Pearson Yachts Forum
Pearson Boats - Common Systems => Electrical Systems & Electronics => Topic started by: Dulcinea on November 21, 2013, 05:24:59 PM
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Was wondering if anyone has recent experience with wind generators as part of your overall charging system - what model do you have, how is it working, would you recommend it?, etc. Remarks from Air Breeze, Superwind 350, or KISS unit owners especially appreciated.
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I have a 400W Air-X that came with the boat. It's been trouble-free for 5 seasons.
The PO bought it for an extended stay in the Bahamas. There, with daily +15kt breezes at anchor, it made sense. He frequently saw outputs of 30Amps, and was able to operate his cold plate 24/7 without having to plug-in anywhere.
Here on the Chesapeake, with our light-air summers, its a different matter. On a typical sail (when there's enough wind to sail), I see about 4 or 5 amps out of it. Not much, but it's basically enough to offset the power used by the radio, GPS, and autopilot.
I'm glad I have it, but would have never spent my limited boat-bucks on one for just here on the Chesapeake. Solar panels would make much more sense.
Depending on your location and intended destinations, YMMV! :)
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Thanks Ed. According to my research the Air X gets high marks. Somewhat pricier ($1135 at eMarine systems.com) than some of the others but maybe worth the extra $. The only way to really know is talk to those who have direct experience. We have a similar problem with wind on the Long Island Sound much of the time, but the wind turbine is good in combination with my solar and alternator as a more complete charging system.