Part 17 MicroHydro Power System in CO

If you wish to donate: www.paypal.me/... or click the Super Thanks button under the video
MAXING LOAD, how we maximized the flow of water and added load to maximize our power for heating. Also about keeping the water flowing throughout Winter.
Coanda Screen link: www.elginwaters...

[@marlowel2555]

THIS, RIGHT HERE IS WHY THE INTERNET WAS INVENTED... INCREDIBLY INSPIRING.

[@mrhydrohead]

MARLOWE L It’s nice to receive such an enthusiastic comment. I believe the internet is an effective means to share knowledge in a detailed effective manner. Thx for watching and the kind comment. If you haven’t yet, check out parts 20-1,2,3 for a synopsis of the whole project.

[@mrhydrohead]

PAUL LIPKE No, not engineering. I worked as a Cinematographer in LA for decades. Music Videos, commercials, docs, features and tv series. It's a job where everyday you work out rigging, lighting, logistical, and scheduling problems. Build things up and tear them down all day long. It's a great position to absorb lots of practical skills. And you never stop learning if you're any good at it. I'm glad you enjoyed the series. Thx again for watching.

[@JamesDoylesGarage]

Exactly :)

[@ricardomontalban6004]

PAUL LIPKE PARDON?

[@JesusIsaFlatEarther]

@@mrhydrohead As for the benefits of the internet, Daniel 12:4 talks about knowledge increasing in the end times. One indication of this is the reemerging knowledge/science that the Earth truly is as the Bible described it, motionless and flat and it's the sun and moon that mover over the flat plane. On a spinning ball, how could water ever run down hill, there is not true down and up on TNASA/SATAN's spinning theoretical ball.

[@GadgetAddict]

That was incredibly interesting. Many challenges but you kept pushing through. It generates more power than I'd have expected.

[@ProstetnicVogonJeltz]

This is fantastic. I want to move to Colorado, and having off-grid abundant power is one of my core focuses. In this one video you've shown me solutions, and answered a bunch of questions I had looming in my mind, concerning keeping the water flowing to turn the turbine, no matter the ambient temperature. Sterling work!

[@mrhydrohead]

It’s a full series if you don’t know. I never know how much people have seen. Check out parts 20-1,2,3 for a synopsis of the whole thing. Thx for watching

[@miguelmarquez4192]

Visit and experience colorado! Solar is excellent as we have a sunny state, wind is also abundant due to our topography. This video is inspiring but as ive shared water can be very touchy and there are alot of rules to using it because other people locally and other states have already purchased shares for that resource. We arent allowed to divert the rivers here so im doubtful of the legitimacy of his rig unless he paid hefty prices for permits.

[@MrShonky01]

" being able to live in nature warm & off grid energy sufficient ! " The dream coming ever closer !! love this statement.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@simonslocombe5942]

The shear effort some people go to produce such amazing videos gives us all ideas for our system cuts out so much guess work, time, money and effort. A good example is the stainless steel screen directing the water flow at 45 degrees and screw holes to vent trapped air... so simple but so effective. Thank You...

[@mrhydrohead]

You are most welcome. Thx for watching

[@TheKandyGuy]

You guy's have done a marvels job, it is nothing make you happy when you stand up on your own feet, it is lot of work but you guys did it, there is light at the end of the tunnel, keep up the good work and make the planet we live green for ever.

[@mrhydrohead]

+Anura Yapabandara Thanks for watching and the kind comment. It is very satisfying.

[@johnb5519]

I had a cousin who made something similar. He fastened a long length of pvc pipe along the rock face of a river that flowed through his property. It had quite a bit of fall and worked perfectly. He even powered a sawmill with it. Unfortunately he passed away a few years ago. He was a real pioneer.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching and sharing

[@The__Outlaw]

Watching this was absolutely fascinating. I Love the thought process behind your Micro Hydro Electric Power System. And the trial and error and solutions of your project.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@planetarytapestry8092]

So enjoyable and informative. I am just starting my off grid journey. I have lived both off and on for many years, but am finally in sight of my home. All videos are so helpful. Thank You

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching

[@julmaj1479]

Can't believe I just watched 10 minutes of water filter screen cleaning and water flow. Yet in the end I am amazed of that nice place you got there. Such a cool little creek.

[@leewilkerson8185]

This is the first video of this series I've found. These are answers to the questions I will also have asked when I begin to use falling water for power. Thank you tremendously!

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching. Glad you find it of value

[@modulaas3440]

That takes extreme dedication if you spent over a year recording this. You deserve a lot more recognition.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching. It’s been a labor of love making the videos 🙏🏼😉

[@dingus153]

I just binge watched all your videos and I have no idea why, I have no interest in doing this myself but it's just so damn interesting...

[@NixonRexzile-xz4sq]

the reason you are interested is because you realize you are paying something that is completely free from the nature.

[@NixonRexzile-xz4sq]

@dramamine69 you didn't understand what I said

[@cognatoralbertl9366]

me to. you must have read my mind.

[@shortchanged.]

So it ant for the free porn .??!!

