Ep 5. Indiana Grain Bin

Building Off the Grid season 12 episode 5 titled "Indiana Grain Bin" showcases a group of Midwest craftsmen embark on a challenging project in La Fontaine, Indiana. They are tasked with transforming a decades-old grain bin into a livable and modern home. With no prior experience in such undertakings, the team faces various challenges on the way to creating a stunning off-the-grid residence.

The team starts by clearing out the old grain bin and removing the existing roof. They then replace it with a new, more robust steel roof to support the solar panels that will provide electricity to the home. The installation of the electrical system proves to be a challenging task. The crew starts by wiring the main electrical panel while ensuring that it is appropriately grounded. Thereafter, they mount a ceiling fan on the roof of the grain bin, which helps maintain a consistent temperature inside the home.

By installing a hybrid heating system, the crew ensures that the homeowners can stay comfortable in their new home regardless of the weather conditions outside. Proper insulation is installed to retain the heat generated by the heating system and prevent moisture and cold from entering the unit.

The exterior walls of the holed grain bin are perforated with small holes that allow sunlight to enter the living spaces and provide natural illumination. The team utlises the existing openings and adds additional glass walls to bring more light and airflow into the living room, dining room, and kitchen.

Aesthetics is not forgotten, as the team crafts custom furniture and cabinetry that fits perfectly in the small yet chic living space. They design and build a beautiful kitchen island, storage cabinets, and shelving that showcase the grain bin's artistry and character. They also add a dining room table that doubles as a workspace, making effective use of space.

One of the challenges faced by the team is the lack of a water source on the property. They decide to install a large water tank in the front yard of the house to collect rainwater. They install a pump, allowing the homeowners to access water from the kitchen and bathroom taps. With this eco-friendly water collection system in place, the homeowners will not have to worry about paying monthly water bills or running out of water during a drought.

Finally, the team creates an outdoor living area by extending a portion of the living space out of the grain bin. They create an outdoor living room with comfortable seating space where the homeowners can relax while enjoying the wonderful Deciduous forests of Indiana.

Building Off the Grid season 12 episode 5 showcases the creativity and resourcefulness of the human spirit to turn an unlikely structure into a beautiful and practical abode. The episode provides inspiration and motivation for people looking to build off-the-grid homes, demonstrating that they can be beautiful, functional, and environmentally responsible.