Adding second heating element to Lochnivar solar water heater

[Cgyacht]

Hello All and thanks in advance for any advice. I have a Lochnivar 80 gallon tank with solar panel on my roof. It has a a 4500 watt upper heating element. Is it possible to install a second element in the bottom of the tank as there seems to be a place for it. I want to cut out the solar portion but just the upper element in the tank will not be enough. I would like to install a second lower element in the same manner as if I had a dual element water heater.

Does anyone have any experience with this or know if this is possible. I know I will need another thermostat and element, etc.

Thank you very much

 

[John Gayewski]

I would consult the manufacturer.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Fitter30]

Model of the tank

 

[Cgyacht]

Model of the tank

It is a Lochnivar FTA082KS 110 with capacity 80 gallons with solar. Element and thermostat at the upper area 4500watt.
Thank you Filter30!!

 

[Fitter30]

Can only use one but heres a 6000 watt element draws 25 amps need 10 gauge wire 30 amp breaker

Amazon.com

 

[hj]

Usually the llower boss is a dummy for a temperature sensing thermistor. There is no opening behind it for an element. Connect the hot outlet to the drain valve opening and you will have a rudimentary circulation loop to heat the whole tank.