If you are considering a hybrid system using wind energy as one of the power sources, then it's important to balance the system, where say, instead of using more (solar) photovoltaic panels, you may need to increase the size of the generator - or visa versa. We can help you with these determinations.

Some wind generators may be erected right on top of a home or building, or by attaching a tower to the side of a building, but unless there are adequate vibration isolators, there will be some structural vibration. We do not recommend this practice with larger generators, on smaller homes, older homes or buildings with lightweight frames. A separate tower should be used for these installations, which may still be close to the building if desired.
 

Besides wind speed and having a location for the generator, it's important to install proper electrical grounding for the tower and unit. It's also generally recommended that the unit be 20 feet higher than any structure or other item that's within 100 or so feet of the tower. This is just a rule of thumb, and it depends on exactly what is nearby, production expectations, etc.

Voltages available in wind generators vary from unit to unit, and some are adjustable. Both low and high voltage models are available in varying voltages, from 12 volts to 240 volts. We can supply you with small, medium and large generators.

An ideal wind generator site has an average wind speed of 15 MPH or more. This is not to say that a site with less than a 15 MPH average isn't a potential site. When one considers the potential output from a generator, even at average speeds of 9 - 10 MPH, wind generators can be more cost effective than solar modules over similar production periods, especially since wind generators can produce over a broader range of time - as in the day or night time.

Wind generators produce varying amounts of power depending on wind speed. They'll usually begin to spin between 6 - 8 MPH and begin producing useable charging amps beginning at around 10 MPH. Wind speeds of 25 - 30 MPH are required for the generators maximum rated output. So, you may have a breezy 10 MPH wind with short gusts of 15, 20 or 25 throughout the day and/or evening. The charging amps will therefore vary from moment to moment, so we look at averages over a day, week, month and year. Keep in mind that wind speed at the top of a tower is higher than along the ground.

Wind generators can power water pumps directly when the generator and water pump are matched for such an application. This eliminates the need for storage batteries, inverters, and other components.

A wind generator must usually have a built-in governing feature where after wind speeds exceed a certain point, the generator will begin to slow itself down, so as not to over-speed and potentially cause damage to the blades or alternator. Most all of the generators we sell have built-in governing features. Some units do not require governing by design.

A wind generator should also have a "break" or method of stopping the unit. This is usually done with a control box and switch where the unit is "grounded", creating sufficient drag to stop the unit on smaller generators, rather than some sort of mechanical break like your automobile. Much larger units may have a mechanical brake.

Since wind generators produce varying amounts of amps, only certain items should be connected directly to this source like the previous example of directly powering a "matched" water pump. Grid-tie is also viable using an inverter to process the charge amps creating a "sell" feature, however higher average wind speeds are required to make this option cost effective.

However, when the unit's charge amps are used to power normal 120/240v appliances, equipment, etc. then a battery bank and inverter is used. The batteries supply the total required DC amps to the inverter for AC loads when demanded, and the generator re-charges the batteries. In grid-tied or utility interactive systems either all or part of the power may be sold to the utility company or used to reduce total utility consumption. Systems which only sell power do not require batteries when configured with a specific "grid-tie" inverter.

Below, we've provided a very simplistic visual observation table which gives you some idea of what various wind speeds will likely do to things like trees, leaves, etc. Naturally, this information isn't considered scientifically reliable, but may encourage you to consider your site for wind power.