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View Full Version : Ask the experts about homemade wind turbine questions


penlope
Dec 11, 2009, 09:15 AM
I have a treadmill motor that I'm using for a wind turbine. The specs are 125volt-18.8amps-@ 3600rpm, and is a 2.5hp. I'm using a blocking diode and a charge controller that has a dump load for charging the batteries. I need to know if I can use my electric 1500 watt heater for my dump load? If so could I wire the electric heater directly from the generator? If my math is correct 125volts x 18.8amps=2350 watts. Is the 1500 watt heater o.k. to use for both applacations? Any help would be appreated. THANKS.

InfoJunkie4Life
Dec 13, 2009, 12:24 PM
I would think so. At 120v the heater is designed so that when the temperature reaches a certain point, the resistivity in the wires blocks any further increase in amperage. You have no risk of burning out the heater.

I believe it is sufficient enough, as most that I've seen are only around 300 watts.