How To Make A Windmill

With stock windmills costing between $15,000 and $25,000, even for a domestic unit, it is worth considering how to make a windmill for oneself.  It is very easy and can be done for less than $200.

For this sort of money you will not get a very large windmill, but the potential savings on your electricity bills will still be very significant.

Before starting to build your own windmill you should do some research:

  • Local average wind speed. Windmills do not work very well in average winds under 10 mph. The US Government publishes detailed wind resource maps, which should be consulted before making a windmill.
  • Building Codes. Find out if you will be allowed to build the type of windmill you want. For a small windmill you probably will be OK, but it’s best to make sure.
  • Available windmill space. For a small windmill you should allow about half an acre.
  • Next-door neighbors. Consult neighbors first about your ideas, and prepare to overcome any prejudices about possible noise, TV interference and so on.
  • Windmill size. The generating capacity of your windmill should not exceed your electricity useage. The utility company does not have to buy any surplus from you, only offset against your grid consumption.
  • Batteries. If you want some independence from the grid you will need to include storage batteries. It is possible to get these for nothing if you know where to look. Or you might decide to use your windmill simply as a way of reducing your draw on the grid supply.

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These are some of the reasons why it is often best to seek advice from windmill experts when planning to build your own windmill. You will then be able to select the right plans for your circumstances, and these need to include comprehensive lists of materials and clear assembly instructions.

Small windmills have only a few components. Typically these are:

  • A propeller (usually 3 propeller blades fixed to a hub)
  • A DC motor
  • A fantail
  • An axle to which these are fitted
  • A tower
  • Probably an inverter (to convert DC to AC)
  • Storage batteries

With some electrical wiring and a few fasteners you will have everything needed to build your own windmill. You probably have most of the necessary parts in your shed but, even if you have to buy everything, you should be able to assemble all you need for less than $200. Even a diy novice can put together a small windmill and fit it in a weekend.

Details about how to make a windmill are available from a number of sources, and you can get a set of good-quality plans for very little money. From our own experience the best source of expertise is GreenDIYenergy – their diy windmill kit contains plans, step-by-step instructions, diagrams, professional advice and guidance.  Very good value, very popular, and thoroughly recommended.

Have lots of fun building your windmill and enjoying all that free electricity!

 

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