[@luisflores7930]

@Ryan Plethra From HOUSTON TX

[@andypowell7844]

This has to be the best made video for micro hydro that I've ever seen. Thanks so much for your efforts in making, editing and updating the video. There are some great time-saving tips and I'll definitely try to learn from your R&D. I'm now in South East Asia and I have a river crossing my lower acre, which my neighbours use for personal hygiene and laundry. It floods for half the year so I plan to build a tall concrete enclosure and sluice in the middle of the stream in our coming dry season. I'll build a walkway, higher than the flood level so I can access it for maintenance (screen cleaning). Once it's installed, I hope to make enough power for my home and to light the roadway and riverside, to improve my neighbours lives.

[@mrhydrohead]

Fantasic! glad my notes are of some worth. Every installation has different parameters and challenges. Micro hydro is fantastic if you have a site that works. The difficulty is finding the right place. There are new designs that broaden the possibilities. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYqWoWWbZpKehJY Turbulent wasn't around when I got started in 1996. I think their design is great. I just wish they had a larger market penetration. I don't think they have a large number of installed units yet. The low head/high flow approach is something that can be applied in so many places. When you think about it, moving water is the largest collective of kinetic solar energy on earth. Wind and solar pales in comparison. Thanks for watching.

[@paulmlally1]

I love the way you worked out the kinks in the problem of the air going back up inside the pipe. Its wonderful to see an engineer at work. Thank you for this lesson in fluid dynamics and ecology.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@notamouse5630]

The alternative to a screen is a "small gravel" filter that is very wide to have a large coarse grained surface area. Use 6-10mm sized gravel 2-4 inches deep for roughly optimal flow and clean-ability. It will take longer to clean, but it will be once in a long while. You clean it by stirring it with a pitchfork or similar while directing the flow through it and then out of your system to avoid sudden contamination. For cleaning pipes, create a crude waterproof robot (flow riding with battery powered spinning brushes to ride the pipes and clean them kind of like how oil pipelines do it.

[@kurtjensen7264]

The world needs more people like yourself. Thank you very much.

[@mrhydrohead]

Most welcome, Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@dudebruhdude]

Awesome dude! Your seriously doing it in sub zero temps. That's awesome, and thank you for posting this video

[@albertrichter2996]

Wonderful, not only your inventive use for the Welded-screen, but also for the many ideas such a screen could fulfill over time.

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching

[@paularata2886]

Rediscovering that water will flow up through a pipe and displace air. Beautiful!

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching. If you haven't seen it check out parts 20-1,2,3 which are a synopsis of it all

[@JaakkoF]

Not only great experimenting and execution and living your dream, your sound and style of speech is so soothing to listen. It is like watching a nature documentary. Keep up the good work and enjoy freetings from an icy Finnish nature :)

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for the compliment and thanks for watching. Hopefully more to come in the spring

[@carlos_sacalul]

I'm impressed with everything you've done. Thank you for sharing a lot of knowledge in all of this video. It really is an energy system for many years. I would have liked to have a running water near my house. I have a generator and a turbine built from the hoby but I have no place to use them. Until then I use 1kw solar power system so about 6kw / day. I wish you many years to enjoy the hydro project. All the best

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for watching. Good for you on the solar!

[@markuseriksson4535]

I've watched all your movies and it really makes me happy to see someone succeed so incredibly well with project! Good work! from Sweden

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks so much Markus

[@richardalvis4695]

I live on a tidal river. Gonna do something with a waterwheel and gear ratios. Good luck and thank you for sharing your story.

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching. I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA Best of luck with your project.

[@GriffoNZL]

I just watched all of this video series from start to finish and have to say well done!!! And thank you for documenting all your efforts. You have a beautiful home and property and this series is very inspirational. Thanks again, from New Zealand.

[@mrhydrohead]

Hey thanks so much. Was just sitting here when your comment popped up. Glad you found it interesting. We ARE so very fortunate.

[@fynbo1007]

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. It has been a exciting journey to follow you

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for watching. It has taken time and I appreciate the audience patience. More to come.

[@fynbo1007]

MrHydrohead thank you for your answer, have you consider video without music. I find your information important enough to stand alone. I have seen so many video without and find them amazing.

[@jootuupi]

These videos are enjoyable, entertaining and informative to watch. Scenery and engineering is great!

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoy.

[@danwilkinson2797]

That is such a beautiful place you are in there . I hope all the very best to you and your projects.

[@corgraveland4874]

This was absolutely a fascinating lecture on your experience with Micro Hydro Electric Power System. Liked the trial and error and superb solutions you found.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx 🙏🏼 for watching

[@Oblationem]

Yes a great idea. I bought property that is good for small scale grain growing and because I don't have large farming equipment, I made a deal with a neighbor to share-crop my property. One can make good friends by meeting your neighbors and helping one another out...

[@claystone7729]

That is Dream to have a Setup like that. Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery and fresh air. God Bless and thank you for sharing.

[@mrhydrohead]

thanks for watching.

[@tomjeffersonwasright2288]

I suggest suspending several pieces of 1/4 inch polypropylene rope in the flow, secured about 1 foot upstream of the screen. They will undulate in the flow, dislodging debris as they flag in the flow.

[@Troubledsham]

great idea, a built in filter scrubber!

[@darkracer1252]

but how much increased friction (reduced water flow) would this cause?

[@robertkubrick3738]

@@darkracer1252 Not enough to matter. The water speed is drastically reduced at the screen but speeds up again after passing through.

[@darkracer1252]

@@robertkubrick3738 do you even know what you are saying/talking about?

