Recommended Equipment and Sources:
Online Update — May 5, 2011
Copyright notice This section of the book is to update the hard copy for those who have purchased The Secure Home. Visitors to this site are free to view the material, but should not copy it unless they have purchased the book. You're on your honor, as I have no way of enforcing this. Hopefully, through this sample you will realize how valuable the 700 page book is.
This section of the book should be the most helpful. Finding the actual products and resources to build a home is often difficult. I have not included many conventional products for building here, but rather have concentrated on those less conventional items that I have commented about during the text. I have used many of the products mentioned here. However, there are many items that I have not had personal experience with. I have attempted to judge these within the limitations of written claims, but you should use your own judgment as well in evaluating their suitability to your needs. I make no guarantees about the performance or reliability of these products or services. Surely, there are other similar products to the ones I have mentioned that may be available and yet unknown to me. Because they are not mentioned does not mean that they are not acceptable. If they follow the general criteria given, feel free to consider them. If I have time, I can try to check out a product of interest to you, if you will provide me some relevant sources or descriptive information. Any feedback you have, negative or positive, about any of these products will be appreciated.
This page also provides the source information for those who have the booklet 10 Packs for Survival. If you find errors here or see web addresses (URL) that do not function, please inform me by Email at joels@joelskousen.com.
I'd also like to recommend a new survival guide put out by Craig Nicholson. It is called The One Stop Survival Preparedness Guide. Get it here: www.one-stop-survival-guide.com.
PRODUCT SUPPLIERS
Here is a list of suppliers who carry a variety of items mentioned in this list. To save space, I will only mention their name as a source within the list, instead of giving out their address and telephone numbers each time they are mentioned. Check here for contact information if it isn't listed in the body of the list. In most cases I will try and give an Internet website URL (URL means an Internet address, usually preceded by a www). Going to a company website will allow you to view the product and read important information. This will save you much time and effort.
ABRAHAM SOLAR EQUIPMENT: This is my top recommended source for all your solar and alternate energy products. Mick has low prices and he knows all the equipment personally, including how to install it. Above everything, I can personally vouch for Mick Abraham's honesty and integrity. This is a source you can completely trust. Order line: 1-800-222-7242, Consultation (970) 731-4675; address: 124 Creekside Place, Pagosa Springs, Co. 81147. Website: www.abrahamsolar.com
BE SELF RELIANT.COM: This is company with a lot of practical experience in designing and installing self-sufficient and multi-fuel systems within homes. They are based out of Idaho and are quickly developing into a comprehensive one-stop resource for self-sufficiency products and information. This includes: alternative energy, heating, home production, self-reliant skills development, consulting, and installation. They have developed a unique home heating boiler system that uses any available fuel, simply by changing out the burner. It also uses coal and wood. I don't know of any other system that matches this one. All of their systems come with extensive "How To" documentation for the do-it-yourselfer. Phone: (208) 624-3135 or (888) 624-0040 website: www.beselfreliant.com Email: info@beselfreliant.com
SHELF RELIANT: New and Competitive Utah-based full-service preparedness products. Website www.shelfreliance.com/ : contact numbers: 1-877-743-5373 Customer order line. Address: 810 North 2800 West Lindon, Utah 84042. They also have a Canadian outlet: email: info@incaseof.ca
PROVIDENT LIVING: Excellent online shopping for 72 hour kits and specialty preparedness equipment. They also sell a full range of storage foods. Website: http://www.providentlivingcenter.com/
MAJOR SURPLUS AND SURVIVAL: Biggest of the California survival food and products stores. Website URL: http://www.majorsurplusnsurvival.com / . Address: 435 W. Alondra Blvd.; Gardena, Ca 90248 Tel: (800)441-8855 or (310)324-8855 email: sales@MajorSurplusNSurvival.com
NITRO-PAK: Carries a full line of survival foods and products. Website: http://www.nitro-pak.com /
WALTON FEED: Largest of the survival food suppliers. Website: http://waltonfeed.com/ Location: 135 North 10th (PO Box 307) Montpelier ID 83254 Phone: 800-847-0465
LEHMAN'S CATALOG: The largest of the self-sufficient/back-to-the-land suppliers. Website: www.lehmans.com . Address: Lehman's Non-Electric Catalog Listing ID 575. Phone: 1-877 438-5346 Email: info@lehmans.com Mail: Lehman's, 289 Kurzen Road North Dalton, Ohio 44618
REAL GOODS: California and Colorado outlets for full range of back-to-the-land and self-sufficiency products. Website: http://www.gaiam.com/realgoods/default.htm/
AMATEUR ELECTRONIC SUPPLY (AES): Biggest of the mail order Ham radio and antenna stores. Website: http://www.aesham.com / Order their catalog: 1-800-558-0411.
