Although not yet as popular as gas generators or even solar panels, wind energy has recently become one of the most in-demand backup power technologies in the residential market. Homeowners see it as a cost-effective alternative to grid power. Moreover, wind generators are long-term investments that Contact online >>
Although not yet as popular as gas generators or even solar panels, wind energy has recently become one of the most in-demand backup power technologies in the residential market. Homeowners see it as a cost-effective alternative to grid power. Moreover, wind generators are long-term investments that can last several decades.
Of course, the price issue puts it out of range for many people. According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), it costs a staggering $5,000 and $40,000 to install a wind power system, depending on the output and design,
Read on to learn how a wind generator works, why you should strongly consider installing one, and critical considerations when shopping for a wind power system. We later also review some of the best wind generators to consider.
A wind generator is just another name for a wind turbine. A wind turbine is a device that converts the wind’s kinetic energy into electrical energy. Wind turbines comprise blades that spin when wind passes through them. The rotating turbines, in turn, spin a shaft/coil built into the turbine’s motor.
Remember that motors have a spinning coil sandwiched between two magnets with different polarities. As such, the spinning shaft/coil generates an electromagnetic field, ultimately initiating electron flow that forms an electric current.
Home wind turbines comprise a rotor, a generator or frame-mounted alternator, tail, tower, and wiring. In addition, the systems also have a balancing system comprising controllers, inverters, and batteries.
When there’s wind, the blades spin, transferring kinetic energy to the rotor. The rotary motion drives the generator/alternator, generating alternating current, albeit unstable. The controllers and inverter work side-by-side to stabilize the current and ultimately create stable AC power available via 30A AC, 20A AC, and DC outlets.
Wind turbines are either horizontal axis or vertical axis. Horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs), the most common today, comprise two or three blades and rotate parallel or horizontal to the ground. Meanwhile, vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) rotate perpendicular or vertical to the ground. VAWTs come in two main types, Darrieus (egg-beaters) and Savonius (wind scoopers).
Of course, you also need to ask yourself whether wind power represents your best solution. For instance, some locations work better with solar power, which is just as effective. Or, you may even consider a mini hydroelectric power station, which is typically even more reliable.
If wind seems the best solution, the next step is to follow up with the local authorities to determine whether your zoning laws allow for wind power installation. You should also consider visiting the Distributer Wind Energy Association’s Permitting and Zoning Resource Center to find out what you need to get a permit.
Most states charge a permit fee. For instance, the wind turbine permit costs $1,000 to $5,000 in San Francisco. So, budget accordingly. You’re ready to start thinking about getting and installing a turbine after passing the permit test.
Next, you need to check whether you have enough wind on the site before installing a wind turbine. In fact, you should test the wind strength before you even pay for the permit.
Wind experts recommend installing an anemometer, a device that measures wind speed and direction, at least 12 months in advance to help you determine whether you can generate enough electricity from the wind on your property. Additionally, make sure to check the state wind maps for guidance.
Once you’ve determined that your site has enough wind power to generate power, the next step is to go shopping for a wind turbine. The following considerations should help you get your choice right.
The size of the turbine you need depends on how much electricity you wish to generate. For instance, if you’re solely concerned about powering your home, the average American home uses about 10,649 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, according to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. So, you should be able to go off the grid completely with a 5-15kWh wind turbine. However, you only need 400 watts to 1,000 watts for charging appliances and running the entertainment system.
The number and size of blades on the turbine are also critical factors. Typically, fewer blades result in faster motor rotation, thus more electric current produced per unit time. Meanwhile, more blades tend to encounter more resistance (drag), resulting in lower speeds. The blade’s size (especially the length) also matters as longer blades require a wider buffer zone, thus are unsuited to urban areas.
A wind turbine’s speed rating refers to the average wind speed needed for the turbine to work at peak output. Granted, your turbine will still put out power even at low wind speeds. However, it can only hit the listed energy output at the rated wind speed. Thus, you should consider models with the lowest possible wind speed ratings, as these turbines attain the listed power output more easily. Wind speed ratings typically range from 15 mph to 30 mph.
Weight isn’t one of the most important factors when choosing a wind turbine. However, it’s still important as the weight directly determines the type of tower you need to support the turbine. For instance, while you can install a light turbine on the roof, a sturdy tower is a must for heavier wind turbines.
Finally, you must also consider the equipment’s bells and whistles – the little details that make it stand out. For instance, an automatic braking system is a vital advantage over standard turbines. Charge controllers and low-wind efficiency are other valuable features. Finally, protective coatings, such as marine, anti-UV, and anti-corrosion coatings, are substantial difference makers.
According to AWEA, a wind power system’s rated annual energy output is the calculated total energy the wind system would produce over a year at an average wind speed of 5mps or 11.2mph.
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