- #1
arabianights
- 68
- 8
just wondering...
Is it possible to build a windmill at home?
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the feasibility of building a windmill at home, focusing on various applications such as power generation, ornamental use, and mechanical functions like water pumping. Participants explore different models, resources, and considerations involved in constructing a windmill.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
- Experimental/applied
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that building a windmill is feasible, depending on its intended size and purpose.
- One participant mentions a model that could be used for small-scale power generation, potentially yielding up to 1kW output.
- Links to various resources are provided, including guides for constructing small wind generators and considerations for backyard installations.
- Questions are raised about the specific purpose of the windmill, such as whether it is for ornamental use, mechanical power, or electrical generation.
- Some participants emphasize the importance of understanding local regulations and building codes that may affect the height and installation of a windmill.
- One participant references a fully printable wind turbine model, indicating interest in 3D printing technology for construction.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a mix of interest and uncertainty regarding the specifics of building a windmill, with no consensus on the best approach or model. Different viewpoints on the feasibility and requirements for power generation remain present.
Contextual Notes
Participants highlight the need to consider local regulations, building codes, and the specific purpose of the windmill, which may influence design and functionality. There is also mention of varying power output based on height and other factors.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in renewable energy, DIY projects, or home power generation may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
SteamKing
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 12,828
- 1,673
Sure! What's so difficult? It all comes down to how big you want it to be.
Here is one nifty model:
http://www.kotulas.com/deals/Produc...=Outdoor-Living-Lawn-Garden&utm_content=43819
Here is one nifty model:
http://www.kotulas.com/deals/Produc...=Outdoor-Living-Lawn-Garden&utm_content=43819
- #3
rootone
- 3,398
- 945
If you have in mind a windmill for power generation, small ones are possible
Proof of concept, and some links to other interesting stuff.:
http://www.treehugger.com/wind-technology/how-make-small-backyard-wind-power-generator.html
What is shown there might be able to harvest enough wind energy for a small outdoor lighting system.
You could probably scale something like that up to around 1kW max output.
Proof of concept, and some links to other interesting stuff.:
http://www.treehugger.com/wind-technology/how-make-small-backyard-wind-power-generator.html
What is shown there might be able to harvest enough wind energy for a small outdoor lighting system.
You could probably scale something like that up to around 1kW max output.
- #4
rootone
- 3,398
- 945
Here's a link to the original source.
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-make-a-small-wind-generator-In-celebration/
The previous one was OK, but the site above is a better one generally.
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-make-a-small-wind-generator-In-celebration/
The previous one was OK, but the site above is a better one generally.
- #5
berkeman
Admin
- 69,488
- 25,014
arabianights said:
What do you want to have the windmill do? Will it just be ornamental (spins in the wind), or do you want to use its mechanical power to help pump water up out of a well underneath it? Or do you want to connect a generator and battery charger to give you some extra electrical energy? And if the latter, would you be wanting to connect to the grid to sell your excess power to the power utility company (this option has a much longer answer)?
- #6
arabianights
- 68
- 8
yes, I'm thinking about generating power using windmill. not that I'm going to install one in my backyard, but i'd like to know how to achieve it if the need arises
- #7
berkeman
Admin
- 69,488
- 25,014
arabianights said:
You can get a lot of information by googling something like homebrew power generation windmill. Also, contact your local power utility company for information on what is required to connect your home power generation to the grid -- they have rules and regulations for how it is done. They also will inspect and approve your connection equipment when you have it ready to connect to the grid.
- #8
- 11,326
- 8,755
The power output of a windmill increases a lot the higher it is above the ground. But you will run into height limits due to local building codes or even the FAA. Investigate that too as part of your planning.
- #9
Lavoie005
- 7
- 0
Reprap wind turbine is a full printable wind turbine.
Great to know and understant how build wind turbine.
Great to know and understant how build wind turbine.