Learn how to craft and use Dew Collectors
Introduced in the Alpha 21 Update, the new Dew Collector workbench in 7 Days to Die is designed to help you produce water in a world where water bottles can no longer be refilled. This simple idea makes use of a plastic tarp to collect rain and dew that is then filtered and stored in a plastic barrel.
This guide will walk you through how to craft and set up Dew Collectors and offer advice on how they can be used to your advantage.
How to craft Dew Collectors
Though nearly vital to your overall survival, these devices will require some hard-to-source materials and at least level 2 in the Workbench Crafting skill.
Specifically, each Dew Collector requires:
- 1 Water Filter
- 100 Scrap Polymers
- 4 Short Iron Pipes
- 4 Duct Tape
Water Filters can only be purchased from traders, and each costs around 2250 Dukes without any bargaining perks. Scrap Polymers can be scavenged from loot containers or trash piles or salvaged from plastic or cardboard objects such as barrels, utility carts, or cardboard boxes. Short Iron Pipes can be salvaged from structures like pipe fixtures or rusted vehicles or created in a Forge. Duct Tape may be looted from household or tool containers or crafted by combining Glue and cloth scraps.
The Workbench Crafting skill can only be improved by finding and reading issues of the Forge Ahead skill book. The Advanced Engineering perk can increase your chances of finding this book.
How to use Dew Collectors
Once you’ve constructed a Dew Collector, it’s time to put it to use. These are the simplest workbenches to use and therefore require little preparation. You will, however, need to keep a few things in mind.
Here are some tips on how to use your Dew Collectors effectively:
Open Skies
Dew Collectors are supposed to collect dew and rainwater to filter for drinking and other purposes. However, if it’s cooped up inside where it’s warm and dry, it can’t do that. Make sure your Dew Collectors have a clear path from their location to the sky. Placing them on your roof or in a garden is a great way to keep them protected while still allowing them to function.
Size
These workbenches are pretty big, both horizontally and vertically. For that reason, make sure to reserve enough space to place your Dew Collector where it won’t be in your way.
Patience
Water collection takes time, so you’ll likely need to find alternative sources of hydration while this device collects and filters. You may also wish to construct additional Dew Collectors to speed up water production.
Tips and tricks for using Dew Collectors
- Balconies, roofs, and fenced-in courtyards are all great places to place dew collectors.
- Dew Collectors produce water at a rate of about 3 units every 24 hours, so plan accordingly.
- We recommend constructing multiple Dew Collectors to ensure you don’t run out of water.
- Each collector can only hold 3 jars of water at a time, so be sure to empty them regularly so they can keep producing.
Final thoughts on Dew Collectors
The Fun Pimps have altered the overall survival balance of 7 Days to Die to be much more “hydrationally” challenged. While players have mixed opinions on this decision, there’s no denying the Dew Collector is now one of the most important Workbenches in the early game.
Looking for some other tips to help you get started in 7 Days to Die? Check out our 10 Tips for Getting Started and the 7 Days to Die Beginner’s Guide.
