Q & A
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to install a GreenStar system on my own?
Most of our customers have done the installation by themselves. The system is very well thought through and flexible in its design which makes it easy to fit perfectly in almost any boat. If you decide to do the installation by yourself, don’t forget to send the installation protocol to us which will give you three years system warranty.
Does a GreenStar system require any maintenance?
Allting behöver underhåll men i det här fallet är det ovanligt lite.
- At the beginning of each season, we recommend making sure that all cables and bolts are securely fastened, and that the sacrificial node is okay.
- The batteries should also be charged in autumn and spring, but can preferably remain in the boat during the winter.
- Shaft systems in general needs no supervision and is completely free of belts, oils, greases etc.
- Systems with sail drive contains oil that needs to be changed from time to time.
Is the GreenStar system noiseless during use?
Compared to conventional diesel engines, all of our systems are very quiet. The P-line motors are however even less noisy than the EB- and EC-line motor systems.
At cruising speed it is nearly silent but at full speed some noise and vibrations caused by the propeller may be noticed.
Is it possible to reuse the old propeller, shaft etc?
It is possible, although most customers choose not to, since our system warranty does not cover such installations. Another reason to replace all the components is that our system components are designed to reduce friction, noise and maintenance, and are also sold as a very affordable package.
Is it possible to install a GreenStar system in a motor boat?
Of course it is. We have completed numerous power boat installations and deliver our systems to both boat builders and service partners.
How much can you charge while sailing?
The amount of power that can be regenerated depends on the shape of the hull and how freely the propeller can work. Usually 10 minutes of motor drive can be regenerated in 45 minutes at a speed of 5 knots sailing. When sailing faster, more power will be generated, and vice versa.
How many batteries do I need?
The size of the batteries is determined by the desired range. Normally, our customers have a battery bank of between 5 and 10 kWh.
- With lithium batteries, such a battery bank typically weighs 35-70 kg and is as large as 2-4 traditional 75 Ah car batteries.
- With lead batteries it becomes significantly heavier and bulky.
Is there a battery monitor included in the system?
Yes, a battery monitor is included in all systems.
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EB-line comes with a simpler monitor which shows “% left”, operating time left, voltage and current.
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EC- and P-line comes with a more advanced display which can show additional datapoints and allows for further graphical customization.
Is it possible to connect a genset to the GreenStar system?
Yes it’s possible. Two different methods can be used.
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The first is to have a permanently mounted DC genset, that directly charges the batteries. This method is more costly but it is a very nice and sophisticated solution.
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The second method is to use a portable genset, for example a Honda eu10i. This method should be considered to be a range extender, and can be used if the wind fades or the batteries are drained.
Please contact us if you want assistance in designing a hybrid system for your specific needs.
Why doesn’t the propeller fold while propeller charging
When sailing, the propeller folds out when you engage the propulsion “Low” and then move the lever a notch back to “Charge”. Now the propeller spins by the water movement and is held out by the centrifugal force.
If the speed is above 4 knots, the motor, which is now an efficient generator, is slowly loaded by taking the right current from the generator and converting it to battery charging voltage.
The current that the generator can be loaded with, without the propeller collapsing, is a function of the boat’s speed through the water. The power outlet and thus the propeller’s towing resistance is adjustable.
What is STAR?
STAR pairs your drive system on the boat with our cloud service. STAR is available for both EC and P-Line, and after logging in you can see GPS position, system model and any warnings, such as battery level, temperature and engine configuration.
A unique PIN code is needed to start the system, which makes theft more difficult. Through STAR, GreenStar can offer fast and efficient support with access to system history and any error messages.
How much does STAR cost?
STAR is included free of charge for 12 months. You will then be able to configure which services you need in the future, such as service and support agreements.