What Does it Mean to Live Off the Grid?

In a day and age where technology is everywhere, people often think back to the simple times.  Living off the grid is one way people can take a step back from the government-run programs like electrical companies, gas, and even sewer.  In the process, they will avoid using the internet, smartphones, and in general, reduce their carbon footprint.  

If this sounds enticing, be sure to read how to start the process to live off the grid.

Land

An important aspect of living off the grid is finding an area that is not already tied into the resources around it.  Many people buy large areas of land and build their own small home. The better the natural resources on this land the easier it will be for the homeowner to live off the grid.  Using solar panels is an excellent way to stay away from the government-run programs while still using electricity.  

Moving Around

Some people do not want to be stuck in one area for the rest of their lives.  They tend to buy a roomier vehicle like a van. Using solar panels on these vehicles for the times when it is parked can make it feasible to move around when necessary.  Those who love to travel may like this option better.

Tiny Space

Few people who live off the grid are building the large homes typically seen in the suburbs.  These homeowners opt for a small home that is well-designed to avoid any waste or clutter. With a smaller home, it will be easier to heat and cool. Plus, there will be less of an area to use electricity.  

Options for Electricity

As people become more interested in living off the grid they decide they do not want to give up all luxuries.  Electricity is one of those luxuries.  

Living off the grid does not mean going back to days where electrical items were not yet invented.  Instead, people use solar panels or wind turbines. These can be expensive to invest in, but avoiding paying utility bills can help make up for this investment.

Getting Food

Shopping is not on the agenda for someone living off the grid.  Instead, they will need a garden to pick their fresh fruits and vegetables.  If moving to an area where people congregate to live off the grid there may be a communal garden to help with.  Otherwise, it is easy to start a garden.

Most cooking will be completed on a propane stovetop.  Some people also build fire pits so they are still able to have a barbecue.  Living in a community that has a communal area where food is cooked and eaten can create a bigger sense of community.

Refrigeration can be important – especially when the Honolulu days are consistently above seventy or eighty degrees.  Food will go bad quickly. Which is why Investing in a small fridge that uses only a small amount of electricity is a simple alternative to only having the food that can be eaten on that day. 

Plan out what electricity can be produced by alternative sources and be sure not to choose too many electrical items that will suck up this power.

Water

Water is something many people have concerns about when trying to plan their off the grid property.  There is no need to go without a sink, toilet, or shower. But there will no longer be the convenience of a large washer to throw a lot of clothes in.  Plan on finding clothing that will be easy to wash by hand and that will last for a long period of time.

The water source will vary depending on where the homeowner lives. Using a composting toilet can help reduce the amount of water needed.  A propane tank can be used to heat water to avoid cold showers.

Living off the grid is like camping for an extended period of time.  Those that enjoy the work of catching, cooking, and cleaning their food will feel right at home.  Growing a garden and avoiding modern technology is a key element to living off the grid. It is not a situation for everyone but those that like it are able to reduce their carbon footprint and go back to a simpler life.