Sometimes you just want to be free of the constraints of modern-day living, or you live in an area that gets a lot of blackouts. Off-grid living sounds pretty inviting. But, even though you are getting away from using electricity, there are certain comforts you’ve no doubt come to live with and take advantage of. So it’s difficult to let them go.
What Is Off-Grid Living?
Off-the-grid living is living without electricity. Or at least electrically connected to the power grid. This means that you are on your own. You may use a few items with electricity, but for the most part, things like dishwashers and entertainment centers are no longer. There are many alluring benefits to going off-grid, including that it’s a more simplistic lifestyle. People also choose it for its eco-friendliness and because they simply don’t like paying for electricity. Here are all the machines that you need for off-grid living.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are the off-gridders dream. They make going off-grid realistic and allow you to enjoy some of the creature comforts you’ve become accustomed to. For instance, if you have big enough solar panels, you can enjoy that entertainment system without guilt about its impact on the environment. Solar panels work by collecting sunlight and turning it into electricity. When it’s cloudy, it uses stored energy from the sunny times, so there is little chance of running out. However, many people pair their solar panels with a generator, so there is always power, just in case.
Water Filtration System
Off-grid means living without the local water service. There is an alternative to this. You can collect rainwater as it falls onto your roof. Collect in a barrel or another container at the bottom of your downspouts. You can then have it pumped and filtered for use in your house. A water filtration system will keep your water quality high while also keeping it safe for drinking. Make sure that there’s a lot of room inside the barrel so that you don’t waste any water and it gets saved for when there is a dry spell.
Tractor
You need a tractor to handle all the jobs on your property that you now need to do. You have to move large objects from one area to another, and you need to grow food. A tractor can be a lifesaver when you are tilling or preparing the soil. Some people like to go all-out and be disconnected from the grid and from using gasoline or diesel. If that’s the case, you can go with a horse-drawn tractor. Make sure that on those hot or rainy days, you have a tractor canopy to protect you from the elements.
Laundry Machine
Laundry machines take up a lot of electricity, making them less efficient if you have solar panels. Luckily, you can get laundry machines that run on the power of your own sweat. Hand-turning washing machines work just as fast as powered machines, and they don’t use any electricity. All you need is some warm water and detergent. Unfortunately, most detergents are not biodegradable so you can use an alternative, like vinegar and baking soda.
Solar Water Heater Kit
You may get water, but showers aren’t so comfortable without hot water. So install a hot water system in your home. It uses vacuum tubes and copper piping and can give you warm water in a few hours. You can also attach a basin for storage to have hot water at a moment’s notice. It might be best to have this connected separately by solar panels so that you’re not using your home’s power.
Solar Shower
Never worry about showering when you don’t take consistent water. You can leave this outside with a basin full of water. It will slowly heat up until it is ready for use. It has an attached showerhead, so all you have to do is hang it up, and away you go. Make sure you thoroughly rinse yourself before the water runs out, as they hold approximately 3 gallons.
Wood Stove or Fireplace
A woodstove will help you eat cooked foods and will help heat your home as well. You should always keep in mind that they are dangerous, however. You can start with a fireplace and build your way up to a wood stove. Burning wood releases carbon monoxide, so you’ll have to check the air pressure gauge to ensure it isn’t building up.
An oven can also keep the house warm while giving you a way to cook delicious foods. Choose a convection model because it is more efficient and will heat food more evenly. They are also easier to clean, which is a bonus when water is limited.
Bicycle
Getting from point A to point B can be difficult, especially if you’ve chosen to go without a car. A bicycle is a perfect solution that will also help you get some exercise. It’s also gentle on the environment. Make sure to use high-quality parts since you’ll be giving them heavy use. Also, make sure to wear a helmet and other protective equipment.
All told, approximately 250,000 people live off the grid in the United States. Every one of them chose to be disconnected from the power grid and live a different kind of lifestyle. You can do it, too, with the right equipment and the right mindset.
