An area that has adequate wind can simply have a wind-based energy system that enhances the energy provided by the local utility company. A residential wind turbine is a great alternative source in meeting energy requirements. It is often configured in combination with a photovoltaic system, as most of the parts required for wind power generation are also needed for solar power. Once ensconced on top of a tower, a wind turbine accumulates kinetic energy from the wind and transfers it to electricity attuned with a home’s electrical system.

Most homes which use residential wind power also draw electricity from their local utility company as well. If wind speeds are below the turbine’s cut in speed (typically 7-10 mph), then the turbine will produce no power and all of the home’s energy needs will be met by the utility company. However, when wind speeds are above the turbine’s cut in speed, then the turbine generates power, lessening the amount drawn from the power grid. Any electricity produced which is above and beyond that needed for the home may be sold back to the local electricity supplier.

Small-scale wind systems for remote applications function rather differently. The wind turbine normally lessens electricity bills by half and it’s not unusual for wind turbine owners with total-electric homes to have lesser monthly utility bills. The amount of money a small wind turbine will depend upon its cost, the chunk of electricity used, the average wind speed at the site, and other factors pertaining to its usage.

A wind power system is dependent on the average wind speed in the area where it is installed. Homeowners will find that their turbines yield the best results when installed in areas which see average wind speeds of 10 mph and up.

However, home owners don’t usually need to take measurements of wind speed in order to use residential wind power systems. This data is already freely available without having to do your own tests; though you may want to look up the average wind speed in your area before you install. If you happen to live somewhere which has enough wind to make a residential wind turbine cost effective, then you may go ahead and install the residential wind turbine in confidence.

Residential wind systems are quiet and don’t interfere with television or other electronic signals and can be installed with relative ease. Your local utility may even install an additional meter in your home to measure the excess electricity your wind power system is feeding back into the power grid.

You can choose from ready to install wind turbine systems which are ready to go with a minimal amount of work or purchase the parts you’ll need to build and install your own residential wind power system. If you’re mechanically inclined, you can save a tidy sum by installing your own system, though a ready to install system has the advantage of coming with customer support in case you have any questions as you install. Homeowners should ponder which of these systems is best for their home and decide accordingly.

Homeowners can save a lot of money by installing a home wind power generator. These alternative energy technologies have the additional advantage of being environmentally friendly. A wind turbine doesn’t produce any pollution and greatly reduces the amount of fossil fuels needed to power your home.