[@robertkubrick3738]

@@darkracer1252 Yes I do. It's called gravity and acceleration. Did you even look at the construction of the screen? It's basically a right angle redirection of the water. If you think the water isn't slowed having to make a right angle turn, I can't help you.

[@theobserver6543]

Very nice ! I really appreciate your efforts and the way shared knowledge is very good.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@allanrobertson1555]

I thought I just better message you and say what a wonderful wonderful short movie I called that you presented to the rest of the world called IDs I love living off the grid and what are beautiful place that you have. Thank you very very much for the IDs and hope to see many more

[@ichifish]

I really appreciate the time you put into documenting this build, especially the focus on detailing the temporary setbacks and solutions. Really is a treasure.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching

[@karaquick395]

This I find beautiful! If only my life could be so raw & pure, simple. It should be?! I envy your lifestyle I wish I didn't live in S. California(right on beach actually) what you have in copious amounts, peace and tranquility I only crave, yearn. Don't get me wrong the beach has it moments & there is beauty there!? Maybe it's the location of your home, maybe it's the sound that of your voice that carries poetics tones? I'm native though always felt I was born in the wrong place or time. I'm an old fashioned Swedish Girl (woman) that like doing things as you do. Take care Merry Xmas!

[@mrhydrohead]

Lived in laurel canyon in LA for 29yrs. Finally escaped and came here. Life long dream realized. Beach isn't so bad now really, only problem is the wildlife are people. Thx for watching, Check out synopsis parts 20-1,2,3 if you haven't already. Happy Solstice to you too.

[@tracylarson1935]

I was very impressed with ingenuity of the project, Well Done!!

[@rodlevinson6725]

well done everything filming voice and info thanks for taking the time to share

[@nilobortolotti7065]

Awesome video. Surprising to see the water still flowing on the ice cold temps. This video shows that persevering with a project pays off. Adapting your design to multiple failures, try and error, a great example of real life challenges when you decide to realize your dream.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching. I never know who has seen what segments. Parts 20-1,2,3 are a synopsis of the whole thing

[@B4x4]

Found this episode. The first one, to be so fascinating that I am going to watch all of them. Good storytelling voice, excellent filming, and good choice in music. Thank you for the break from everyday life. Cheers from Norway 🇳🇴

[@mrhydrohead]

Bjarne Bergum parts 20-1,2,3 are a synopsis of the the whole project thx for watching

[@abepujak6347]

How interesting. I probably will never use anything remotely similar, but nevertheless, thank you for the detailed, clear, short lesson

[@jon87386]

This is awesome! I do wonder--have you guys thought of using a small amount of the power to generate heat near key areas of the system? Even a couple hundred watts could significantly mitigate the need to manually break ice over the inlet/outlet/etc frequently (if it is a frequent thing in the first place). To increase efficiency, you could use IR proximity sensors to detect the ice (mostly just sensing the ice as opposed to the IR beam bouncing off the metal grate, assuming it doesn't get diffused by the water) and run the heaters only when necessary. Or something along those lines, maybe using an ultrasonic sensor that only checks every several minutes if the IR sensor doesn't do the trick.

[@Icybearg]

exactly what I was thinking...

[@superdupermax]

or a remote switch to turn it on once the pressure drops off

[@rich1051414]

@@superdupermax He could install flow meters at key points in the system which trigger automatic filter cleaning and heating if the temperature is low enough, but it may be more trouble than its worth, and requires more knowledge.

[@user-jz3vc9kd2j]

Mighty fine work. I was a hydroelectric powerplant mechanic at Crystal, Morrow Point, and Blue Mesa dams for several years. Hydro is the cleanest power source no doubt! Cheers from Ridgway!

[@mrhydrohead]

Wow. Cool. Thx for watching. Of course this individual video, which for some unknown algorithmic reason being the most promoted, is just part of a larger series. Cheers back from a couple valleys over.

[@firstlastname99]

I love what you're doing. I'm a Colorado native myself and I've often wondered how to make hydro work in that environment of a cold 7,400+ ft. high mountain valley. I got some good ideas from this. Thanks for sharing!

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin. And the latest video which I just posted last Friday is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJS5Z3-hotmMf80

[@mrhydrohead]

Sorry bad link above kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA for Synopsis playlist

[@bludaizee24]

This would be a dream come true for me! Wonderful!

[@benbrice9343]

Incredible video man ! Extremely informative.Thank you for putting this out there.

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching. If you haven't seen it check out parts 20-1,2,3 which are a synopsis of it all.

[@benbrice9343]

@@mrhydrohead Im going to start watching the other's.Your video's have great quality by the way.The shots an sound are really clear.Two thumbs up man.The work you put into making the video truly shows.I can't imagine how long this took you to put together.

[@igotajopamerica3040]

Great video.Very nice build. You may have already fixed your problems. Your Coada screen I thought maybe you could use the power of the water and build a paddle(like on a paddle boat)with rubber or brushes on the ends of the paddles that would keep turning cleaning the screen?

