Surviving the brutal deserts of Arrakis in Dune: Awakening means mastering one essential resource: water. Without it, crafting, building, and even staying alive become impossible. While early-game methods like harvesting dew or extracting blood can keep you hydrated, mid-to-late-game players need a more reliable solution. That’s where Windtraps come in—a passive water-gathering system that works even when you’re offline.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Windtraps, from unlocking and crafting them to optimizing their efficiency. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned Fremen, understanding Windtraps will transform your water management strategy.
What Are Windtraps?
Windtraps are automated devices that pull moisture from the air, converting it into usable water over time. Unlike manual methods—like sucking dew from plants or purifying blood—Windtraps require minimal upkeep once set up. They’re perfect for players who want a steady water supply without constant grinding.
These machines do have limitations, though. They need Filters to function, and their water output is slower than active methods like Deathstills. However, their low power cost and offline functionality make them invaluable for long-term survival.
How to Unlock Windtraps
Before building a Windtrap, you’ll need to research its blueprint. Here’s how:
- Open the Research Menu – Navigate to the Water Discipline section.
- Spend Intel Points – Unlocking the Windtrap schematic costs 100 Intel Points, which you earn through exploration and missions.
- Gather Crafting Materials – Once researched, you’ll need the following to build one:
- 90 Steel Ingots (made from Carbon Ore, Iron Ingots, and water)
- 30 Silicone Blocks (crafted using Flour Sand and water)
- 20 Calibrated Servoks (found in high-level areas or bought from merchants)
With these materials ready, open your Construction Tool and place the Windtrap outdoors near a Sub-Fief Console.
How to Use Windtraps Effectively
1. Powering the Windtrap
Windtraps require 75 Power to run. Ensure your base has enough energy before installation. Unlike Deathstills (which drain 200 Power), Windtraps are energy-efficient, making them ideal for players with limited power infrastructure.
2. Installing Filters
A Windtrap won’t work without a Filter. There are three types:
Filter TypeDurationBest ForMakeshift3 hoursEarly-game setupsStandard8 hoursBalanced useParticulateTBDLarge Windtraps
Filters are crafted at a Survival Fabricator:
- Makeshift Filter: Plant Fiber, Silicone Blocks, and water.
- Standard Filter: Aluminum Ingots, Plant Fiber, and more Silicone.
Deposit multiple Filters at once to extend uptime.
3. Connecting to Water Storage
Windtraps have a small 500ml internal capacity, so link them to a Cistern or other storage to prevent overflow. They automatically feed into your base’s Water Circuit, distributing water where needed.
4. Placement Tips
- Keep them outside—Windtraps won’t function indoors.
- Cluster multiple Windtraps for higher output.
- Pair with other water sources (like Deathstills) for maximum efficiency.
Windtrap vs. Other Water Sources
While Windtraps are convenient, they aren’t the fastest water source. Here’s how they compare:
- Dew Harvesting: Quick but manual; best early-game.
- Blood Extraction: Mid-game option, but requires corpse hauling.
- Deathstills: High yield (25,000ml per corpse) but power-hungry.
- Windtraps: Passive, low maintenance, but slower (2,700ml/hour).
For the best results, combine Windtraps with active methods—use Deathstills for bulk water and Windtraps for steady trickle.
Advanced Tips for Windtrap Optimization
- Upgrade to Large Windtraps
Unlocked later in the Water Discipline, Large Windtraps cost 700 Intel Points and Spice Melange but offer higher capacity and output. - Prioritize Filter Efficiency
- Standard Filters last longer than Makeshift ones.
- Craft Filters in bulk to reduce downtime.
- Monitor Power Supply
If your base loses power, Windtraps stop working. Use Solar Arrays or Generators for consistent energy. - Expand Your Water Network
Add multiple Cisterns and connect them to avoid bottlenecks.
Are Windtraps Worth It?
Absolutely—if you play smart. They’re not for players who need instant water, but for those who value automation, Windtraps are a game-changer. Here’s why:
- Passive income: Collect water while offline.
- Low power cost: Frees up energy for other machines.
- Scalable: More Windtraps = more water.
However, if you’re a hardcore grinder, Deathstills might suit you better.