12 Best Home Wind Turbines (2021 Review)

Are your utility bills rising every month? Wind turbines may be the solution that will blow your mind away if you seeking a more sustainable lifestyle. We reviewed the best home wind turbine options for 2021.

If you just want the best options, here’s a summary of the best home wind turbines we reviewed:

This article will generate the 12 best home wind turbines to help power your next off-the-grid move. Alongside our reviews, you will get a jolt of exciting facts and tips to determine whether these small electric windmills are right for your needs and home. Plus, FAQs included to answer all your basic questions. 

Read on to learn more!

12 Best Home Wind Turbines Reviewed

In the past decades, the world saw a growth momentum of wind-energy consumption. About $25 billion was invested in this renewable resource In 2012. Around $10 billion define the wind-energy sector. By 2050, wind energy can make up one-third of global energy demands. The future is now! 

Best Large Wind Turbine Kit

Automaxx WINDMILL 1500W Wind Turbine Generator Kit

For a relatively high asking price, the Automaxx Windmill 1500W wind turbines do come in various power production models with 400W of power in 12v to 1,500W models in 24V. So, in other words, it makes up for it in value. 

We also like how it comes in an all-in-one kit, and the material used is high-quality polypropylene and glass fiber, along with being fully lightweight in design. The cut-in wind speed is around 5.6 mph, which translates to this turbine being best for areas with moderate wind levels. However, there is a post missing between the base and the turbine itself, and as mentioned, the price is not the cheapest. Overall, Automaxx Windmill is a reputable brand and is known for straightforward turbines.   

Pros:

• High voltage capacity and energy output for a durable performance
• Silent operation, making it ideal for more densely populated areas 
• The built-in MPPT charge controller allows for money-saving opportunities 

Cons:

• For those only able to make a small upfront investment, this turbine is not ideal due to its initially high asking price. 

Best Medium Wind Turbine Kit

Tumo-Int 1000W Wind Turbine Generator Kit with Wind Boosting Controller

At optimal efficiency, the Tumo-Int wind turbine can produce 1050W of power and last up to 90 mph. However, with only an initial wind speed of 5.6 mph, this turbine is ideal for mainly low-wind areas and less intense storms.

For example, an area with a wind speed of less than 8 mph will do. Installation may also be hard to prepare along with the configuration of the provided controller. So, we recommend keeping customer service by your side. 

Overall, the small 3-blade turbine delivers an impressive feat of 1000W and can charge a 48V battery – all at a reasonable price and in smooth silence. 

Pros:

• Heavy-duty bearings to support the shaft and turbine head for a firm hold
• Its ingenious design creates durable opportunities against strong winds 
• Low vibration and noise during operation  

Cons:

• The hefty weight (77 pounds) of this turbine is not ideal for mounting on fragile surfaces, such as the roof of your RV vehicle.

Best High Powered Wind Turbine

Missouri Freedom II Wind Turbine 

2000 watts? That’s a game-changer in this pool of choices. We like the Missouri Freedom II wind turbine for its powerful design, such as its rust-resistance metal components and its 28-rare-earth magnet rotor for an impressive output. Plus, with a claimed guarantee of 50 years of satisfaction, you will not need to retouch its painted coatings often or replace numerous parts. 

However, this turbine is rated for a low-wind-speed. So, it is best to mount this baby in small homes, businesses, and areas of low to moderate levels of wind. The 7 to 9 blades offered can all battle wind of up to 125 miles per hour. In the end, a self-tightening lock holds the whole system in place, including wire tension and lack of cogging. 

Pros:

• Fully hot-dipped galvanized metal components allow for less rusting and less frequent replacements 
• A Freedom PMG rotor that contains twice as much copper for higher and long-lasting power
• Blades infused with carbon fiber for a lifetime-guaranteed use

Cons: 

• Despite its mega power, the turbine has not been perfect for harsh conditions or climates.

Best Budget Option Wind Turbine

YaeTek 400W Wind Generator

Weighing in at around 17.3 pounds, the YaeTek wind turbine is ideal for those living in rural and urban areas. We admire that this little dancer can twirl against a wind speed of 2.5 mph. For example With 400W in power, you can also recharge batteries for your home, whether on the water or land.