[@mrhydrohead]

You would not believe how little organic matter actually sticks in the Coanda screen. It requires a visit maybe at most once per week and maybe every two weeks. Even at that, there is so little accumulation I need not visit for the most part. Thanks so much for watching and your comment

[@igotajopamerica3040]

@@mrhydrohead Sounds like you found the right screen.👍

[@rholt2]

So glad i stumbled across this. i've been a fan of hydro-electric since my college days (uh... 1970's). although i never got to live in a place that supplied enough water flow for it, i'm now down in south Florida where i've just embarked on my Solar system. thanks for all the work you did on documenting this process. i'm sure it has and will inspire others to do the same or use it as a baseline. Great work, you all should be very proud. Russ from Coral Springs, Florida, USA

[@offgridmangogrower]

Love your narration. And multiple attempts before investing in a coanda screen. I didn't see your elevation differential but 80-90 Psi and 160-180 GPM is awesome and can truly make power. I've given up on mine based on limited head and variable winter flows and constant headworks cleaning. The air entrainment is a simple inexpensive floating ball valve found at irrigation supply houses.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching. We have 96psi nominal. I never know who has seen what. Watch parts 20-1,2,3 for a synopsis of the whole project. This is a playlist of those 3 parts: kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series of videos is 20+ videos. The problems in this video have been subsequently resolved. Sorry to hear you've had problems you can't surmount.

[@veronicathecow]

Thank you, it's interesting to see what has and has not worked. Well done!

[@123Goldhunter11]

You need to add a sluice box so you can harvest your gold in late spring.

[@mrhydrohead]

Lol. Would certainly do so if there was gold here but no such luck

[@fredflintstone6338]

Ha ha

[@TheMgrant1826]

Haha! I was just thinking the same!!

[@darkracer1252]

if it's anywhere near alaska then there deffinatly IS gold in there. infact with the glacial movement in the past it should be possible to find gold anywhere even as far down as central usa. but that organic material would be a giant pain to work with.

[@jorgensenmj]

WARNING. Before anyone does any of this you should look into your states department of natural resources on regulations regarding trout or salmon stream alterations. In many cases you can receive a significant fine for doing something like this.

[@pangrac1]

Wow, amazing work, clever thinking smart editing.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching

[@satishimca]

5 years on ans still watching the amazing invention.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for sticking with the series. Appreciate it.

[@Invad3rDiz]

😂such relaxing voice to listen to aswel🤭😌

[@JorgeGarcia-lw7vc]

I hope this can translate into a commercial and ultra affordable version for households and small businesses. Also, it is good to consider how fish can still pass around these awesome machines. Excellent work, and thanks for sharing!

[@suburbanhobbyist2752]

Cozy and warm?? You are making enough electricity to power every single thing in your cabin times 3 or 4 I imagine? The average amount of electricity consumed by one home in the US is 901 kwh per month. You are making roughly 6000 kwh per month. Really cool!

[@catkin-z8g]

There is plenty of wood there to keep a place cozy and warm with considerably less effort and use of environmentally harmful materials.

[@FiniteFr]

Martin Thompson I think there is an argument to be made that using those materials in place of cutting down and burning trees is the right thing to do, while PVC and plastics may not be the cleanest or easily disposed of materials they are being used in applications which suit their material properties. The amount of energy he has saved through this hydro power is massive and if he was to have gotten it on grid from a coal plant, incineration plant or nuclear plant the environmental impact would have been much larger While I agree he it's not perfect, what he has used here is plastic which has its use, not like making plastic rings to hold cans of beer together or other once use plastic items which cannot be reused or recycled. I think it's a perfectly legitimate use of the best materials for the job

[@mrhydrohead]

+FuzzyBuddy Well put. Can't find the comment you are replying to, but guess is it was the guy who said that making the materials alone was a huge environmental cost and not green. I imagine that fellow drives a gas powered car, lives in a city where he can't calculate or control the source of his water and power, perhaps thinks himself ecologically minded, but has never undertaken any direct action personally to present an alternative for himself or others. An armchair critic. Lots of them here. I appreciate your defense and analysis. Many are critical of method, content, or form and not once have i seen a commentator of that sort post something useful or meaningful to a KZbin channel of their own.

[@catkin-z8g]

you imagine wrong. give me some thumbs up please so my comments don't keep vanishing due to this messed up site otherwise it is pointless posting anything.

[@mrhydrohead]

Martin Thompson I stand corrected on what you originally said. It can be difficult in the KZbin network to access or see all the comments which are posted. Most comments are complimentary, but there is a set of people that inevitably judge what we've done through their own biases and can be very negative. Some suggest to start over and do something entirely different. It's a bummer when someone dumps on an effort to contribute something you feel is of value. I apologize if I mistook you for someone else, we could burn trees for heat, but the system exists and has since 1996. Solar was an unreasonably expensive solution back then, so that was not viable. We made what we felt were the best choices we could at that time.

[@homayounshirazi9550]

I noticed icicles forming on your eaves. Soon water will find its way into your ceiling. Got to keep your attic space cold or else you might need a new roof because your attic air is very warm and melted snow dams up under your shingles and damages your roof.

[@mrhydrohead]

No attics in the house. Ice dams have become a problem on the north face where the sun doesn’t melt them off. Plan to install heater cables to reduce their formation.

[@ricardomontalban6004]

Get some roof squirrels. They’ll keep it clear

[@pheenix42]

One reason I don't want to live in snowy areas...had my fill of shoveling in the 70's as a young boy.

[@mrhydrohead]

Don't really shovel that much here, but I get your point.

