Living off-grid means reconnecting to nature. For some, it can mean foraging by the land and connecting to the roots of the natural world around them, but for most, it will simply mean enjoying a peaceful home outside of city or town limits. These remote properties may be connected to electricity but not water and sewage. They may have water access, but the system is too old to be relied upon. Regardless of what level of “off-grid” living you are at, there are a few features that can make it an absolute joy.
Done right, your remote property can become a haven in this fast-paced world, but to get to that stage, you’ll want to add these top additions to your property:
What to Keep in Mind When Living Off-Grid
Living off-grid requires careful planning and consideration of a few key factors:
· Resource Management
You need to use all your resources carefully and again and again. Water should be used, and greywater reused, for example. You can invest in upgraded insulation, and an innovative HVAC system to properly heat your home for less. No matter what your resources are, try to make them go the extra mile.
· Emergency Preparedness
Living in a remote area means being prepared for emergencies. Have backup systems in place, including alternative power sources, emergency supplies, and a communication plan.
Top Features to Add to Your Remote Home
· Garbage Sink Disposal
Installing a garbage sink disposal unit in your kitchen can greatly simplify waste management. It grinds food waste into small particles that can then be safely sent down the drain. If you’re wondering can you have a garbage disposal with a septic tank, the answer is yes – with the right tank. Food waste is mostly water, so it doesn’t add that much bulk to your septic tank. Adding that garbage disposal, then, minimizes food waste and, most importantly, stores that waste where it’s not a draw for the local wildlife, like bins or compost would be.
· Solar Panels
Harnessing solar power is a game-changer for off-grid living. Install solar panels on your property to generate clean and renewable energy. Solar panels can power your home, charge batteries for storage, and provide electricity for various appliances. Embracing solar energy not only reduces your carbon footprint but also ensures a reliable power supply in remote areas.
· Backup Generator
While solar panels are a great source of renewable energy, having a backup generator is essential for situations when solar power may be limited. A backup generator provides an additional power source during cloudy days or in case of system failures. Choose a generator that is fuel-efficient and compatible with your energy needs.
· Kitchen Garden
Growing your own food is not only rewarding but also ensures a fresh and sustainable food supply. Create a kitchen garden by dedicating an area of your property to cultivating fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Opt for low-maintenance and high-yield crops that suit your local climate and soil conditions. Additionally, composting food waste can provide nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
· Rainwater Capture System for Gardening
Install rain barrels or larger cisterns to collect rainwater from your roof. This water you’ve collected can then be used to water your garden, reducing the need for treated water and conserving resources. To make sure it’s super safe, consider using a filtration system to ensure the water is safe for plants.