However, what could have been better is that this little mill lacks a manufacturer warranty, unlike most other turbines in the market. We further recommend setting up this bad boy on a less windy day because once it takes off, as a result the turbine’s power can be quite impressive. 

Pros: 

• A hybrid system that includes a solar panel for optimal energy generation 
• Convenient battery charging in any homes like boats, gazebos, mobile homes
• Human-friendly design for an easy set-up

Cons:

• There is no warranty to help increase your reliability and trust in the model. 

Best Solar/Wind Combo Power Generation

ECO-WORTHY 580W Combo

Compared to other hot picks reviewed here, we decided to throw in a combo to mix things up a bit. The Eco-Worthy 500W combo consists of both solar and wind power in one kit. With an acceptable cut-in speed of just 5.6 mph, this turbine is suitable for small homes and captures power from two mighty forces all year long – the sun and the wind. 

From 12V 500W to 24V 1200W, we’re looking at a 3-blade wind turbine with a hybrid controller and solar panels holding MC4 connectors. However, it may be off-putting to note that many reviewers have criticized the unclear instructions and the lack of customer support. 

Pros:

• The convenient combo of a turbine paired with solar panels can provide optimal power generation
• Versatile application for small homes, farms, boats, and off-grid sites
• Lightweight in design and low vibration leads to a comfortable user experience

Cons:

• The price of this model may not be the most ideal for some buyers, especially budget-friendly users. 

Runner Up Home Wind Turbine

Pikasola Wind Turbine Generator 400W 24V

With the Pikasola wind turbine generator, we were delighted at its compact shape and lightweight design making it easy to assemble. The wind speed meter comes in handy, allowing you to judge its output versus the wind speed. 

With around 40kWh/month at wind speeds of 13 mph, the full-aluminum turbine with stainless steel fittings captures wind remarkably quiet. We recommend this little one for anyone looking to add a little extra supplemental power to their solar farm.

Pros:

• Ideal for an off-grid lifestyle
• Thorough instructions for an easy assembly
• USA manufacturer for guaranteed quality 

Cons:

• Compared to other home wind turbines, this one does not deliver the greatest power output. 

Best Wind Turbine For RVs

Happybuy Wind Turbine Generator 700W DC 24V

Happybuy is a leading brand in the aerodynamics industry, offering excellent windmills with low to high wind-speed performance. So, it comes as no surprise that this 400W DC 12V turbine by them unleashes a mighty 700W power. We especially like its core feature of an electromagnetic braking system paired with nylon-fiber-infused blades to champion strong winds. 

However, as with all things, we noted only one downside: the unit provides sloppy instructions. Good thing, though, that Youtube tutorials are a thing today! As a huge plus, the 30% carbon-fiber construction makes the windmill highly resistant against the rage of mother nature. 

Pros: 

• Powerful 3phase AC PMG to regulate voltage accurately and make the most of high wind speed
• High-quality carbon-fiber blades for top resistance against harsh winds
• 700W power to do the job

Cons:

• The instruction manual can be developed more clearly for the users, especially the beginners. 

Best Wind Turbine For In Law Suite

SHZOND Wind Generator 400W

Another small mill is the Shzond wind generator 400W hybrid. You cannot miss out on the opportunity to own this small but mighty beast that slays the wind at a rated power of 400W and in 54V. Meanwhile, it operates as a silent ninja. 

Wherever you are in the world, this turbine will complement your mobile home, gazebos, boats, or chalets. Plus, batteries can be charged on the spot. What’s even more, we think efficiency and reliability are both ensured in developing this model due to the CE and RoHS certification, which approves the high-quality design of electric appliances. 

Pros:

• One of the most affordable wind turbines for your home on the market
• CE and RoHs certification to ensure trust and reliability 
• Simple DIY assembly for on any mobile home 

Cons:

• This is a simple and functional model that gets the basic things done, but its performance is not superior compared to other units for the leisure sector. 

Best Budget Option Home Wind Turbine

Pacific Sky Power DIY 12V Charger Wind Turbine Generator II Kit with Fin

Designed for budget-friendly users, such as backpackers and boat-owners, the Pacific Sky Power DIY (do-it-yourself) wind turbine kit is perfect for calling your suitcase its home. While it is not one of the most advanced turbines here equipped for the real dirty work against strong winds, this portable and light windmill is still highly useful.

