Our property is off the grid in a lot of ways. We have a well, a septic system, and an underground propane tank.
Unfortunately, we’re vulnerable to the loss of one critical service…
The well is amazing. It provides crystal clear Rocky Mountain spring water to our house, and our yard.
The sprinkler system that keeps our lawn green, and our trees getting taller, is hooked directly into the well.
Having a septic tank with a leach field means we don’t have to be hooked up to the city sewer system, not that they would come out this far anyway.
A full, five hundred gallon underground propane tank, provides more then enough heating energy to make it through the insanely cold Rocky Mountain winters. And, the fact that it’s owned, not rented, means we can shop around for the best price.
Electricity is provided to us via underground cables, as is our phone and internet service. It’s great, no utility lines to spoil our view of the Tetons!
Unfortunately, we are totally blindsided when the power goes off!
The well needs electricity to pump the water to us. Without water, we have no showers, drinking water, sprinkler, or septic system.
The propane heats the house with a Rinnai heater and a gas fireplace, both out of service without power.
Obviously the kitchen, refrigerator, and stove are down…
So much for being off the grid :-)