Learning about off-grid power may seem like a daunting task. While some folks opt for total off-grid living, meaning no power at all, most will rely on some form of power for basics like lights and device charging. If you have an open, exposed area you may be a good candidate for solar. Most places rely on a combination of solar and generator power to keep batteries charged.
The first thing to learn would be what is your current power situation. Have outlets checked by a professional to see if they are grounded and functioning correctly. One of the most common causes of house fires is improperly grounded wiring. Even off-grid power systems need proper installation!
Reid Goforth at Olympus Electric Group can evaluate your property for solar and check out old wiring for proper grounding. Based on the power draw of the items in your home, he can recommend the correctly sized generator, deep cycle batteries and inverter to make an effective and efficient power system.
Unlike other appliances, a generator needs to supply only the amount necessary. To buy the right generator for your needs, calculate the total wattage of all appliances you want to power simultaneously, considering both running and starting wattage, and choose a generator with a capacity slightly higher than that total to ensure it can handle surges; also factor in the type of generator (portable vs. standby), fuel source, noise level, and portability based on your specific usage scenario.
This leads into deep cycle batteries and inverters. Major appliances such as clothing washers or dishwashers require more power and may run directly from the generator. Most of the time, a small portion of that energy is needed for charging devices, lights and most small household items. Olympus will design a system based around the items you use most and recommend a number of batteries and inverter/control systems calculated to meet your needs and the needs of guests.
If you are considering short term rentals, there is a lot to think about with regards to power. After the home has been inspected by a licensed professional for proper grounding, a guest should be able to easily access power without too much reading. While generators with key fob starts and push button starts are nice in ideal weather, they tend to fail when used intermittently or when it gets very cold. A closed system ensures minimal interaction from your guest with the power system. A generator that turns on to charge batteries automatically as needed means your guest has no access to pre-programmed run times, the generator itself, or the power switch.
While every on-grid amenity can be made to work off-grid, consider that each item has a cost. Not only the number and size of batteries, but the capacity of the generator. The items with the largest power draw that most off-grid cabins go without are microwaves, hair dryers, EV charging, dishwashers, and washer/dryers. For cabins that will have renters, consider the return for the cost. Clothing washer and dryer may be essential for added nightly value and for the cleaners to use on-site!
Whatever your power needs, having a partner like Olympus to help you through the learning curve is such a relief. Their team has been working in the upriver area long enough for the locals, (and several members of Cascade River Park) to recommend them from Rockport to Marblemount.
Olympus Electric Group
Reid Goforth
olympuselectricgroup@gmail.com
360-707-1556