When you’re living on the road most of the year, for example, you can charge this two-pound baby to any basic electronics. This wind turbine requires at least 12 mph winds to charge a 12V battery. For charging a 12V battery in lighter wind, you could try wiring 2 wind turbines in series.

Pros:

• Portable and lightweight for travelers and camping 
• Acts as an emergency portable backup power generator 
• Kit includes a tail-fin for enhanced performance 

Cons: 

• We think this specific wind turbine will not meet the needs of anyone looking for something more serious or advanced and powerful. 

Best Wind Turbine For Farms

Primus Wind Power Air 40 Wind Turbine Generator

Not to be confused with Optimus Prime from the Transformers, the Primus Air wind turbine packs a mega-punch of 40 kWh in energy per month. We can also say that this premier micro turbine comes close to the alien-machine character’s majestic strength. 

With just 13.4 mph average wind speed and its sleek, long, dark blades, this turbine can rotate all year continuously long without many malfunctions. You can further rely on this lightweight turbine to be reliable and efficient because it is made in the USA like most of our reviewed picks. Additionally, we noted a negative drawback: the price may be imperfect for frugal homeowners.

Pros:

• USA-made and tested to ensure reliability and safety
• Powerful microprocessor technology for making it worth its value 
• Uniquely designed and lightweight for a convenient installation 

Cons:

• This small turbine may be expensive for some budget shoppers.

Best Wind Turbine For Camping

YaeMarine Wind Turbine Generator, 400W 12V Wind Turbine

Not all things should come eloquently designed and packed with fancy features. What matters most is that your home wind turbine does the job. So, we selected the YaeMarine wind turbine for the budget-friendly users looking for something simple and decent. 

With a rating of 400 watts, this turbine can be added to your other collection of generators to power the small house completely. And while the 5-blade makes it not the top performer, it’s still something to appreciate compared to other mills. Plus, there’s the 24 voltage paired with a 2-year warranty.

Pros:

• Nylon-fiber blades promote resistance against UV damages and corrosion
• 400W powerhouse for sufficient energy production
• Ideal in conjunction with other small turbines to power cabins, mobile homes, boats

Cons:

• Its power performance and durability are not groundbreaking compared to other turbines on the market.

Best Extra Large Turbine

Nature Power: 2,000W Wind Turbine

Another powerhouse to battle the natural elements of mother nature occupies a spot on our list. The Nature Power 7071 wind turbine delivers a bang for your buck. Adorned in sleek and black design like a ninja in the air, this 2000W generator fights low to high winds at 28 mph wind speed. The black coating material is a durable cast aluminum built to withstand wind speed of up to 110 mph. 

Whether you’re living near a large body of water or taking your relatives out onto a cottage in the mountain tops, this 3-phase synchronous generator charges a 12V battery, which is enough for at least two days. Albeit, this home mill is expensive and is designed to battle areas with only high wind levels. So, look away if you want something simpler or cheaper. 

Pros:

• Its marine-grade coating guarantees a durable quality 
• Versatile application for both the land and sea
• Smooth and silent operation in the wind 

Cons:

• We do not recommend this turbine for non-windy areas, and the price may not be perfect for all buyers. 

Shopping For Home Wind Turbines 

Wind turbines for your home is a significant and huge investment that goes a long way in saving you money while, ultimately, sustaining the planet’s renewable resources. However, there is a lot of crucial planning involved before spending hundreds of dollars on installing them.

In this section, we outline some of the factors to consider before buying a residential wind turbine. By the end, you should know if home wind turbines are worth the cost.

What Is A Small Home Wind Turbine? 

Small wind turbines are smaller versions of the giant ones you see towering over farm fields for miles, you can say – except they are made for the home. A single and small turbine is meant for individual use in the home, for telecommunications dishes, water pumping, or in desolate areas with little to no grid connection. 

Most of them consist of a horizontal-axis and an upwind machine with two or three blades. Such blades are made from composite material like fiberglass. A hybrid system is possible in most models and in which it is a wind turbine that operates in conjunction with batteries, solar power systems, or fuel systems. Plus, they recharge batteries or serve as backup power.

