How to Save Money by Installing Your Own Small Wind Turbine

Introduction

Installing a small wind turbine at your home or business can help reduce your electricity bills and provide clean, renewable energy. With energy prices continuing to rise, generating your own electricity is becoming an increasingly attractive option for many homeowners and businesses. This guide will walk you through the key steps for successfully installing your own small wind turbine to start saving money.

Determining if a Small Wind Turbine is Right for You

Before diving into installation, first determine if a small wind turbine makes sense for your location. Here are some key factors to consider:

Your Property's Wind Resource

• For a wind turbine to be effective, your property needs consistent annual wind speeds of at least 10 mph.

• Use a home anemometer for at least 12 months to measure your site's annual wind speeds at turbine height.

• The higher the average wind speed, the more energy a turbine can generate.

Your Energy Usage

• Estimate your home or business' annual electricity usage. This determines the turbine size needed.

• A general rule is your turbine should be rated for 20-40% above your site's annual energy usage.

Your Property Size

• Most small turbines require at least 1 acre of land space. More space is needed for larger turbines.

• Ensure you have enough room between the turbine and obstacles like trees or structures.

Your Zoning Laws and HOA Rules

• Check local zoning laws and homeowner's association rules regarding wind turbines first. Some limit small wind projects.

• If needed, get approval from your local zoning office and/or HOA before installing a turbine.

Choosing the Right Wind Turbine

If your location seems suitable after checking the factors above, the next step is selecting the right wind turbine model. Here are the key criteria to consider:

Rated Power Output

• Match the turbine's power rating to your estimated electricity usage.

• Under-sized turbines won't generate enough electricity to be worthwhile.

• Many small turbines range from 2 kW to 10 kW output.

Design and Blades

• Opt for a turbine designed specifically for residential/small business use.

• Choose a model with an alternating current (AC) generator matched to your utility.

• Select a turbine with lightweight blades to start spinning in lower winds.

Pole Height

• Pole height directly influences energy production. The higher, the better.

• Most small turbines can accommodate tower heights of 30-80 feet.

• Consider zoning laws when choosing pole height.

Sound Level Rating

• All turbines make some sound. Lower decibel models reduce noise.

• Look for a turbine rated for 45 dBA or less if sound is a concern.

Safety Certifications

• Choose a wind turbine certified to AWEA or UL standards for electrical and fire safety.

• Certified turbines have undergone extensive safety testing.

• Review the warranty coverage. Many turbines come with 5-20 year warranties.

Permitting and Zoning for Your Turbine

Before you can install a wind turbine, proper permitting and approval is needed:

Building Permit

• Most areas require a building permit to install a small wind turbine.

• Apply for a building permit from your local building department.

• Submit the turbine specs, drawings, and certified engineering plans.

Utility Notification

• Contact your electricity utility company to notify them of your turbine plans.

• This is required for any grid-connected turbine installation.

• The utility will inspect your system before final approval.

Zoning Approval

• If your area restricts wind turbines, apply for a zoning variance.

• Show how your turbine complies with all regulations like noise limits or setbacks.

• Being grid-tied vs. off-grid can also influence zoning approval.

HOA Approval

• If required, send your HOA a detailed proposal and plans for review.

• Highlight how the turbine will comply with HOA rules and restrictions.

• Make any revisions requested to gain HOA consent.

Hiring an Installer vs. DIY Installation

You have two options for physically installing your small wind turbine:

Hiring an Installer

Pros

• Licensed installers have extensive experience safely and properly mounting wind turbines.

• They provide certified engineering plans for your specific turbine and site.

• Installers have special equipment to lift and mount the turbine poles and blades.

Cons

• Hiring a professional installer costs $3,000-$6,000 depending on the turbine size.

• You'll need to contract and schedule the installer weeks or months out.

DIY Installation

Pros

• Without labor costs, you can save thousands installing the turbine yourself.

• You can install the turbine on your own timeline.

Cons

• Permitted DIY turbine installs require approved engineered plans.

• You need construction skills, proper safety equipment, and machinery to lift poles.

• Any errors or accidents are your liability.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Once approved and permitted, here are the key steps to install a small wind turbine:

1. Pour the Concrete Foundation

• Dig a hole 3-4 feet deep and slightly wider than the tower base.

• Fill with rebar-reinforced concrete per engineered drawings.

• Let cure completely, generally a week.

2. Erect the Tower

• Use a crane or gin pole to safely lift tower sections into place.

• Bolt flanges together per manufacturer instructions.

• Attach to concrete foundation with anchor bolts.

3. Mount the Turbine

• Attach the turbine head unit to the top of the tower.

• Connect blades, rotate hub, and verify yaw control.

• Ensure all bolts and connections are properly torqued.

4. Wire the Electrical System

• Run copper cables from the turbine down the tower into your breaker panel.

• Ground the system per local and National Electrical Code standards.

• Connect grid-tied systems only after utility approval.

5. Test and Inspect System

• Turn the turbine on and verify proper operation before approving.

• The utility will inspect a grid-tied system for final sign off.

• Correct any issues and retest until fully operational.

Maintenance of Your Small Wind Turbine

Routine maintenance keeps your turbine running cleanly and efficiently:

• Inspect the turbine at least annually for loose bolts, wear, or damage.

• Check guy wires and anchors for proper tension.

• Clear any debris buildup on blades or tower.

• Lubricate turbine yaw and blade pitch bearings biannually.

• Have the windings and slip rings of the generator inspected every 2-3 years.

Conclusion

Installing a small wind turbine is an involved but rewarding project that can pay for itself in energy savings over time. With proper planning, zoning approval, and safe installation, you can successfully harness free wind energy to reduce your electricity costs while powering your home or business with clean, renewable power. Maintain your turbine well and it can provide decades of sustainable energy production.