Home Wind Power

From LoveToKnow GreenLiving


If you're looking to save money on energy and a sustainable resource, home wind power might be the answer for you.

Wind Power for Your Home

Money Saved on Electricity

The efficiency of wind energy is well known and becoming more popular. The money saved for homes run totally on electricity is substantial. Energy bills are commonly reduced to as little as $8-$15 for nine months out of the year, and in northern states with less need for air conditioning, the amounts can be even less. How much you can save by switching to wind power will depend on the climate of where you live and the average wind speed, but the one thing you can know is that overall you will save.

Is Home Wind Power Right for You?

While wind power typically lowers electricity bills by as much as 50 to 90 percent, it is not an option for every home. Some things to consider include:

  • Size of the wind turbine: Wind turbines are large and not allowed in some suburban communities and urban settings.
  • Average wind speed: How much money you'll save will be directly related to the average wind speed of where you live. When considering wind power for your home, wind speed should be at least 10 mpg on average. You can obtain wind resource data from the U.S. Department of Energy.
  • Hilly and mountainous regions: If you live in an mountainous or hilly area a wind power system won't work for you if your home is located in a sheltered area. Check average wind speeds to be sure that wind power is right for your home.

Other Factors to Consider

The money saved and the benefits to the environment make wind turbines a very attractive energy option. However, it's important to consider the disadvantages of home wind power. One disadvantage to note is that turbines do make noise . For most people, the noise isn't bothersome. If this might be a concern to you, visit a site where a turbine has been installed to listen with your own ears to make an accurate determination according to your own sensitivity to noise.

A second thing to think about is the size of the tower needed for your wind turbine. Towers most often are between 80-120 feet so that the turbine stands above the trees and other obstacles that can affect wind flow. Wind velocity increases with altitude and the height of the tower directly relates to increased turbine performance.

Advantages to Different Types of Turbines

Shopping for the wind turbine right for your home will depend on your budget and whether or not you plan to install the turbine yourself. Here are a few things to help you make an informed decision.

  • Most Economical Type: Guyed lattice tower
  • Easy to Install Yourself: Hinged tower
  • Low Maintenance: In general, small turbines have few moving parts and require the least maintenance

Should You Install a Wind Turbine Yourself?

The most obvious advantage to installing a wind turbine yourself is the money you save, but beyond that self-installation gives you a hands-on understanding of the mechanics. If you are interested in installing your turbine, talk to various manufacturers to learn what your options are. Most will give you a price for ready-to-operate installation versus do-it-yourself. If you do install your own turbine you'll have less customer support.

Small Wind Turbine Manufacturers

When choosing wind power for your home, often the most reasonable way to generate clean, on-site electricity is to install a turbine with the capacity to generate 100 kilowatts and under. Installing a wind turbine is a long term energy solution, so be sure to do your research to find the turbine right for your location and needs.

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