Depending on the unit, your house, and where it is situated, energy production will vary greatly. The most crucial thing to note is that all wind turbines need consistent, strong winds to operate. There’s a reason wind farms are built out on mountain tops or raised lands. Getting a small wind turbine for the home would make financial sense to own a home in a high-level windy area.

Fun Fact: Wind power is unique because it does not use any water. wind power is predicted to save about 30 trillion bottles of water in the US by 2020

How A Wind Turbine Works

Most would think of a wind turbine as those “tall, spinny things with a wheel-head.” Better stated, wind turbines are electricity generators. Mostly designed to be mounted on a tower, which typically stands 100 feet (30 meters), or more, above ground. 

Starting with the basic principle, wind turbines work because they use the wind to make electricity, whereas a fan uses electricity to make wind. You have a turbine, a rotor component, usually 2 to 4 blades, and a generator. Strong winds turn the turbine’s blades to rotate like a propeller, and the blades are turning around on a rotor. This then automatically spins the connected generator to produce electricity. 

Alternatively, to distribute the electrical energy to multiple homes, the electricity can connect to an electricity grid. The grid is then sold to a utility company for electricity distribution to a town or city. 

Types Of Home Wind Turbine Kits

There are two standard types of residential wind turbine kits out there. Each has distinctive differences.

The Grid Tied Wind System

This type of unit is connected to the national electricity grid, which reduces the amount of utility-supplied electricity for you. This can be quite beneficial because, if your wind turbine happens to deliver lower energy levels, the grid helps make up the difference. 

If excess energy is generated, then it is resold to the utility company. For those who think the energy provided by the utility company is pricey, but their requirements for connecting your turbine to the grid are less in cost, the grid-tied system may be an appropriate choice. 

The Stand-alone Wind System

This second type is the other way around or the off-grid version. What differentiates this version from the previous is that it is used in combination with a solar electric system, which further means that the turbine would need battery packs that will store the electricity. Overall, it makes sense that the stand-alone system type is ideal for those who desire clean energy and a self-sufficient lifestyle. 

Additionally, you should note that some turbines come as complete kits, including an inverter, but most are sold separately. 

Ideal Locations To Install Your Home Wind Turbines

We want to stress that you need a constant strong wind to own a wind turbine of your own. One of the best renewable energy sources to take advantage of is wind energy, we should try not to get caught up in a whirlwind of excitement and unrealistic expectations about wind energy. 

One of the main downsides of sticking to wind energy for your home (later on, you will find the other disadvantages) is that it is completely dependent on wind consistency. Therefore, one of the important factors to consider before potentially wasting your money on wind turbines is considering where you live! Look at this map we found to understand the average wind speeds across the entire US region at 80 meters in height. 

Tip: Looking at the map, those in the green area are highly recommended to NOT buy a wind turbine for their home (unless your home is in a raised area)!

Benefits Of Owning Home Wind Turbines 

There are many benefits going your way for owning a home wind turbine. Some of these significant benefits include:

• Affordable: Wind power is one of the most cost-effective energy solutions out there, costing around 4 to 6 cents per kilowatt-hour. Plus, they are great alternatives for homeowners to lessen or end utility bills entirely. 
• Renewable: If you think about it, the wind is a natural element of the earth. So, taking advantage of its power would mean it is free, the supply is unlimited, and access is granted anywhere in the world. Specifically, you can compare wind power to fossil-fuel power. So, wind power is an entirely renewable form of solar energy. 
• Eco-friendly: It gets even better knowing that the naturally clean wind power prevents waste production and greenhouse gases. Additionally, the more wind power you use, the fewer fossil fuels are consumed, preventing toxic byproducts as created by those fuels from entering the air. 
• Low Blackout Failures: You are more immune to blackouts or electricity failure in your town.
• Tax Incentives:  Depending on your federal government, some encourage citizens to purchase and install their wind turbines by providing them with a tax credit to offset some of the process’s accruing expenses. This is called wind power tax credit, which covers 30% of the cost to buy and install the residential turbines in your primary home , plus any other homes you have. Pretty neat!

