Average of 5 Reviews
All User Reviews
Over all I am extremely happy with my Skystream 3.7. I installed it in back in September of last year 2007. Initially I had a problem that arose two months after I installed it. It had a software problem that shut the machine down for over a month and a half, but Southwest Wind Power switched it out with a new Skystream turbine and it has been running great ever since.
I installed the Skystream myself and it was relatively easy. Although if you don't have an over all knowledge of wiring and access to heavy equipment for moving and erecting the tower and installing the foundation I would advise having the dealer install it.
The complete installation of the system on a 45' monopole tower cost me about $13,500. My average monthly wind speed is 10-12.5 miles per hour and I produce about 200-300 kWh a month with the turbine, which is around 1/3 of my normal electrical usage. I'm planning on installing geothermal heating and cooling system this summer and with them working together I should make back my money on both systems in 7-8 years. Most likely less at the current increasing rates for petroleum products and with the future adjustment of electrical rates this fall.
My biggest advice to anyone who is looking into installing a Skystream at their home is be realistic and understand the numbers. When you look at wind charts and it says that in your area the average wind speed is 11.5 mph and the Skystream output chart puts monthly production at 300-400 kwh a month, you need to understand that this is really the amount you are likely to produce each month. I've had people say to me that they looked at the charts and it says they only get 10 mph winds, but they know they get 20-25 mph winds during the month. The key to this is "average" winds. The charts show the over all average. So don't mislead yourself into thinking that you can expect more output than what the charts say, these highs and lows are already taken into account. Now some months will be better than others, but when you look at it over the entire year this should be very close. Your best bet to really know what to expect is to gauge the wind on your site ahead of time with an anemometer, but in my case I just went off the charts and they have been right on the money with what I'm producing.
Also check around your area for others who have wind turbines and see what they are producing and I you do decide to buy a turbine make sure to check closely with your zoning commission, neighbors and utility to make sure there are no unexpected obstacle that will try to stop you from installing it.
When you do install your Skystream your best bet for a guaranteed production record is to install a dedicated Kilowatt-Hour Meter between the 30 amp disconnect switch and the 20 amp breaker for the Skystream in your service panel. I wouldn't recommend the current wireless remote and data logger. I personally had no luck with this piece of equipment and a lot of others I spoke to have had nothing but connection problems. So even if you decide to go with the remote you would be best served to spend the $100 extra and install a dedicated meter as well.
If you have any other questions about the Skystream or would like to discuss possible issues with other owners check out Keep Turning.com - http://www.keepturning.com
We installled Sparky in January and love the job he is doing. Southwest makes good equipment and their dealers seem to be easy to work with on the installs. We are even considering buying a second. Watch out for the price of the pole, anchors, concrete, and wiring - that will add another $5k to your investment. HINT: Forego the handheld meter from Southwest and buy a wall mounted meter from an electric supply store instead.
I'm using this turbine for a research project, and have been testing and tinkering with it. The company did a great job designing this turbine. There aren't any flaws in the design. Its a good value for all the features built into it.
