loads
• Hot Wire: Divert Loads
• Habiter: Dale's Solar Energy System