[@DevReaper]

Thanks for the info, Batou!

[@kurtjensen7264]

Alonzo Branson The good the bad and the ugly. The good - it brings in freshwater and water flow - The bed is it’s damn cold 🥶 - and causes many problems.

[@ronaldreed7698]

I live on a boat and would like to do this with tidal currents, there are 2 tides a day that means 4 times a day I have a strong current. I have thought about using paddle wheels, unsightly, but my hopes are on a propeller design. I'm going to experiment with an electric trolling motor as soon as I get back to FL. I am currently in the great lakes, no tides or currents here. I like that you never gave up and all changes moved you a little closer to a low maintenance system! Superb job with video as well.

[@AtlantaTerry]

LOL! Of course, there are currents in the Great Lakes. How do you think the water finds its way over Niagara Falls? BTW, I grew up in Lorain, Ohio so I know firsthand that Lake Erie has a current. True, it is not very fast, but it is there.

[@WilbertRobichaud]

Any bow in a water line will create a water lock. many years ago on a Friday evening coming from a plumbing job, driving by a house where they were installing a new shallow well pump. Saturday Morning they were still at it. Saturday evening ?still there. Sunday Morning? Yep still at it. Sunday evening I stopped and ask what was the problem. We cannot prime the pump. Took a quick look and sure enough, their plastic water line was going up and down like a snake. Took my saw cut the excess line pulled the line straight and in 10 minutes they had water. love watching that video and love the good old memories. Such a project must be a lot of fun and round the table talk.

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching. If you haven't seen it check out parts 20-1,2,3 which are a synopsis of it all.

[@tylerbrooks5545]

The shortest 12 min of my life. I didnt want it to end

[@mrhydrohead]

Wow nice comment. Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@TheNimshew]

Far be it from me to tell you what to do... but. If you have a holding tank at the intake end, with the outlet halfway up the tank. This allows the lighter debris to float off the surface and over the side. The material heavier than water goes to the bottom. The holding tank also allows the material to settle out and provides the 12" of water column you should have over the outlet to prevent vapor lock in the penstock. If you look at penstocks you'll see a venturi stack on the larger ones(Oroville dam has a considerable one) which serve a couple of functions. Hydro shock prevention and .. I'm not sure. Equalization of pressure? You might find information here cedb.asce.org/CEDBsearch/records.jsp?terms=Fluid%20flow

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for the suggestion. Our intake from the creek modifies each year as it is changed by the spring melt off and we face different conditions each season. This year we will be luck to find a spot that affords even 12" of depth. I will look at your info just the same. Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@alanbrown397]

It strikes me that you would be better off having your creek pipe inlet and screen facing downwards in the stream, rather than upwards (having it facing downstream should help a lot as well) - that way, gravity will mean that most heavy debris will not collect on the screens and act as a trap for other particles - it will flow under the screens instead of flowing across the top of it, you won't get algae buildup due to sunlight exposure and you should avoid most of the air bubbles getting in. ie: the water would flow _upwards_ into the intake pipe (even though the entire inlet is underwater) A sunshield over the collector area would probably help reduce algae buildup on the mesh. At the meadow: to reduce ice buildup, why not put a cover over the gate valve - even a small tent structure will hold in a lot of heat and prevent it freezing up. With regard to your weir - apart from covering the downstream side to try and prevent ice buildup directly on your collector, have you considered trying a vortex collector? This would throw most organics to the outside whilst allowing water to still flow through your filter and should reduce cleaning requirements. (You could try this at the creek intake as well.)

[@alanbrown397]

One other pointer: at your air traps, if you use plumbers string (basically, cotton or jute, not synthetic) instead of a screw, it will let air out when dry, then absorb water and expand to block the flow. When they dry out the cycle will repeat. Alternatively, you could look at an automatic air release valve such as the ones at plastomatic.com/arv.html (these might give an idea for a homebuild). There are plenty of air-autobleed setups used for hydronic heating systems (radiators)

[@mrhydrohead]

+Alan Brown Thanks for all your suggestions. I will consider them closely.

[@alanbrown397]

I hope it helps. I'm looking at micro/pico generation in the tropics as part of a family move to SE Asia. Different sets of problems, including critters taking up residence in the turbines. Further thought for your upstream pickup: Rather than relying on a small screen or intake port area at all: How about trying a collection duct extending upstream of the pickup point using something like a 20 foot length of 4-6 inch soakaway pipe, soldidly anchored into the stream bed to prevent it being dislodged during the melt. That would get you a very large distributed pickup area that's hopefully less likely to be blocked. If placed at/under the creekbed you'd still get significant quantities of water with most sediment simply washing past entirely.

[@jazldazl9193]

excellent observation @@alanbrown397

[@Hypercube9]

I agree with Alan. I've been looking into using a french drain to keep my backyard from flooding in the spring and the pipes only have holes in the bottom so as the trench fills with water sediment stays at the bottom and any water that rises up into the pipe goes down it.

[@manfrommaine]

I live in the mountains of Maine, and our winters are very similar. I had always wondered if these micro hydro systems could function year-round. Very impressive work.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@williamiannucci2740]

Oh how I wish this could be used everywhere !!! I hate pollution !!! I Love nature . Thank you men and though I am getting old now and far away my heart is with you in Christ . 👍

[@davidporowski9512]

Awesome Video. Self-Sufficiency soon to be Illegal (Good Luck w/ HOA Regs) PEACE.

