1. Have you checked the wind speed?
Before installing a DIY wind power generator, it must be kept in mind that the site or area where you are going to erect the turbine is crucial to the flow of energy. Thus the key concept here is to get the most out of the wind turbine by erecting it in a suitable place. To detect wind speeds in hilly areas, an anemometer will be required. In plain areas, it is not necessary.
These tools can come in handy. Wind energy maps can be gathered from the nearest department of energy or even by searching the web. Keep in mind if there are a lot of trees around, how high you plan to erect the turbine, etc. Large obstacles like buildings are best kept away from as they diminish the flow of wind.
2. Check into local laws to be sure you have permission to build.
In some cities wind turbines have not yet been legalized. In other areas government employees are open to the technology and are more eager to lend help. States such as New Hampshire have special regulations you must follow. In addition, there may be a permit fee.
3. It is good to get the gist of the project before starting installation of the DIY wind power generator.
Many beginners are making this mistake knowingly or unknowingly. If you are an electrical engineer then you may be able to wing it but others new to building must be careful to do the proper research reading before marching.
Many of the tutorials available online are not worth following. Be careful when you choose online manuals and DVDs on how to install wind turbines. Here is a comparison of the best DIY guides to get your started.
4. For ready-made turbines, get to know the product and seller.
Suppose you bought a ready-made DIY wind turbine and you have no technical support. How are you going to resolves issues you may come across?
Be sure the company you are buying from has a 1-800 number. You may want to try out their number and get some information before shopping to be sure they have a responsive staff.
The e-mail support team may answer the request is too late and so it is good to have a few other options as you are going to invest your valuable money into this.
The main reason to assemble a wind turbine yourself is to save money but make sure your unit does not get left behind into the garage. If things get hairy, you can always find a company to install it for you.
5. Are you not clear about the type of warranty they are offering?
Some people don’t read up about the warranty on products and pay the price later. See what terms are addressed, such as “any defects found in” or “the product will be replaced or refurbished at the expense of the seller” etc.
There are provisions that the seller has to refurbish or replace the whole product in case found non-working at the arrival time. Ask about the conditions when you receive the defected items at your door and not a couple of months later.
6. Are you not talking to DIY wind turbine owners, mostly neighbors already?
These are the people who can tell all the good and bad about the product they are already using. It is a great help before buying a wind turbine of your own.
In many situations the best way to learn about the law provisions is by approaching your closest neighbors. If you fill in the legal forms wisely no grouchy neighbors can file complaints. Still, try to be considerate about noise levels so everyone is happy.
Another place to look online is yahoo groups; here you can find people who are building themselves and also others installing DIY wind power turbines.
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