Short-loop rule
The best source trip is the one that gets water back into production. If the route is long, upgrade carrying capacity or reduce water use before making it your main loop.
- Refill before leaving.
- Carry enough to justify the trip.
- Return before the base loses rhythm.
Drained-source response
When a nearby source dries out, do one planned search instead of wandering. Mark the next usable source in your route and return to the factory after the first useful haul.
- Search with a clear purpose.
- Do not chain unplanned routes.
- Spend after the first return.
Cold route timing
Colder-area access is stronger after bucket capacity and early production are stable. A cold route with weak carry capacity can waste more time than it saves.
- Upgrade bucket before long cold trips.
- Use crystals when the cold area is the blocker.
- Add coolant when water burn is the blocker.