[@nonofyourbiz6749]

Great video..

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching. I never know who has seen what segments. Parts 20-1,2,3 are a synopsis of the whole thing.

[@rblibit]

8500 WATTS! "Holy Hot Wire, Batman!" said the strangely dressed young man in the yellow tights... TOTALLY AWESOME system! I AM impressed, and I don't get impressed easily (and it's not because I'm some BIG BRAIN or something, but usually because I'm kind of slow... and I DON'T ALWAYS GET IT ). But I got this and it is WAY COOL! One quick edit - I fear that we are headed for a VERY serious Ice Age. I am sure you have heard of it, but now the science is starting to backup the rumor, and it is looking SCARY. But your system looks like it is easy enough to move if glaciation becomes a problem - Yet ANOTHER reason I like it. Very, Very cool.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching. Ice age! Indeed!

[@Larsanator]

@ 11:11 What a beautiful way to look at a recurring problem. :)

[@lindenvillage2474]

I don't know anything about solar power, wind turbines ,,but one of my missions in life is to somehow have myself free electricity ,that set up you have there is genius ,it's absolutely brilliant .

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@jacobbranker159]

This has been my favorite series I have EVER watched on youtube, and I've been on youtube for 10 years now. Excellent work, I too like the other viewers hope to do this one day. Beautiful job. May I ask how many acres you're situated on?

[@mrhydrohead]

That is quite a compliment. Thank you so much. The majority of ground allows access to our springs. The overall property is about 340 acres. The creek zone where the new install exists takes up less than 40 acres of the total. Best of luck with bringing your hopes to fruition.

[@cryptonein]

This is amazing. Is there a forum or some place to discuss this kind of endeavor with others where collaboration on implementing a similar setup in a different environment could take place? For example, I'd like to take this idea and implement it in a lower flow creek that has the potential to be dammed up somewhat for flow during times of precipitation that occur rather frequently. It would go a tremendously long way of reducing overall power consumption, especially when solar power is not as good of an option due to shading in a valley.

[@mrhydrohead]

Try this: microhydropower.net/mhp_group/ There is also a micro hydro discussion group on Yahoo. I don’t participate in either as I’m already set. I learned by taking a class in the 90’s before lots of internet resources were available at SEI in Carbondale, CO : www.solarenergy.org/training-schedule/?tribe_paged=1&tribe_event_display=list&tribe_eventcategory=124 Thx for watching

[@cryptonein]

@@mrhydrohead amazing, thank you very much. Curious, are you available for chat or consultation services / brainstorming at all?

[@Chuckwagon524]

Don't know much about this but that stainless steel screen you got works much like a sleuce miners would use to trap debris in a controlled way. An idea for someone with less of a budget. check out the RealMartian on KZbin. He built a self contained micro green habitat in a very cold climate. He uses Ardunio controllers to monitor his operation and control processes. This could be used to control water flow, monitor and bleed air out, and control gates. With some ingenuity, a wireless networked operation complete with cameras on your property?

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching and the tip. I’ll check it out 😉

[@mrhydrohead]

I've had a very short look at The RealMartian. Great great stuff and loads of it. Thx for sharing this, it obviously will provide loads to learn. 👍👍👍

[@Chuckwagon524]

If you ever have to move water uphill, look up ram pumps. No motors or electricity. Just have to have positive flow. A thought I had if you wanted to recirculate or move water around your property. Wranglerstar had a couple good videos about them a few years ago.

[@Chuckwagon524]

Ram pumps can be made easily with off the shelf plumbing fixtures

[@Chuckwagon524]

Sleuce the debris out before it hits your filters. However that would hve to be cleaned.

[@dennisboyd1712]

WOW A man with an idea, a plan with perseverance and the ability to see it through = Beautiful, Thank You

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching and the kind comment

[@monolithicfist]

Not sure why you have dislikes on your video... This is a truly inspiring project. I love that you continue to tweak it as you discover what works & no.

[@mrhydrohead]

+monolithicfist It's interesting to see the variety and polarized reactions. Some people complain on the music. I just do what I like and offer it up. Can't please all the people all the time. Thanks for watching

[@royamberg9177]

looks like it works darn good

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for watching. Purrs like a kitten.

[@ubbeus]

Dam good...;)

[@Eukatae]

Some tips from a farmer: There are ball vents for pvc pipe (water floats the ball, if air is present the ball will fall breaking the seal and allowing air to escape). Perhaps a rotating screen (rotates to clean the screen) there are several types available. Both are available from any irrigation supply. Both are cheap. Some questions: Why aren't you capturing all the water available, more water more energy more money. Why are you wasting head pressure and water by taking it out of pipe to run through the meadow?

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for the ideas. Lots of people have suggested air vents. The path of the pipe has only minimal fall where the air gets trapped. There isn’t any pressure to keep a vent closed. The problem is that the negative suction pressure from the lower part of the pipe would simply suck air in at the vent holes. That is why when I bleed the air out through the holes I need to close the gate at the pipe outlet. Once the air is out of the line, the flow is dramatically increased. Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin. The reason to capture only part of the water is to not disturb the aquatic life in the creek and there is no need to create vastly more power than we can use. There is only a stretch of about 200ft. where the water is reduced to less than what we actually put through the penstock. All water not used for power is returned to the creek after that 200ft. We are fully off grid and 7 miles from the lines. The reason to collect water in the meadow is to combine it with existing water running through the meadow. In spring when the creek gets freaky with massive melt off, there is sufficient water in the meadow by itself to provide us all the power we need. The supplemental water from the creek mainly insures that we never drain the pipe and in Winter can have sufficient water to generate max power to heat the house.

