Wouldn't it be nice if there were a way
to convert wood-stove or campfire heat into electricity for phones
or other USB appliances? We thought so! Our research on
thermoelectric generators (TEG's) led us to a few available products
in the online market, including the BioLite -and a few other
slapped-together peltier module units. Initially, the BioLite
seemed like a neat idea, but
what about for indoor use too? After this previous blizzard knocked
the power out at our main cabin, the novelty of a TEG seemed to
transform into something more practical. And
that's exactly where I'm headed....
 |
Simply
stated, the PowerPot V
(when filled with cold water) generates 5V of up to 5W at 1A
electricity using heat from a stove, campfire, or any significant
heat source. (great for charging phones, mp3 players, usb
battery banks, led lights, and other usb powered devices)
Quick
Specs:
-Constructed
of hard anodized aluminum
-Lid/bowl included
-1.2 Liter filling capacity
-capable of up to 5W /1A power output
-1.2 Liter filling capacity
-capable of up to 5W /1A power output
-heat
resistant USB output adapter & cable
-LED
charge indicator gauge
-carrying bag included
Operation:
The
PowerPot uses the temperature differential between cold fluid and a
heat source to generate electricity. As we confirmed during our use
of this product, the colder the liquid and the hotter the fire (or
greater difference between the cold and heat) – the more charge is
generated. The PowerPot charge controller will fluctuate between 1W
and 5W of power depending on this temperature difference. We've been
using snow and cold stream water so far, and both those seem to work
best for us (usually around 3W).
The
included instructions provided a basis of information as to how to
properly use and operate this device for maximum efficiency. A more
thorough explanation “how” thermoelectric generators work can be
read at this page on Power Practicals website:
https://powerpractical.com/pages/how-do-thermoelectrics-work
Because
the difference between hot & cold temperature is required for
operation, the water in the PowerPot needs to be replaced with fresh
cool water after it comes close to boiling.
Devices
plugged:
-my
iPhone 4s
-my
RCA Cambio hybrid tablet (which can charge via micro-usb)
-my wife's iPhone 5s
-my wife's iPhone 5s
-a
usb-powered fan
-a
usb battery bank
 |
| Xtreme Elements Test: ~Read on below! |
Precautions
and Xtreme usage:
As
shown in our demonstration video, the PowerPot will generate
electricity fast when used according to the manufacturer's operating
instructions. The PowerPot can be used on virtually any heat source,
but should not be engulfed in flames. While the unit and cords are
“heat-resistant” they are not fireproof. The PowerPot also needs
to be handled with care as to not damage its internal components from
temperature shock after use. This means allowing a proper “cool-down”
period after removing from the heat source.
With
that noted, we opted to break the rules and see what this unit can
really handle! ;)
Against the manufacturer's recommendation, we made ourselves a little direct flame campfire out in the snow. We engulfed the PowerPot V in flames while feeding it fresh snow. Immediately upon setting the snow-filled pot on the flames – we had 3W of power to my iPhone. I continued this Xtreme element test for about 20 minutes, feeding the pot with fresh snow when the charge would drop to 2W – and mindlessly removing the pot from the flame and setting it on an ice cold rock >>>NOT RECOMMENDED.
Against the manufacturer's recommendation, we made ourselves a little direct flame campfire out in the snow. We engulfed the PowerPot V in flames while feeding it fresh snow. Immediately upon setting the snow-filled pot on the flames – we had 3W of power to my iPhone. I continued this Xtreme element test for about 20 minutes, feeding the pot with fresh snow when the charge would drop to 2W – and mindlessly removing the pot from the flame and setting it on an ice cold rock >>>NOT RECOMMENDED.
Besides
some intense soot buildup on the bottom of the pot unit, everything
remained functional (however, I have no way of knowing how
much -if any- damage I may have incurred on the internal components
of the PowerPot by abusing it like this).
After
Thoughts:
The
PowerPot V is precisely what I had hoped it to be for being able to
take heat from my wood stove and generate a charge for my USB
devices. While some might be offset by the price (direct from
PowerPractical at $99), it certainly is a practical tool to have
handy for these winter weather power outages, as well as a way to
keep one's usb devices charged when off the grid or while camping.
And after this recent blizzard that left 3ft of snow and regional
blackouts in our area, I'm glad to have this PowerPot standing by.
Disclosure:
Work'n Man's Life received a sample PowerPot V from Power Practical
for this review. The opinions expressed in this blog are solely those
of the author and have in no way been influenced by or reflect those
of Power Practical.
No comments:
Post a Comment