Fun Fact: The person known to discover the wind energy theory is Albert Betz (1885-1968), a German physicist and pioneer of wind turbine technology. 

Drawbacks Of Owning Home Wind Turbines

With what seems like such powerful advantages to owning a residential wind turbine, it is hard to believe that there could be any drawbacks. However, as with all things, there are downsides to owning these little mills. They include:

• Small wind turbines require consistent, strong wind, but mother nature is unpredictable sometimes, sometimes granting little to no access to wind on certain days.  
• Initial costs associated with installing a wind turbine can range from $1000 and over. 
• Some turbines make noises that could disrupt your neighbors and lead to disputes. 
• Some zones or areas have legal restrictions against the use of home turbines. 
• The uncovered, spinning blades of your turbine may likely harm or kill birds and insects.
• Lightning may occur and oddly strike on your turbine, damaging it.  

Average Cost Of Home Wind Turbines

The average cost of a small wind turbine for a single home cost around $900 and higher. 

On average, the typical American household consumes around 909kWh per month. If your wind turbines can deliver around 5 kW, you can bring down your bill’s balance to zero. As a result, over the long term, you will save a significant amount of money. Plus, as stated before, there is the benefit of selling back any extra energy you generated to the electric company.  

However, how much you save will depend largely on how much on average your household consumes electricity. As with all great investments, the initial cost of buying and installing new equipment will be expensive. So, we understand that some people cannot afford the upfront costs all at once. What you can do is opt for one or two decent turbines. In this way, you at least lowered your utility bill by half.

Tip: To optimize control over your savings while still sticking to the average household electricity consumption level, we recommend at least having three home turbines, each 2000W. Yes, this will be expensive at first, but likely a one-time payment and worth the investment in the long term.

Average Power Output Of Home Wind Turbines

In reality, depending on your generator’s efficiency and the wind speed where you decide to install your turbine, the actual wattage will vary. 

A unit with a wind speed of 5.5 mph (or more) is considered sufficient for the average homeowner. It also should be able to manage 90 to 100 mph wind speeds before breaking down. Most home wind turbines can produce up to an estimated 100W to 200W. When you look at more pricey units, they often charge 12-24-48V battery banks up to 2000W. 

Additionally, you can calculate the power output of your wind turbine with a special formula.

Tip: You can combine two or more turbines to work together to power an entire small household. Alternatively, if you go off the grid, you can combine solar panels and turbines. Nevertheless, there’s never a need to go overboard. 

Basic Checklist Before Buying Home Wind Turbines

To ensure whether home wind turbines are the best option for you and to ensure you achieve the successful installation of them, we compiled a brief checklist to focus on what you need to consider beforehand.

We also included questions to ask yourself along the way just in case you forget some minor (yet significant) details. Plus, making the checklist more relevant to use. Consider the following:

1. Check your local zoning laws: Does my state or region allow the installation of home wind turbines? Does your government allow but also further offer incentives for doing so?
2. Check your average energy consumption at home: How much power do I (and anyone else) use up each month? What do my utility bills look like on average? If find several turbines for a special deal, how much energy is estimated to generate altogether? In the end, do the numbers add up for me? 
3. Check your area’s wind speed levels (check FAQs for more details): Do I plan on living in the area where I want to install my turbines for years to come? Does my area supply enough consistent strong wind to make sure the turbines work all year long? Does my area encounter “windless months” so I can avoid having a useless investment in the turbines? 
4. Check for legitimate certifications: Is the seller a reputable source? What do the customer reviews say about them overall? Does the model at least have any approval from the Small Wind Certification Council (e.g. seals, stamps, stickers on the packaging)?

Fun Fact: The concept of windmills first developed around 2000 B.C. with the first invented in Persia and China. For the US, it was not until the 1940s that the first modern wind turbine came out (Vermont)!  

Maintenance Considerations For Your Home Wind Turbines 

Depending on how properly you install and maintain your residential wind turbine’s care, it could last up to 20 years or more. On an annual basis, you can consider the following tips on how to take care of your little generator:

• Checking the bolts and electrical connections to ensure they are either tightened or protected
• Inspect the coating of the turbine for any rust or corrosion and the wires for proper tension 
• Checking any tapings to replace
• Replacing the turbine blades after 5 to 10 years, depending on the number of severe weather events over time

In the end, we don’t expect many to be an expert in installing and caring for an electric system. That is why it is handy always to keep the manufacturer/ maintenance guy’s contact or website. 

