Living far from the beaten path can have real advantages, but off-grid homes are also notoriously tricky to maintain. Depending on where you live, dealing with a plumbing issue or problems that could impact your home’s water supply may not be as simple as simply scheduling a service appointment. Preventative maintenance can be an issue of paramount importance when living off the grid.
Electricity
Keeping a home-solar installation or gas-powered generator in good working condition is not a concern that you should leave to chance. A loss of electrical power can lead to no end of inconveniences and can even be dangerous during extreme weather conditions. From serving your generator to inspecting your solar panels at the start of the season, routine maintenance efforts could end up making a world of difference.
Plumbing
After dealing with the electrical situation, plumbing should be your next priority. Off-grid homes that do not have access to a municipal water supply should have the septic tank, water filtration systems, or rain-water reclamation setup inspected and serviced at regular intervals. Even trying to make do without grey water can cause issues. Homes without working plumbing or clean drinking water can create even more serious problems.
HVAC and Climate Control
From a simple wood-burning stove to the latest in smart climate-control systems, your HVAC setup is another issue that may need to be addressed. Waiting until the first snowstorm of the year to discover there’s a problem with your heater or furnace can put you in a very tight spot. Regular maintenance ensures more dependable operation for your AC unit, furnace or other heating and cooling appliances.
The Roof
Leaks caused by aging materials or storm damage could leave you without a roof over your head. Once damaged, roof installations can begin to degrade very quickly. Only periodic inspections and professional assessments are the only way to spot a potential problem with your roof before it grows into a major problem. Arranging an inspection following a hailstorm is also a wise precaution as your homeowner’s insurance policy may cover the cost of repairs.
Maintenance and upkeep are very important concerns for rural homeowners and those living off the grid. Routine service can often be arranged more easily and with less cost than would be needed to deal with a problem after the fact. From your home’s foundation to its roof, keeping your property well maintained can allow you to avoid countless problems and potential issues.
