One thing we've learned in 15 years of off-grid living is to dole out what we have gathered. In terms of watt-hours, small appliances like a blender, toaster, even my electric grinder, chop saw, table saw, and my wife's hair dryer are doable. We use the microwave every day. Good management of a power source is the same as good management of a food source, water source, or money. Mismanagement results in going without for a time. Sawing too much lumber this afternoon may result in no window fan tonight. But, unlike money, acquiring and storing energy requires only a little active participation on our part (firewood excepted).

— comment by GHung