Windmill Power for Home Use

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 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 Work For Me?

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 can also 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.

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 maintenance. 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.

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 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 shows you exactly how to build your own wind and solar system.
Here is a graphic of his product: To visit his site click on the product graphic.