More households are turning to renewable energy. There are many benefits, including reducing your carbon footprint and lowering utility bills. However, some people overlook how valuable the self-reliance created by home wind and solar systems can be. This is especially prominent in emergencies, such as hurricanes, winter storms, flooding and grid failures. If you are thinking about adding an alternative power source to your home, be sure to consider these five ways that solar power can help in an emergency.

1. You Can Run Major Appliances

If you live in an area where power lines are run overhead, then you probably know how high winds, ice or fallen trees can directly affect the power supply. Having a solar power system in your house takes that concern off of your plate. You won't have to worry about stocking up on non-perishable foods and water to wait out power outages in your home that is operating independently of the electricity grid. You can cook, take hot showers and keep food cold and safe in the refrigerator while others scramble to stay comfortable.

2. Solar Keeps the Lights On

A whole-home solar system means you won't have to worry about eating in the dark, either. A solar battery unit stores electricity generated during daylight hours so you can draw on it when it gets dark outside. It is key to keeping everyone safe and comfortable during an emergency situation.

3. It Can Power Medical Equipment

Several key types of durable medical equipment rely on electricity to operate. Anyone who uses a dialysis machine or requires supplemental oxygen already knows how dangerous a power outage can be. While utility companies often keep track of households with medical needs and prioritize them for service restoration, even a short outage can have serious consequences. In some areas, emergency crews will transport equipment-dependent individuals to emergency shelters or hospitals. That can be a major inconvenience and can also cause hardships for family members or pets. Instead of worrying about how you can get to help, rely on clean and reliable solar power to keep your medical equipment running in an emergency.

4. You Won't Have To Deal With a Generator

Generators are great in a pinch. Smaller units let you operate a few devices or alternate a single appliance at a time. Larger ones can run multiple appliances or even the whole house. However, these are very expensive back-up options that require an outside fuel source. That means you will need to keep a supply of diesel or gas on hand just in case you need it. If the emergency lasts for an extended period of time, you may need more generator fuel. As past disasters have shown, that can be difficult, if not impossible, due to supply shortages.

5. Your HVAC System Will Still Operate

You rely on your house's HVAC system to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. However, when the power goes out, it may not be able to operate fully. For example, even if you have a gas- or oil-powered system, it may require electricity to run fans and pumps. Yet, with the right solar panel system, you will be able to keep the system running no matter what the weather outside does. This is much more preferable to some of the alternative methods people use to heat their homes when winter weather strikes. Using candles, propane heaters and barbecues can all lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. They are also major fire hazards. Avoid those potential pitfalls by running your home's existing HVAC system with solar power.

Home solar systems have benefits that go far beyond helping the environment. By providing continuous power to operate appliances, medical equipment and HVAC systems, they are also a helpful tool in emergencies.