[@guytech7310]

@@mrhydrohead Pumbing Air bleeding valves might work. These are using in hydronic systems to let trapped air escape, but will not let water out or air in. They are automatic.

[@mrhydrohead]

Guy Tech I’ll take a look into that. It may be that the winter freezing temps may preclude using them, but thanks for the suggestion and for watching

[@mrhydrohead]

Another commenter pointed out the error in the link I provided that it didn't work. It should have been kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA Sorry about that.

[@eCitizen1]

I can't help wondering why you don't make a water powered screen sweeper? It seems like such an obvious choice and wouldn't be difficult to design.

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching. We installed a different coanda screen that doesn't really have any issue with freezing. This segment is part of a much larger series. See kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZrboKWcjrCGras about 3:30 in to see new screen. Part 19 shows detail as well. If you haven't seen it check out parts 20-1,2,3 which are a synopsis of it all.

[@ricardomontalban6004]

Bog brush!

[@carloscarpinteyro332]

Nice informative video. Like how you saw all of the obstacles as opportunities to perfect, and your taking the time to explain your revisions. In those epic words of Mr. Miagi, "well done Daniel son".

[@DJKrEyVa]

wow i never thought colorado was so breathtakingly beautiful in winter great video, lots of very ussefull info thanks for the different levels of prototyping with explinations

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching I'm never sure who has seen what of the series. Here is a playlist of the 3 part synopsis which is an overview of the whole process kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series is in about 25 videos. This part 17 video gets promoted most frequently by KZbin.

[@djh8950]

Sounds like Kevin Costner when he was reading in Dances with wolves

[@mrhydrohead]

LOL. Always loved that movie and friends of mine worked on the camera crew for it.

[@BlaRaRa33]

the future! smallscale hydro!

[@mrhydrohead]

Thx for watching, Check out synopsis parts 20-1,2,3 if you haven't already. Happy Solstice to you too.

[@royalspin]

We have a river running through our property which has constant volume and flows pretty fast but unfortunately we can't do micro hydro because of the annual salmon migrations and other draconian laws that keeps everyone at the mercy of the power company . Around where I live we lose power constantly because of the high winds and all the tall trees we have that snap and hit the power lines and our rates are ridiculous . Every year we lose power at least 5 to 10 times due to storms or the occasional driver hitting a pole which can last for a day or much longer . Because of this our small community thought about making a micro hydro system but we were met with immediate hostility by the much bigger power company . When we thought about making a large solar panel array in an unused field instead but they cited animal migration as the reason for not allowing us to build it which was ridiculous considering the fact that there were no such migration routes along the path where it would be . You're fortunate that you're able to get off the grid and be self sustainable . The rest of us are stuck being subject to the whims of the power companies . In some places they'll sue you for making your own electricity or charge you for the extra electricity you're making . Power trip doesn't even begin to describe their efforts .

[@mrhydrohead]

Wow that’s a bummer. Really sad to hear of your ordeals. What state is this?

[@anthonythorp7291]

Sounds similar. Small community, unreliable power, and laws preventing use of "public water". I myself am in Wisconsin.

[@michaelgrodecki4159]

isnt there an appeal process? It has taken me almost 2 yrs to get my top of pole mount solar setup installed. My setbacks were just shy of local code, had to get multiple variances and 2 public hearings where no one showed up and 2 other visits to town board. Reasons being top of pole mount is house has dormers and multiple levels and too many nice old trees around house.

[@CanIHasThisName]

If that's your case, there definitely have to be other communities with same problems. Perhaps it might be worthwhile getting together and looking for the possibility to take legal action against the company.

[@2484marshall]

Basic infrastructure including water, power and heat should be a public owned commodity. Your useage should then be reflected in your individual tax rate encouraging people to be frugal with its use. Under NO circumstances should anyone be making money of basic necessities other than to float public funds for use elsewhere or subsidise taxes for the vulnerable. Or maybe that's a too socialist viewpoint for the western world?! Everyone is a capitalist until someone on a higher paygrade takes advantage of them!

[@chimpchowder5774]

Awe you finally figured it out. Drilling small wholes to releave the air build up. You could also play with a simple flapper valve. And I would put up a series of prefilters and maybe a solar hot water supply to defeat the ice build up

[@hegmonster]

I love to see the trial and error elements of any project. Very well done.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for watching

[@yv6eda]

Great info, thank you very much!

[@1Triton]

Wooooo been a long time

[@mrhydrohead]

Yes indeed. We spent most of the 2016 year prepping, listing, & selling our original home. and then Moving! Finally now in our dream home.

[@Jay-nw1bp]

Good for you , Enjoyed the whole series. I hope someday to live like this also.. Thanks for sharing your inspiring journey. God Bless

[@WorkingModelsSchoolProjects]

congrats for new home :) now give us new ideas (Sonu Projects, India)

[@bobsmoth7837]

Not that you remember. That explains my icing concerns from 2 years ago. Thanks for sharing. One new question: do you really need that fine of a screen? As long as it will pass through the needle valve at the bottom unimpeded it probably doesn't need to be screened out. Wear on the Pelton wheel could be an issue.

