Home Garden

How to Convert Exhaust Heat to Electricity

Engineers have found ways to recycle exhaust heat by harnessing its energy and converting it to electricity. Exhaust heat is a byproduct of a number of everyday devices, such as cars, stoves, fireplaces, and clothes dryers. The heated exhaust from these devices is usually set free into the air where its energy dissipates into the atmosphere. Devices called thermoelectric generators capture the heat from any source and convert it into electricity that can be used in your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Universal thermoelectric generator battery charger
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Heat-resistant foil tape
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Adjust the voltage on your universal thermoelectric generator to match that of the rechargeable battery you are using.

    • 2

      Place the thermoelectric generator on the source of exhaust heat you plan to use. Make sure that exhaust heat is not being emitted during this step, as it may burn or asphyxiate you.

    • 3

      Cover the two wires sticking out from the thermoelectric generator in heat-resistant foil tape. This will prevent them from being damaged once the exhaust heat begins to flow.

    • 4

      Attach the red wire coming from the thermoelectric generator to the positive end of your battery.

    • 5

      Attach the black wire coming from the thermoelectric generator to the negative end of your battery.

    • 6

      Turn on the source of exhaust heat you intend to harvest electricity from. As the thermoelectric generator warms up from the exhaust's heat, the battery will become charged with usable electricity.