FAQs Regarding Wind Turbines For Your Home

How can wind power generate electricity at home?

Wind energy is actually a form of solar energy. Starting with the sun’s unevenly heats the earth’s atmosphere or surface, the wind is then created. 

Wind turbines are human-made machines convert the kinetic energy in the wind into clean electricity. Cleverly enough, the wind spins the turbine’s blades, allowing the attached rotor to capture that kinetic energy of the wind, which then converts it into a rotary motion that triggers the generator to produce electricity. 

Who should own a home wind turbine? 

A Home wind turbine is a great solution for someone living in a rural area and do not have access to an electric grid. They are also highly considerable for people living in a suburban area and seeking to reduce their utility bills. So, you do not necessarily have to be educated in environmental studies or fall into the trendy group of eco-conscious advocates. 

How big of a wind turbine do you need to power your house?

First and foremost, it is essential to build an energy budget. From there on, you can determine the right wind turbine size for your home. 

Small wind turbines for residential areas typically range in size from 400 watts to 20 kilowatts, depending on how much electricity you want to generate. For example, if you find a 1.5kW wind turbine, it will fit with a household that needs 300kW hours per month in an area with 14 mph of annual average wind speed.

Can my wind turbine withstand harsh weather?

Unless you live in an area with frequent hurricanes, tornadoes, or heavy storms, your wind turbine should be able to withstand inclement weather. For regions with common rains, most mid-price range models will likely include anti-corrosive features to prevent the turbine from being damaged by water and rust.

Tip: For those living in areas with severe storms, we recommend avoiding wind turbines entirely because they could impose more safety risks.

What is an “urban wind” turbine?

“Urban wind” is a simple home wind turbine in urban or suburban areas. The goal of urban wind is to speed up the energy transition by using small (home) wind turbines. 

What happens when the wind stops blowing?

Of course, it is not a guarantee that an area that is known for consistent wind will have wind every single day. Most days, it will but some days, the air is simply dead. That’s why those living in low-wind areas are recommended to have solar energy as an alternative source to power their homes – not just wind energy. The same goes slightly for high-wind areas, especially in a hot or cold setting when you need the electricity to control your house temperature. 

In either case, the initial set-up of your small wind turbines is crucial in that you must have it properly and carefully set it up according to the instructions provided. Home wind turbine ensures both your generators and batteries actually store energy from both sun and wind because that is what they were designed to do. When the wind stops blowing on a certain day, or for a short period, you will have that saved energy.

How do I know where to install my wind turbine?

For your small wind turbine to properly work, the selected area must maintain a consistent wind speed. Otherwise, the blades will not spin to produce electricity. How you check the area is by measuring the area. 

So, let’s say your wind turbine is a unit with 500W and a wind speed rate of 27 mph. You should then ensure that the installation area shows an average wind speed that is more than 27 mph. 

In another example, if you install a 500W-27mph turbine in an area with an average of 10 to 12 mph of wind speeds, then you will probably generate electricity that is only around 100W of power. 

Can I build my own wind turbine at home?

It isn’t hard to build your own wind turbine for your home. However, you will need to buy supplies which will add up to roughly 3/4 of the cost of a wind turbine kit. It will also require additional power tools and time to complete the project. The wind turbine kits are better suited for most homes.

Key Takeaways

There we have it! We hope loved our reviews of the 12 best home wind turbines out there. Also, by now, you are more likely to make a better-informed decision on whether ‘cutting cords’ with your electric company and running off to lead a more independent, self-sustaining life is right for you. 

Our main key takeaway is that a hybrid system (solar panels with multiple high-quality small wind turbines) is the most reliable for those dedicated to living off-the-grid. Utilizing home wind turbine, rather than a single system, gives your home optimal energy production power. 

Also, as stated several times, but that we cannot stress enough, the main downside would be the initial high costs of this kind of investment. Yet, with fewer repairs or replacements over time, you will save tremendously in the long run.