HAM RADIO OUTLET: 1-800-644-4476 (east) or 1-800-854-6046 (west). Major competitor or AES. Website: www.hamradio.com/ Order their catalog 1-800-444-0047
RADIO SHACK: website www.radioshack.com . Nationwide electronics parts, radios, telephones, and security systems. Order line: 1-800-843-7422 (get a catalog at local store or see it online).
WW GRAINGER: Nationwide wholesalers of almost every type of equipment. You must have some type of business in order to establish a wholesale account with them, but it is worth it. Check their website for the warehouse nearest you: www.grainger.com .
NORTHERN TOOL AND EQUIPMENT: Major discount mail-order catalog company for generators and major tools and equipment. Website: http://www.northerntool.com / or 1-800-221-0516
HOME IMPROVEMENT STORES TO PURCHASE ITEMS AT A DISCOUNT
COSTCO WHOLESALE: See website for location of stores nearest you: www.costco.com . They are in most states East and West (but only a few in the Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Kansas). Chain discount bulk supplies of household products and services. Very high quality and cheap prices.
SAM'S CLUB (WALMART CHAIN): Nationwide chain carrying bulk supplies at discount prices.
HOME DEPOT: Largest national home improvement store chain. Website URL: www.homedepot.com .
LOWES: Nationwide home improvement discount store; second largest in the nation.They are better than Home Depot for specialty tools and hardware. Website: www.lowes.com
LISTINGS
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS
International Ground Source Heat Pump Association: http://www.igshpa.okstate.edu / Has a listing of many approved installers.
WaterFurnace International, Inc. 9000 Conservation Way, Fort Wayne, IN 46809 USA
Website: http://www.waterfurnace.com Tel: 800-436-7283.
PLASTIC LUMBER DECKING Now available all all home building stores.
STEEL DECKING FOR FORMING UP SHELTER CEILINGS: Many brands of steel decking are available at local steel suppliers in most large cities. Deal locally to avoid shipping costs.
FormDeck Comes 36" wide in variety of lengths. Contact Structures of USA, P.O. Box 639 Johnstown, PA 15907 Tel: 814-536-8371 URL: http://www.structuresofusa.com /
SHATTERPROOF WINDOWS AND SKYLIGHTS
Roto Frank (German made) high strength skylights. Website: www.rotohardware.com/ Available in US at skylight distributors.
Andersen Windows makes a triple laminate glass with polymer layers in between. These windows are intrusion-proof, and will not scratch like Shattergard film. This is the glass system they use on their high strength (hurricane-proof) skylites. You can order this glass in their regular window line as well. Cost is about 30% higher than standard glass/wood windows. Andersen Windows (available at window suppliers everywhere).
STAIR-STEPPED MODULAR WINDOW WELL (for fire escape)
Scapewell by The Bilco Company: URL: www.bilco.com. The Bilco Company, P.O. Box 1203, New Haven, Connecticut 06505 Tel: 203-934-6363.
INSULATING WINDOW FILMS/INSULATION
Gila Films have a full range of energy saving films to apply to windows. Website: http://www.gilafilms.com /
QUILTED DECORATIVE INSULATING CURTAINS FOR SOLAR WINDOWS
See the Website of 1WindowQuilts.com: http://www.1windowquilts.com/ They sell a rolling shutter type installation that is easy to install.
FOIL INSULATION
One of the latest innovations is bubble Poly blankets with foil on front and back. It's great for molding into window jambs or stapling to attic rafters, or cover existing attic insulation to reflect summer heat and keep winter heat inside. Website: http://www.reflectixinc.com/ But it is sold in stores everywhere no--even on Amazon.com.
SOUND INSULATION
Insul-Tek and O.E.M. Sound Deadener, self adhesive automotive stype sound-proofing. This is very compact, effective material. Call Juliano's to order. Orders: 800-300-1932 Technical Assistance: 860-872-1932. Insul-Tek 1/4" thick core of polyethylene foam with aluminum foil bonded to both sides. Will not absorb moisture. Reduces noise level by 40%. Website: http://www.julianos.com/insultek.html/
SONEX Professional quality deep finger foam for shooting ranges. Ilbruck Inc, 3800 Washington Ave North Minneapolis, Mn 55412. Tel (612) 521-3555. website: http://www.illbruck-sonex.com /
ADD-ON PROTECTIVE FILMS
Shattergard Protective Film (unbreakable backing to standard glass). Itcan be applied to existing house and car windows. Makes windows bullet-proof to small caliber (.22) weapons and makes windows inpenetrable to intruders. www.shattergard.com .
FIREPROOF SHEETROCK
In the 1980's a woman invented real fireproof plaster that was vastly superior to type XX sheetrock (which merely sloughs off during a fire. The product is called GEOBOND, and comes in panels as well as a stucco-like exterior coating. It can be used in combination with many other materials. Website: www.geobond.net (inactive site) This is a truly amazing family of products, but it looks like it was not a commercial success and may not be available now.
