Windmill Power FAQ's

Below we have listed the most frequently asked questions in regard to utilizing home windmill power for the average home. The terms wind
generator, wind turbine and windmill are used interchangeably as they are all one and the same, especially for our residential purposes here. We are going to look at what is in the marketplace to accomplish this and if the products available will contribute to the goal of living off the grid.

How Does Home Windmill Power Function?

A wind turbine is normally set on a tower and it takes the kinetic wind energy and transforms that into electricity
that we use in our homes. This is normally done in concert with the electric company to insure a steady
supply of power to our home. It is possible that with enough wind, after all our demand is met, that the
power can then be sold back to the electric utility.

When your system is producing more than your needs, you may be able to set up what is known as net metering. You
may also be able to have your account credited for the overage your system generates.

You may also want to include a system that involves a battery backup. This will allow your system to be charged during
the day and meet your needs in the event of a power outage.
This Department of Energy photo displays a typical home wind turbines system.

How Do Home Wind Turbines Produce On Calm Days?

There will be little if any electricity produced on days that have little to no wind. Site evaluation would indicate
that you should try to have an annual average of at least 7-9 miles per hour.

Can A Small Home Windmill Save Me Money ?

The average savings that have been reported are between 50 to 90%. Total savings will depend on the cost
of your system, your average wind speed and how much power you use and other factors.

How Large Or Small Should The Wind Turbine Be?

If you are an average home owner your monthly usage will be in the 780kwh range. If the wind speed in your
area meets the criteria, you will find that a wind turbine in the area of 5-15 kilowatts will make a significant
difference in your utility costs.

What Part Of The Country Have Home Wind Turbines Been Successful?

The most successful parts of the country to have implemented this technology to date, have been the
Northeast and Midwest. With progress rapidly being made, you will see other areas successful as well.

What Is Maintenance Like On These Units ?

There is little to no maintenance involved as there are few moving parts and today's designs seldom
require regular maintenence. Most are designed for a 20 year period and work automatically.

Will I Have To Modify My Home's Electrical System?

The answer is no you won't have to alter anything. The electric company will probably put in a
separate meter to measure the amount of overage you are generating back into the grid. This
is providing the correct conditions prevail for your system.

How Do I Know My Area Has Enough Wind To Do This?

The Department of Energy has a country wide map that is divided into states for you to check your area.
This is a preliminary check and not deemed 100%.
Here is the web address: http://www.windpoweringamerica.gov/wind_maps.asp

Will A Windmill Turbine Be Noisy?

There will be a small amount of noise that most people do not find objectionable. A small system would
make less noise than your dishwasher.

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Here is a quick video of a Texas Couple that took this to the extreme. Although this is not what we are talking about here
it is a fun watch to see how far you can take this technology.

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Conclusion

This is not only very easy to do, but is probably the wave of the future. There is a product that has been developed for the rest
of us. The author is Michael Harvey and has one of the top rated websites on home wind turbines on the web. He has been
involved with the industry for over 15 years and has developed the top selling product called Earth 4 Energy. I like the fact that
he takes you by the hand and shows you exactly how to build your own wind system.
Here is a graphic of his product: To visit his site click here or click on the graphic.

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the latest info on renewable energies as they become available. Best of success on your energy projects!