Weather the Storm: Products
to Help Protect Your Home

Surge Protectors

  • Surge protectors are devices designed to protect electrical equipment from voltage spikes, commonly known as surges. These surges can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the electrical grid. Surge protectors work by diverting excess voltage away from connected devices, helping to prevent damage.

  • Types of Surge Protectors: There are different types of surge protectors, including power strips with surge protection, wall-mounted surge protectors, and whole-house surge protectors that protect the entire electrical system.

    Joule Rating: This indicates the energy absorption capacity of the surge protector. A higher joule rating means better protection. Look for surge protectors with at least 1,000 joules for basic protection, and higher ratings for more sensitive or expensive equipment.

    Clamping Voltage: This is the voltage level at which the surge protector will start to divert excess voltage. A lower clamping voltage means better protection, as it will react to surges sooner. Look for a clamping voltage of 330V or lower for optimal protection.

    Response Time: This refers to how quickly the surge protector can react to a surge. A faster response time means better protection for your devices. Look for surge protectors with a response time of less than 1 nanosecond.

    Number of Outlets: Consider how many devices you need to protect. Surge protectors come with various outlet configurations, so choose one that fits your needs.

  • Wall-mounted and power strip surge protectors can range between $25-$70.

    Whole house surge protectors can range from $50 -$500 depending on the brand and model.

  • The PEI Home Renovation Program provides financial assistance to qualifying Islanders to help cover the cost of eligible renovations to the structure, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems of the home.

Storm Shutters

  • Storm shutters are protective barriers designed to shield windows and doors from the high winds and flying debris associated with hurricanes and severe storms.

    During a hurricane, strong winds create high pressure on the outside of the house. If a window is compromised (e.g., has a hole), it disrupts the pressure balance between the inside and outside of the home.

    The sudden change in pressure can cause structural components, such as roofs and walls, to fail. If the pressure inside the house drops significantly, it can lead to the roof being lifted off or walls collapsing.

  • Material: Look for durable materials such as aluminum, steel, or high-impact polycarbonate. These materials can withstand high winds and flying debris.

    Certification: Ensure the shutters meet local building codes and have been tested for hurricane resistance.

    Installation: Check whether the shutters require professional installation or if they can be installed by a homeowner. Some systems may need specific mounting hardware.

  • Prices can vary significantly based on the type, material, and size of the shutters. Consider your budget and the level of protection you need.

  • The PEI Home Renovation Program provides financial assistance to qualifying Islanders to help cover the cost of eligible renovations to the structure, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems of the home.

Hurricane Straps

  • These are metal connectors that help tie together different parts of a building, such as the roof to the walls and the walls to the foundation.

    They are typically made of galvanized steel to resist corrosion and are available in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different construction needs.

  • Hurricane Tie Straps: These are used to connect roof trusses or rafters to the top plate of the walls.

    Hurricane Clips: Similar to straps, these are used to connect roof framing to wall framing. They are often used in conjunction with straps for added strength.

    Certification: Looks for products that are certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and approved by the provincial and National building code (NBC).

    Materials: Look for straps and anchors made from galvanized steel or stainless steel to ensure durability and resistance to corrosion. Check the load capacity of the straps and anchors to ensure they meet local building codes and can withstand the expected wind loads in your area.

  • Can cost anywhere from $1.50-$4 per strap

  • No rebates available

Hurricane Anchors

  • These are devices used to secure the structure to its foundation. They can be embedded in concrete or attached to wooden beams and are designed to resist uplift and lateral forces caused by strong winds.

  • Foundation Anchors are used to secure the bottom of the walls to the foundation. They can include anchor bolts which embed into the concrete foundation and hold-downs that are used to resist uplift forces.

    Shear Wall Connectors are used to connect shear walls to the foundation and are critical for lateral stability.

    Certification: Looks for products that are certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and approved by the provincial and National building code (NBC).

    Materials: Look for straps and anchors made from galvanized steel or stainless steel to ensure durability and resistance to corrosion. Check the load capacity of the straps and anchors to ensure they meet local building codes and can withstand the expected wind loads in your area.

  • Hurricane anchors cost anywhere from $1-$3 per anchor (not including shipping shipping).

  • No rebates available.

Back-Up Generator

  • A backup generator can provide electrical power during a power outage. It can be used to power essential appliances and systems, ensuring that critical functions continue uninterrupted.

    Backup generators can be powered by various fuel sources, including gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas.

  • Portable Generators are smaller, mobile units that can be easily transported. They are typically powered by gasoline and are suitable for powering a few essential appliances or tools during an outage. They are more affordable and versatile than other options and are easy to store. They have a limited power output and require manual setup.

    Inverter Generators: This is a type of portable generator that produces cleaner power, making it suitable for sensitive electronics like computers and smartphones. They are quieter and more fuel-efficient. They provide stable power however they may have lower power output compared to traditional portable generators.

    Standby Generators: These are permanently installed systems that automatically turn on during a power outage. They are usually powered by natural gas or propane and can power an entire home. They have a higher power output and can run for extended periods. They have a higher initial cost and require a professional to install.

    Solar Generators: These use solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity and store it in batteries. They are eco-friendly and can be used for off-grid applications. These are quiet and require little maintenance. They have limited power output that is dependent on sunlight availability.

    What to consider when buying a backup generator

    Power Output: Determine the wattage you need to power essential appliances. Look for generators with a starting wattage (for appliances with motors) and running wattage (for continuous use).

    Fuel Type:

    Consider the availability and cost of fuel in your area. Gasoline is common for portable generators, while natural gas or propane is often used for standby generators.

    Runtime: Check how long the generator can run on a full tank of fuel. Longer runtimes are preferable for extended outages.

    Noise Level: Look for generators with lower decibel ratings if noise is a concern, especially for residential areas.

    Portability: For portable generators, consider weight, size, and features like wheels and handles for easy transport.

    Safety Features: Look for features like automatic shut-off, low-oil shutdown, and circuit breakers to protect against overloads.

  • Portable Generators can cost between $800-$3000 depending on brand and size.

    Standby Generators can cost between $5000 and $7000.

    Solar Generators can cost $1000-$4000.

    Inverter Generators can be anywhere between $400 - $1500

  • No available rebates were found.