Are you ready to live off-the-grid?

The more high-tech our society is becoming, the more people wish they could live in a safe and remote location, far away from the everyday click-and-buy apps. Ultimately, there is something deeply appealing about leading an off-the-grid lifestyle. For a start, you don’t need to worry about finding car space in the street, which is a massive improvement if you’re used to driving around the block a few time before being able to park! However, don’t assume that off-the-grid properties can bring you all the comfort and peace you need without a cost. Life outside of organized urban centers is not as sweet and smooth as it might seem. You need to know which obstacles you might face if you want to make your remote lifestyle a reality.

The freedom of off-the-grid life

#1. Your appliances might not last as long as you think

One of the main reasons for moving into an independent house is to cut down on expenses. You don’t want to pay high rents, or you’re sick of struggling to keep your grocery shopping within your budget. Going off-the-grid can help you to address some of the financial issues. However, you need to be clear about one thing; you have to be careful about your choice of appliances. In a typical home, selecting the best solution is about picking energy-saving devices. But off-the-grid, the best solution is different. You need appliances that can work on low water pressure, and that can also survive mineral- and dirt-heavy water. Indeed, as you often need to organize your water management system, you’re unlikely to get soft water at home.

#2. You’re more vulnerable to the elements

There’s absolutely no comparison between a roof in a residential area and the roof of your off-the-grid property. In a remote location, you are more exposed to potentially harmful elements, such as falling trees or rocks. As a result, roof repairs and maintenance is likely to be a regular occurrence. You can reduce damages by working with professionals such as SCI Roofing & Construction to ensure that your property is protected by the best material and structure. All external structure needs to be monitored closely.

#3. There’s no such thing as plug and go

When you want to make your bedroom cozier, all you need to do is to plug a cute bed lamp or a soothing diffuser to change the ambiance in the room. When you live outside of urban bonds, there’s no more easy plug solution. You need to generate your own electricity, and, consequently, you are more careful about the appliances and gadgets you use at home. Most homeowners choose a combination of solar panels, wind turbines and a generator to get through all situations.

#4. You need to know how to find, prepare and store your food

Admittedly, living off-the-grid doesn’t mean you can’t buy your food from the shop. But you need to be ready for every eventuality, and that includes being able to survive when you can’t go to the shop. Fishing and hunting are necessary skills if you intend to eat meat. You also need to know how to grow vegetables, and more importantly, how to preserve your food.

Canned food

The bottom line is that despite the appeal, going off-the-grid is not for everyone. As a homeowner, you have to understand the implications and consequences of living far away from civilization. Ask yourself if you’re ready to give up on your urban comfort before taking any life-changing decision!

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