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FAQ
General Information
What is a fuel cell?
A fuel cell is a galvanic cell that converts the energy created by the chemical reaction between a constant stream of fuel and an oxidant into electrical energy. The underlying principle is an electrochemical process that is also known as "cold combustion". It is in principle the reversal of electrolysis. A fuel cell is not an energy store but a converter that generates electricity. The energy required to produce electricity comes from the fuel.
How does the EFOY COMFORT fuel cell work?
The EFOY COMFORT fuel cell converts the fuel in the fuel cartridge directly into electrical current. Thanks to this direct conversion, which is performed with no moving parts, silently and environmentally friendly, the fuel cell is extremely efficient and clean.
How it works.
Can I use the EFOY COMFORT fuel cell in hybrid operation with a solar energy system?
Why should I buy an EFOY COMFORT fuel cell when there are solar cells?
Solar energy is a fascinating subject, but solar energy systems only work when the sun shines direct on the solar module, i.e. without any shadowing effects and at the correct angle of incidence. This is not the case in most situations e.g. because of clouds, at night, due to fog, rain, snowfall, in the shade of trees etc. An EFOY COMFORT fuel cell will supply between three and ten times the amount of electricity as a solar energy system with the same output over the course of a year. To produce the same amount of electricity as an EFOY COMFORT 80 (40 W) with solar power, depending on the country and time of year, you would need a solar energy system with an output of between 120 and 400 Wp.
Why should I buy an EFOY COMFORT fuel cell when there are petrol- or diesel-powered generators?
Generators are very loud and do not just disturb your own relaxation but also that of your neighbours. The emissions that they produce cause an unpleasant smell and are environmentally harmful. In contrast, the EFOY COMFORT is as quiet as a whisper and environmentally friendly – which is good for you and for the environment.
How many fuel cells are in use and are customers satisfied with the EFOY fuel cell?
SFC has already sold more than 37,000 EFOY fuel cells, which are in use day in, day out. The total operating time of all units amounts to over 10 million hours.
In a survey of 955 EFOY owners, 93% of those questioned were satisfied with their EFOY fuel cells and would recommend them to other potential customers.
Why are there several models in the EFOY COMFORT range?
Customers' performance requirements vary depending on usage profile, personal needs, type and power consumption of the appliance and environmental conditions etc. EFOY products with varying levels of output offer the customers the choice and opportunity to purchase the fuel cell that matches their needs.
Which EFOY fuel cell matches my needs?
Please have a look here Which model?
Installation / operation
How is the EFOY COMFORT installed?
Installation is performed by an authorised dealer, or the unit comes pre-installed with your boat or mobile home.
Dealer search.
How much waste heat is produced?
The level of waste heat depends on the ambient temperature, which is why there is no simple answer to the question. The heat (measured in watts) is approximately three times as high as the electrical energy (rated power) generated by the unit. For example, an EFOY COMFORT 80 fuel cell produces approximately 120 W of heat.
Does the exhaust air contain just water and CO2?
The exhaust air may also contain traces of methanol and methanol-based waste products. The quantities and concentration of these are below the legal thresholds. IMPORTANT: Always expel exhaust air into the open. Inhaling the exhaust air or drinking the water may be harmful to your health. The exhaust air contains no CO (carbon monoxide) or NOx (nitrogen oxide).
What safety standards does the EFOY COMFORT fuel cell meet?
The EFOY COMFORT fuel cell meets the highest standards of safety and quality, including regulations governing installation in motor vehicles. It is the world's first fuel cell to be certified in accordance with ECE-R10 (installation and operation in motor vehicles), CE and "Safety-tested and production-monitored fuel cell system" awarded by TÜV SÜD.
Consumption / Fuel Cartridge
Why is it not possible to refill the fuel cartridges (either myself or through a third party) ? --> When will there be a refill solution available for fuel cartridges?
Why does SFC use methanol and not gas or some other form of fuel?
SFC has focused on the proven direct methanol fuel cell. This technology does not require the fuel to be converted into hydrogen in a very complex and elaborate process as is the case with e.g. propane or butane gas. A further advantage is the high energy density of methanol and the use of fuel cartridges as means of storage. One M10 cartridge weighs only 8.4 kg (18.5 lbs)and provides a capacity of 920 Ah (which corresponds to more than 250 kg (550 lbs)of lead batteries).
Temperature
What is the temperature range in which the fuel cell operates?
We guarantee safe operation in an ambient temperature range of -20 °C to +40 °C (-4° F to +104° F).
Should you require a power source to operate under more extreme conditions, please contact sales@sfc.com.
What happens above +40 °C (104 °F), which is considered to be the maximum temperature?
The unit interrupts the charge function and starts once more fully automatically once the temperature falls. This prevents damage to the fuel cell. Should you use the fuel cell at high temperatures for long periods of time, please contact sales@sfc.com.
Purchase questions
Warranty
Does SFC provide a warranty for the EFOY COMFORT fuel cell?
The EFOY COMFORT fuel cell meets the highest quality standards. We guarantee it. For more details go to Warranty.
Service
Can an EFOY COMFORT fuel cell be repaired if it is defective?
Yes. We can repair your fuel cell at our location in Brunnthal near Munich when necessary. For futher information please see Service.
Why should I perform a regular update?
A new update is not essential, but fuel cells are being continuously improved and you are welcome to benefit from this. Further information can be found at Updater.
Why do I need the service fluid? What is it exactly?
Service fluid is delivered with your EFOY fuel cell. Thanks to SFC's patented water recovery system, fluid is recovered in a closed circuit. Over a long period of operation with high external temperatures a part of this fluid may evaporate, and the fuel cell will indicate that it requires service fluid. It is recommended to always have a bottle with you. Never fill up more than one bottle, and only when the fuel cell indicates that it really needs it (via the control panel).
