SWI-TEC Hydro Generator: Reliable Energy Anytime
Equipped with intelligent control unit and easy lifting system
With the increasing use of electronic devices at sea — refrigerators, mobile phones, laptops, and other devices — having constant and reliable energy is essential. The SWI-TEC Hydro Generator harnesses the power of water to generate electricity, ensuring comfort and safety while sailing.
Our hydroelectric system is compatible with existing solar installations thanks to the intelligent control unit, allowing efficient battery charging even under moderate sailing conditions.
How the SWI-TEC Hydro Generator Works
The generator is lowered into the water while sailing and begins producing energy immediately. Thanks to its advanced design:
From 3–4 knots (depending on the vessel and propeller pitch), batteries can charge between 50 and 500 W
Combines hydro and solar energy via the intelligent control unit for maximum efficiency
The control unit protects batteries and optimizes charging
Advantages and Benefits
Very robust V4A stainless steel construction
Adjustable according to the transom angle, ensuring vertical entry into the water
Base plate with solid counterplate, available separately
Easy attachment and quick installation
Foldable during sailing thanks to 1:4 line reduction
Automatic lock in working position to avoid rope tension
Immediate release via red rope, useful for raising or in case of collision
Can fold vertically when not in use or when batteries are fully charged
Side stops prevent hull damage
Ergonomic design and maintenance-free
Available Models
Art. No. 7147: Standard Hydro Generator, 12 V system with standard bracket
Art. No. 7148: Standard Hydro Generator, 24 V system with standard bracket
We also offer a special bathing platform bracket and a wide range of spare parts to ensure continuous system operation.
Detailed Technical Specifications
Lifting Mechanism
Stainless steel support with adjustable double segment
Foldable upwards with auxiliary line
Effortless deployment during sailing thanks to 1:4 reduction
Secure locking mechanism while underway
Quick transom attachment with fastener
Generator
Planetary gear for smooth and silent operation
Low reduction to avoid high revolutions
Hard-anodized aluminum housing with special plastic cover
Propeller designed with CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) to optimize efficiency and performance
No vibrations thanks to built-in clutch
Generator technical data:
Sealed on both sides with 2 O-rings
Propeller shaft with multiple bearings
Gear motor with shaft, propeller, 3-pole 4 m cable, and plug
Power range: charging from 4 knots (depending on boat type and propeller configuration)
Electrical power: 50–500 W (depending on speed and battery condition)
Generator dimensions: 110 x 10 x 30 cm (motor with shaft and support)
Propeller diameter: 360 mm
Weight: 18 kg
Controller
Alarm for fully charged battery
Built-in switch for propeller freewheeling when max voltage is reached
“Load” connection for additional electrical devices
Digital display
Controller technical details:
Max power: 1,000 W (hydro generator 600 W, solar panels 400 W, max 60 VDC)
Compatible batteries: 12/24 V, 100–200 Ah (automatic voltage detection)
Max battery voltage to stop charging: 16V/32V (adjustable)
Min battery voltage to disconnect charging: 11V/22V
Max charging current: 40 A (20 A at 24 V)
Charge loss: ≤45 mA
Dimensions: 278 x 133 x 75 mm; Weight: 1.6 kg
Operating temperature: -10° to 50° C; Humidity: 0–90%
(Do not install in stern locker; indoor use only)
Propeller
Main body made of special plastic
Propeller blades of baked enamel aluminum
Adjustable pitch according to vessel type (speed)
Replaceable blades, e.g., in case of collision
Blade design optimized using CFD for superior shape and twist
Package Contents
Hydro generator ready to install with controller, lifting mechanism, generator, propeller, plug, and bracket
Individual components also available as spare parts
Attention:
Compatible with lithium batteries only after manufacturer consultation and approval. A relay must be installed between hydro generator and controller; otherwise, the controller may be damaged.
No warranty for damage caused by floating debris or algae (wood, logs, plastic bags, seaweed, etc.).
Surcharge for bulky goods applies due to product volume.
Tommy –
Hi we are now in East London South Africa, we sail around the world with the hydrocharger and from start from Stockholm that will be over 30000 seamile. And we are very happy with the hydrocharger we have so much power so we can sale. This trip had not been so easy without the hydrocharger and we properly have to change batteries, now we always have batteries fully loaded. Tommy
Friedrich B. –
He instalado el hidrogenerador. Funciona fantástico y más de 8 nudos produce más de 400. La instalación de dos soportes es una solución ideal para embarcaciones con puerta trasera abierta o espejo plegable. El generador es bastante fácil de mover, incluso cuando navegas. Cuando el cargador esta levantado se puede fijar fácilmente con sus propias cuerdas. Conectamos el panel solar a través del controlador y funciona perfectamente.
Helene L. –
Compramos un hidrocompresor swi-tec y nos complace informarle que ahora tenemos mucha más electricidad a bordo. Ahora está sobre el Atlántico. Y el servicio proporcionado por SWI-TEC es muy bueno. Podemos recomendar este producto.
John –
After adjusting the blade angle the hydrocharger now produces more power than previously.
I don’t think it will ever achieve it’s theoretical maximum output, but it does produce a useful amount under the correct conditions.
It would be helpful to have a table showing optimum blade angle vs cruising speed.
One big problem is the weight and complexity of the lifting mechanism. It’s very hard to use and needs two people really.
Other than that it is a useful addition to our cruising inventory.