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Wind Turbines

A Comprehensive Guide to Calculate your Total Energy Needs

Sizing battery and inverters for your off grid home

Living off the grid is a dream for many seeking a self-sufficient and sustainable lifestyle. While solar panels are a popular choice for generating renewable energy, harnessing the power of wind can be an excellent complementary solution. Small wind turbines, designed for residential and off-grid applications, offer a reliable and cost-effective way to meet your energy needs. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various types of small wind turbines and the key factors to consider when integrating them into your off-grid homestead.

Types of Small Wind Turbines

Small wind turbines come in different shapes and sizes, each with its own unique features and advantages. Understanding the different types can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements.
 
 

Appliance Energy Consumption Guide

Remember, "Energy Star" rated appliances are significantly more efficient. These are estimates; always prioritize actual nameplate data.

Appliance Category Appliance Typical Wattage Range (W) Typical Daily Usage (Hours) Daily Energy (Wh) Range Notes
Kitchen Refrigerator (Energy Star) 100 - 200 W (running) 6 - 8 (cycling) 600 - 1600 Wh Older models can be 500-800W running; huge energy hog.
Freezer (Chest, E. Star) 80 - 150 W (running) 6 - 8 (cycling) 480 - 1200 Wh Upright freezers use more.
Microwave Oven 600 - 1500 W 0.1 - 0.5 (10-30 min) 60 - 750 Wh High power, short use.
Electric Kettle 1200 - 1800 W 0.1 - 0.2 (5-10 min) 120 - 360 Wh Very high power. Consider stovetop kettle.
Coffee Maker (Drip) 800 - 1200 W 0.2 - 0.5 (brewing + warm) 160 - 600 Wh French press or pour-over uses no electricity for brewing.
Toaster / Toaster Oven 800 - 1800 W 0.1 - 0.2 (5-10 min) 80 - 360 Wh
Dishwasher (Energy Star) 1200 - 1500 W (heating) 1 - 2 (per cycle) 1200 - 3000 Wh Use air dry; only run full loads. Many avoid off-grid.
Electric Range/Oven 1000 - 3000 W per burner 0.5 - 2 500 - 6000+ Wh Major consumer. Propane is strongly recommended for off-grid cooking.
Blender / Food Processor 300 - 750 W 0.05 - 0.1 (few minutes) 15 - 75 Wh
Laundry Washing Machine (E. Star) 300 - 500 W (average) 0.5 - 1 (per load) 150 - 500 Wh Front-loaders are more efficient. Hot water uses more (if electric).
Electric Clothes Dryer 2000 - 5000 W 1 - 1.5 (per load) 2000 - 7500 Wh Massive consumer. Propane dryer or clothesline is essential off-grid.
Lighting LED Bulb (60W equiv.) 8 - 12 W 4 - 8 32 - 96 Wh (per bulb) Always choose LEDs.
CFL Bulb (60W equiv.) 13 - 18 W 4 - 8 52 - 144 Wh (per bulb) LEDs are better.
Incandescent Bulb (60W) 60 W 4 - 8 240 - 480 Wh (per bulb) Avoid entirely.
Electronics Laptop Computer 20 - 75 W 2 - 8 40 - 600 Wh
Desktop Computer (w/monitor) 80 - 350 W 2 - 8 160 - 2800 Wh Laptops are far more efficient.
LCD/LED TV (32-55 inch) 50 - 150 W 2 - 5 100 - 750 Wh Larger/older TVs use more.
Internet Router/Modem 5 - 20 W 24 120 - 480 Wh Often on 24/7.
Phone Charger 5 - 15 W 1 - 3 5 - 45 Wh
Gaming Console 100 - 250 W 1 - 4 100 - 1000 Wh
HVAC & Water Well Pump (Submersible) 300 - 1200 W (1/3-1HP) 0.5 - 2 (total run time) 150 - 2400 Wh Critical load. Surges high on startup.
Ceiling Fan 15 - 75 W 6 - 12 90 - 900 Wh Efficient cooling.
Small Window AC Unit 500 - 1500 W 4 - 8 (on hot days) 2000 - 12000 Wh Very high consumption. Design home for passive cooling if possible.
Electric Water Heater 3000 - 5500 W 1 - 3 (heating cycles) 3000 - 16500 Wh Extreme consumer. Solar hot water or propane on-demand is vital.
Hair Dryer 1200 - 1800 W 0.1 - 0.2 (5-10 min) 120 - 360 Wh High power, short use.
Tools/Misc. Vacuum Cleaner 500 - 1200 W 0.2 - 0.5 (weekly) 100 - 600 Wh (per use)
Power Tools (Drill, Saw) 300 - 1500 W Varies (infrequent) Varies High draw, but usually not for long continuous periods.
Sump Pump 300 - 800 W Varies (seasonal/event) Varies Critical if needed.
 
 

Off-Grid Energy Needs Calculator

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