Wind Generator?
Does anybody use a wind generator? Vs... solar? Has anyone already worked out the pro's - con's? Thanks,
Forum Discussion
I'll give a sailors perspective on wind. Boondocking is much like cruising on a sailing yacht. Solar panels are preferred but you need real estate to place them which limits output. Wind works when solar does not and takes up little horizontal space. Some yachties operate two wind generators at once, along with multiple solar panels. If there is no sun then there is wind. So a combination of these two energy sources works very well. Furthermore, winter time camping requires power that solar often can't meet due to low sun angles, and that time of year is windy. The two charging methods do work well together.
Cheap wind generators are loud and obnoxious and justifiable grounds for homicide. Good wind generators are quiet and make for happy neighbors There are only two really quiet wind generators. The D400 is heavy but well made and quiet. And the Super Wind which is the most popular model among yachties today. It would be my choice. The blade set on the Suoer Wind cost $360as these are wind tunnel perfected carbon fiber blades and worth every penny.
While it is true that it takes a few minutes to set it up and take it down, and it can't be used while driving around, these wind units do produce significant power at higher wind speeds--power that should not be ignored. RV'er can choose windy sites to camp in, as well as sunny spots. Consider that if these generators can produce enough power to cool you freezer and refrigerator your energy needs are drastically reduced. Few solar arrays can power both a refrigerator and all the normal house loads.
If you boondock for extended periods, wind power supplements solar very well.
Finally, any yachtsman can tell you that it is important to have multiple charging sources. At least two and three or four is better.
Cheap wind generators are loud and obnoxious and justifiable grounds for homicide. Good wind generators are quiet and make for happy neighbors There are only two really quiet wind generators. The D400 is heavy but well made and quiet. And the Super Wind which is the most popular model among yachties today. It would be my choice. The blade set on the Suoer Wind cost $360as these are wind tunnel perfected carbon fiber blades and worth every penny.
While it is true that it takes a few minutes to set it up and take it down, and it can't be used while driving around, these wind units do produce significant power at higher wind speeds--power that should not be ignored. RV'er can choose windy sites to camp in, as well as sunny spots. Consider that if these generators can produce enough power to cool you freezer and refrigerator your energy needs are drastically reduced. Few solar arrays can power both a refrigerator and all the normal house loads.
If you boondock for extended periods, wind power supplements solar very well.
Finally, any yachtsman can tell you that it is important to have multiple charging sources. At least two and three or four is better.
