Small Wind Turbines: An Overview

What are small wind turbines and how can we utilize them?

Which are the best small wind turbines? What are they good for and how can they be useful? These are some basic but pertinent questions which many people might ask when first starting to look at wind turbines and researching the possibilities regarding their energy efficiency and power output. Put simply, small wind turbines are a more basic and smaller version of the large scale turbines often seen on wind farms. A small scale wind turbine may be as small as 7 feet or up to around 25 feet tall. Often used in domestic situations they can be used to power lights and refrigerators and they can generate up to 10,000 watts of electricity which is no small feat when you consider that they are creating power from the wind!

Small wind turbines and where to put them

It stands to reason that small wind turbines won’t do well if they are not in the path of the weather. In built-up or urban areas, it can be difficult to find a suitable site with clear access to the wind. The best spots for smaller models are usually the higher ones. Rooftops make handy bases for small wind turbines, though it is important to ensure that the vibrations from the turning blades do not damage the roof or indeed put it under undue pressure. Before installing any structures on your roof, it is a good idea to get it checked by a professional. Loose tiles for instance can pose a hazard when a vibrating turbine is added to the mix! Another major point to remember is that the natural landscape can pose hazards such as overhanging branches or foliage which impedes the workings of a wind turbine.

What types of Small Wind Turbines are available?

Many small wind turbines which can be seen today in domestic situations are horizontal axis turbines but it is becoming clear that vertical axis turbines are increasing in popularity. This is down to the simple fact that they can capture the wind from all directions and also because they are far more workable in situations where a great height is not achievable. Homes in Urban areas for instance may benefit from what a vertical axis turbine has to offer. If you are interested in researching wind turbines for domestic use then the following hints and tips are worth remembering before you go shopping.

• Small turbines can generate as much as 10,000 watts of power
• The higher they are placed the more energy efficient they are
• Be sure that there are no natural hazards near your chosen site. That tree may be bare for part of the year, but what about next season?
•  Rooftop turbines should be placed only on stable and well maintained roofs.

All in all, wind turbines are a growing and important part of the worlds growing awareness of the need to preserve power and use clean energy where possible. Research well and keep an open mind.