As inflation hits and energy prices continue to rise, it’s a good idea to get your home off the power grid.
While you might not want to go completely off the grid, cutting back on utility costs not only saves you money but helps save the planet. Here are some ways to get your home off the power grid.
1. Install Solar Roof Tiles
If you live in a sunny area, solar powered homes with solar roof tiles installed on the roof are a great idea. Solar panels will work anywhere there is sunshine, but they work better in the southern portion of the country where sunshine is more prevalent. Also, some cities offer tax breaks if you install solar panels.
Although solar panels used to be heavy and expensive, the newer photovoltaic tiles are lighter and tougher. While they can be expensive to install, they can last up to 30 years. They’ll pay for themselves over that time in reduced utility bills.
2. Use a River To Power Your Home
If you’re fortunate enough to live near a river, you might be able to power your home using a micro-hydroelectric system. Water running through a pipe spins a magnet and produces electricity. You have to have specific conditions to have a micro-hydroelectric system and water that runs all the time, but it could save you on utility bills.
3. Get a Residential Wind Turbine
Mention the word wind turbine and most people think of those giant systems with huge blades, but a residential wind turbine system is much smaller. If you live on an acreage that tends to be windy, this might be a good system. Keep in mind that these systems can be even more expensive than solar panels, but you could get those investment costs back within ten years. You could also qualify for a tax incentive.
4. Buy a Geothermal Heat Pump
A geothermal heat pump borrows heat from the earth during the winter months and uses it to heat the home. During the summer months, it takes heat from the house and sinks it back into the ground where it runs that air through underground pipes to cool it before pumping it back into your home again.
5. Invest in a Solar/Hybrid System
For those days when you can’t count on the weather to be continually sunny or constantly windy, a solar/wind hybrid system can do a great job producing electricity for your home. It’s the best of both worlds and a way to have electricity no matter what the forecast.
With whatever off-grid system you choose, you will also need to buy a generator to store that electricity. A generator converts power from a direct current to an alternating current that you can use with your appliances.
While the cost of any of these systems can be high, you will be able to make that money back within a few years. Think of it as a long-term investment that gives you back money for years to come.
