While the developing field of portable power generation in the outdoors has led to affordable ways for users to become less reliant on bulky and expensive devices or traditional disposable batteries, the WaterLily Turbine seems to be one of the first that uses flowing water to create energy.
Taking the concept of hydro power and building it into a portable model that is easy to throw into a car or backpack, the WaterLily Turbine is composed of a free-moving propeller inside a rugged frame with an anchor hook and waterproof cable emerging from it. This allows the turbine to be placed in any creek or river with a constant water flow and tied down and left while a power charge is transmitted through the cable. The benefits to a water turbine over the more common solar charging stations available for the outdoor set is that power can be generated around the clock and won''t be negatively impacted by clouds or shadows.
The WaterLily Turbine took us a couple uses to really get the hang of it, but once you''re familiar with it, the process of setting it up becomes quick. The makers of the turbine have improved upon previous models, refining the WaterLily Turbine''s an efficiency and generally user-friendly design for those who will be near the water.
In action: the WaterLily Turbine can be anchored to a fixed object and then left in the stream for the flow to power its propellers and generate the energy charge.
The anchoring system allows for the turbine to be tied to an object, while the turbine''s shape holds it in position perpendicular to the waterflow, maximizing energy production in any depth. And while at first it''s a bit nerve wracking to drop the turbine into a fast-moving river held only a thin cord tied to something beside the water, the turbine rights itself and stays at the top of the water with the propeller in a perpendicular position the maximizes the energy flow.
While it is a bit heavy for casual hikers, it seems ideal for campers who will be set up near a stream or river, those who may be spending a day or weekend on the river fishing or hanging out, and homesteaders who have a source of waterflow nearby.
The turbine isn''t super lightweight, however is small and light enough for easy portability and placement.
In addition, there are several accessories available that would come in useful in more specialized situations, including a small hand crank so that the turbine can be used to create a charge in places or situations where there is no water (which is a useful option to have in the event of an emergency), a waterproof dry bag fitted to run the cable into a water-free container safe for electronic devices, an adapter to a car charger output just to add more versatility to the items that can be charged, and an inflatable float which will hold the turbine up in areas where there is a slower water flow.
Plug your device into the turbine''s USB output.
The WaterLily Turbine is bulkier and takes a little more effort to use than solar chargers, though after getting acquainted with it, the turbine adds a good amount of power generating versatility, as well as a 24-hour energy source, to those who carry it. It''s great for setting up and attaching a power bank or device to overnight and waking up to a full charge. Those who fish, camp, head to the river for the afternoon, or who live near a stream or river would benefit the most from the WaterLily Turbine.
Set the WaterLily Turbine in the water flow and run the charging cable to a dry surface nearby.We typically have a power bank at the end of our charge for easy grab and go with any of our devices.Set it and forget it - the WaterLily Turbine in use can be left to charge your devices, including overnight or while you''re off doing something else.
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I''ve relied on solar-powered battery banks as my primary charging device for the majority of my outdoor and off-grid ventures – charging everything from cellphones, cameras, and radios, to lights and electric stoves.
Whether it''s for charging cellphones and cameras on a day hike, or for providing long-term power to a remote, off-grid sanctuary, this river-powered turbine will provide you with energy more reliably and consistently than solar batteries.
Seaformatics is a Canadian company that specializes in hydropower technology and has spent 10 years perfecting a portable device that can generate energy through River Power.
The WaterLily Turbine is the result of the dedication of CEO Andrew Cook, who sought to create technology that can provide energy through nature, whether it be for work, recreation, or off-grid living.
Now, the WaterLily is being used in more than 50 countries worldwide.
Hydropower turbines generate energy as water flows through the blades, causing them to spin. This energy is then converted into electricity.
The WaterLily is designed to work in areas where water is flowing at a constant speed, like a river or a stream. Thus, providing constant energy as long as it remains in motion.
It has stainless steel lanyards that are used to secure the device to a fixed object such as a rock or tree branch, allowing the WaterLily to absorb the full force of the river while remaining suspended.
A ten-foot power cord connects the electricity generated from the WaterLily to any device that needs to be charged, whether it be a phone, tablet, or power bank.
The WaterLily works great for generating continuous energy if a stream or source of flowing water is nearby.
It is important to note that in order to reach 15W, the WaterLily must be placed in water that is flowing at a minimum of 7 miles per hour. The less powerful the flow of water, the less energy produced.
The WaterLily is the perfect off-grid energy device for anyone who seeks sustainable energy and is nearby a river or stream. Its portability allows it to be transportable in a pack and easily deployed as needed.
For a backpacker or overnight camper, it can easily serve as a quick energy source to power up all your small devices. For the more long-term, off-grid homesteader, the WaterLily can also serve as a more permanent energy source in the right location.
The WaterLily has two power options: a USB version and a 12V version. The USB version comes with a USB adapter for all USB-compatible devices and charges up to 15W. The 12V version comes with an SAE connector and can charge up to 14.6V. The 12V version can also be daisy-chained with multiple turbines for additional power.
The USB version might be more suitable for backpackers and campers while the 12V version might be more suitable for those seeking a more long-term, off-grid establishment.
Teddy B. - verified buyerAwesome Piece of Machinery!I am completely amazed by My WaterLily. I was looking for a device that could give me extensive power return beyond my solar panels. Not only does the WaterLily fit the bill, it provides two of my three-pillar approaches to acquiring energy for camping or in the case of emergency... An absolute gamechanger in expedient charging! Thanks Folks!
The WaterLily Turbine is the perfect device for the backpacker, outdoor enthusiast, and off-grid homesteader to utilize the power of water and have a sustainable energy source. With two different power options, you can choose to either have a USB power cord for charging compatible devices at 15W, or a 12V version which allows for daisy-chaining multiple WaterLilies for more power. Order yours today.
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About Waterlily water turbine
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