Many folks have decided to cut the cord these days, with many going even further and deciding to live “off-the-grid.” There are key factors to consider when making this life altering decision and this choice shouldn’t be taken lightly. Do your homework first as there are numerous variables to consider like everything from a friendly location and power to a water source and food!
It's no secret the power grid has become outdated and more prone to outages. Increasing living expenses with record inflation, overcrowded cities and rising crime for example are just a few reasons people are looking for alternatives like tiny homes, sheds, and yurts, or simply turning vans into living spaces. Suddenly “living in a van down by the river” is seen as appealing, when just a short time ago it was the butt of a joke.
Look For A User-Friendly Location
Weather, temperature, and ease of addition of anything you must have when “living off the grid” is a big factor here. Choosing a location without harsh winters or extreme summers will allow you to use less power to remain comfortable.
What’s nearby? Is there an easy water source you can legally tap? How much rain falls on the desired land? If you have a desire to be somewhat connected, maybe like a well with running water or waste management in the form of a septic tank—you’ll have to consider those questions when you decide where and how much are you willing to give up?
Lastly, with climate also comes the question, can you live off the land to some degree? Can you grow food, take a deer or elk each season to put meat on the table to compliment your veggies and fruit?
What’s Going To Power Your New Pad?
So, you don’t want to give up the internet, TV, heat, AC, maybe a pump for water? Well, you’re going to have to set your new home up with a couple of power options. A solar panel system with charging abilities is key. But solar panels are no good if you are in an area prone to cloudy weather and if you choose a wooded lot, shade might be a big factor. So, choose wisely and get backup battery packs so if the sun isn’t shining, the battery packs can supply energy for a couple days.
You can also have a generator do the work for you. Generators can run on gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas. So, you could be “off the grid” but still have access to basic gas or fuels to power a generator when you need more reliable power fast. Here at Generator Mart—we can help with smaller solar systems and generators ranging from small portables to whole home power models.
Wind could be another idea to help with power if you live in a windy area off the grid. Waterpower is also a possibility, but solar, wind and a generator would be best by far. The more power generating options you have, the better chance you will enjoy your new living arrangement.
Obviously, when you see how much energy you use and watch the supply drop like your cell phone when watching viral videos, you will also be a lot more mindful of how much you use and control waste in a more conservative manner. Also, when it comes to building your tiny home, yurt, container home or even cabin, think about energy conservation as you build like using quality insulation for starters.
Rainwater Collection System?
If you don’t opt for a well to get water, you could also always get water from a stream, river or lake and spend a lot of time boiling it and filtering the water to make it drinkable. Many “off-the-grid” folks count on rain-collection systems.
For starters, you’ll of course want to pick a location where it rains a decent amount. Most people don’t realize, even a storm that only produces a decent drizzle, will yield quite a bit of rainwater. Hiring a pro to build your system is highly recommended as the engineering isn’t that tough, but the filtering system will take a little bit of extra work to get it right. And you’ll want to make sure it is legal to collect rainwater to drink where you plan to live. (Colorado and Utah are the only states where it is illegal or limited 12/2022)
Staying In Communication
Here we go! How “off-the-grid” do you want to be? Do you still want to be in touch with folks via e-mail and the Internet—maybe work remotely and do freelance work? Or do you want to rely on a satellite phone and be isolated. This would be the best bet to avoid health concerns or some type of emergency where you might need to call for help.
If you are way out there, far from standard internet access, you might have to use a satellite WIFI hotspot or do without. This would power basic messaging for weather and news… maybe just weather updates or warnings. Do your research, find what’s offered in your future neck of the woods.
Grow Your Own
Did you pick a location where you can grow food in a garden or raise animals? This option obviously makes food gathering easier. Having a few acres would make this a viable option so you don’t have to count on a corner store or supermarket to find something to eat. Get your green thumb out and find suitable soil for this game plan.
As for animals, raise chickens for eggs and meat or rabbits for meat, and both will add more to your herd quickly. If you’re more of an outdoorsman, a local lake holds fish, maybe a turkey or deer hunt or even trapping can be an option. Just remember, Uncle Sam and Big Brother both have their hands on a lot of land use and hunting and fishing rules. Just because you want to live off the land—doesn’t mean you can live like a trapper in the 1800s.
Final Thought
This is just a helpful feature to help you scratch the surface on the idea of “Off-The-Grid” living. Your idea and my idea of actually living off the grid might be very different. Some might just want to go tiny and disconnect from city power while someone else might want to be dropped off in the Alaskan bush and maybe never see another person again. Whatever your dream, enjoy!