[@mrhydrohead]

Yes Bob, there wouldn't be an obstruction at the jet end, but the issue of any granular materials eating away at the brass peloton cups is the primary reason for the decisions on screening. The system was originally installed on spring fed waters which had zero sediment and ran for 17 years with virtually no erosion to the pelton. Switching it to creek water which can be very turgid convinced me that a small investment in an adequate screening plan might prevent me one day having to replace a very expensive pelton wheel. Thanks for watching.

[@DonMillerNC]

Very impressive. I watched all 17 videos. Any estimate on what the cost was that you would be willing to share? Seems like solar panels/wind with battery storage might have been more cost effective (aka less labor).

[@IstasPumaNevada]

The biggest cost is enough land, with enough water flowing through it (or at least the rights to use/divert the water) and enough elevation change. Whatever they spent on that hydro project is likely dwarfed by the cost of the property, unless they've installed it on land they don't own.

[@ZIGZAG12345]

There is something about your narration style and nice cinematography (especially those falling snow shots) that just clicks with me. Subbed!

[@jeffdunnell508]

Don't know how I got here,this is areal eye opener,thanks for sharing your experience with living off grid,that was so interesting I'm going to check out your site to see what else amazing things you do,I imagine your property is the same size as my city crammed with people,thanks for the eye opener

[@mrhydrohead]

Most welcome. Thx for watching

[@Desi-qw9fc]

200 KWh/day, that's so good.

[@omaversteher1]

Per day? oO

[@ChuckBeefOG]

I know nothing about electricity. What could that power exactly? Like a full size service garage?

[@DaD3coy]

@@ChuckBeefOG Well, google says that Colorado has an average comsumption of 723kwh/month. That means that what he built produces, each day, more than 1/4 what he would need for a month

[@TheAero1221]

200kwh/day! HOLY CRAP!

[@mrbigreddog420]

Awesome video👌

[@Jacksonransom]

ive watched this series of videos 3 times and still enjoy it. lots of info. thanks

[@mrhydrohead]

You’re most welcome. Thx for watching

[@tallman11282]

Great series. I just discovered your channel earlier today/yesterday (it's now 1:00 AM here) and binge watched all of your videos they're so good. This is a very informative series and I love it. Thank you for making it.

[@mrhydrohead]

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it. Working on the next installment now.

[@beno9916]

Ca you make a part 18 please

[@mrhydrohead]

We've been away for 5 weeks on a trip to Japan. Just getting back into spring here. Next vid may come in July. Sorry for the slowness of posts, but I only post new things as they occur. Thanks for watching

[@beno9916]

Ok thanks for replying

[@beno9916]

MrHydrohead it's the end of July.. Anything about part 18??

[@mrhydrohead]

+Beno Yohros There have been many projects underway and I've been collecting shots for another segment. When an install of a new Coanda screen is complete, I will get focused on putting it together and posting. Thanks for watching and my apologies for the long gaps between segments.

[@beno9916]

hi. do you know when part 18 is coming out?

[@OffGridLivingSteve]

Love your series. I wish I had the resources to pursue the same dream as you. But my resources are limited so I live on my mountain with no source of water, but solar and wind are the sources of energy I use. Thanks for sharing - like watching lifestyles of the rich and famous!

[@mrhydrohead]

Hydro is a full cost up front type thing. that is a tough one often. Good thing other tech is bursting forth. Whatever works to put the power in YOUR hands, thats the best thing! Thanks for watching

[@airborne501]

8600ft, that is awesome. I live at 4500ft right now in Sierra Mountains, but I want to go higher up when I retire. I want to be above 7500ft when I retire, but 8600ft sounds perfect. You dont need an A/C at that elevation in summer. Your video is very interesting. Thanks so much.

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching. I never know who has seen what. Watch parts 20-1,2,3 for a synopsis of the whole project. This is a playlist of those 3 parts: kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA

[@Urobam]

Wow! This is so valuable, interesting, educational. I learned so much! Thank you for sharing, and for inviting us; it makes a better world when someone opens their door and let us be a part of them

[@mrhydrohead]

thx for watching and your kind comment. I never know who has seen what. Watch parts 20-1,2,3 for a synopsis of the whole project. This is a playlist of those 3 parts: kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA

[@kevinnobody3052]

Wow. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. A video that actually covers problems and how to solve them in an educational format without all the needless personal bs. I actually learned something.

[@mrhydrohead]

Thanks for the kind comment. I never know who has seen what. Watch parts 20-1,2,3 for a synopsis of the whole project. This is a playlist of those 3 parts: kzbin.info/aero/PLtTypVpmDd-vkT9bJQkXw4I1t0e_4jMYA The whole series of videos is 20+ videos.

[@kevinnobody3052]

@@mrhydrohead I will. Thank you.

[@dwebster50]

In industry, there are these simply design air removers for large piping systems. Take a look , you are resourceful enough to use this design on the 4 in pvc . To keep the highest velocity and the loss of head pressure at the vanes of your generator. The screws are good and simple. Or build a settling pond and run a new buried piping system. .thank you for posting