FIREPROOF PLYWOOD
Plycem. This is a recycled material which has higher densities than all other sheathings. It is marketed by Castleblock P.O. Box 1893, Ventura, CA USA 93002 Tel: 800-672-7872 Website: http://www.castleblock.com/
STRUCTURAL BUILDING PANELS
R-Control Structural Building Panels. factory-made wall systems that replace wall framing. Also R-Control Speclam (insulation foam attached to particle board) AFM Corp24000 West Highway 7, P.O. Box 246 Excelsior, MN 55331 Tel: 1-800-255-0176. (612) 474-0809 or 1-800-255-0176 Fax: 612-474-2074. Website: http://www.afmcorp-epsfoam.com/
EIFS (EXTERIOR INSULATED FINISH SYSTEMS)
Exterior insulated finish systems (EIFS) consist of synthetic stucco applied over insulation board, which is then installed over sheathing. These systems have been used commercially for years, but they received some bad press recently when homeowners complained that these systems were failing. Moisture penetrated the wall and the sheathing and structural members rotted. While manufacturers, contractors, and homeowners swap complaints, drainable siding is entering the picture. Manufacturers say that this system allows moisture that gets behind the stucco to drain harmlessly to the outside.
Dryvit: website: dryvit.com. Tel: 800-556-7752. Dryvit Systems, Inc. One Energy Way, P.O. Box 1014 West Warwick, RI 02893.
Pleko See website at www.pleko.com/ (Dryvit substitute; more competitive in price.)
CHEAPER ALTERNATIVE TO EIFS
The QUIKRETE® Hardcoat Stucco System provides builders and contractors with unparalleled durability and moisture protection that is lacking in Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). The Hardcoat Stucco System is comprised of QUIKRETE Liquid Stucco decorative coating over a base coat of QUIKRETE Fiberglass-Reinforced Stucco. Unlike EIFS, where water may become trapped between a synthetic finish coat and the interior drywall, Fiberglass-Reinforced Stucco acts as a drainage medium. If water penetrates the top coat of Liquid Stucco, it will migrate down the base coat and out through a flashing at the concrete footing. The Hardcoat Stucco System combines the design versatility and energy efficiency of EIFS with the durability and water drainage benefits of cement-based systems. Fiberglass-Reinforced Stucco is reinforced with alkali-resistant glass fibers. It provides a high impact, crack-resistant shell and can be trowel or spray-applied at a 3/8-inch thickness using wire mesh over insulation board or sheathing. Fiberglass-Reinforced Stucco also provides the ideal base for the Liquid Stucco decorative coating, which is a moisture-resistant color and texture coating designed for use over concrete and stucco surfaces. This ready-to-use and trowel-applied product is a 100 percent acrylic co-polymer-based coating. It is available in swirl, coarse sand, and fine sand textures and can be pigmented to any desired color, thus offering unlimited design options. This system can also be used over the concrete stack-block method. URL: www.quikrete.com .
ELECTRICAL, MISC
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). Installing a GFCI outlet for your washing machine for shock protection is worthwhile. However, some GFCIs might trip every time the motor is activated. To prevent this type of nuisance tripping, the Leviton Manufacturing Co. indicated that you should get the Hospital Grade GFCI outlet rather than the regular commercial grade. The catalog number of this part is 6598-HG, and it's available at commercial electrical supply stores.
GREENHOUSE MANUFACTURERS AND COMPONENTS
Conley's Mfg. & Sales 4344 E. Mission Blvd., Montclair, CA 91763 Tel: 909-627-0981 URL: www.conley.com (a commercial greenhouse manufacturer. Will send components to you as well as twinwall glazing at wholesale rates).
National Greenhouse a division of Nexus Corporation 10983 Leroy Drive Northglenn, CO 80233 Tel: 303-457-9199 URL: www.nationalgreenhouse.com/ Nexus is a commercial greenhouse manufacturer who has created the National Greenhouse division to focus specifically on low-cost residential greenhouse solutions. Will sell components to you as well as twinwall glazing at wholesale rates).
PLASTIC GREENHOUSE FILM
Armin Plastics Corp. 18901 East Railroad Street City of Industry, CA 91748 Tel: 800-654-8119 URL: www.armin.com/ (supplies a full range of single layer plastic, UV protected greenhouse coverings - suitable for warmer climates.
STRUCTURAL METAL COMPONENTS (aluminum square tubing, round tubing etc)
Allied Tube & Conduit 16100 S. Lathrop Ave. Harvey, IL 60426 Tel: 800-882-5543 URL: www.alliedsteel.com/ . Also available at steel/metal supply houses in all major cities.
DEHUMIDIFYING AIR TO AIR HEAT EXCHANGERS
HEAT WHEELS by XeteX, Inc. 3530 E. 28th St.. Minneapolis, MN 55406 Tel: (888) 899-9991 Toll Free. (These unique spinning wheels have water absorbing media on the blades which transfers humidity from incoming fresh air to the outgoing stream of exhaust air.)
WATERPROOFING MATERIALS FOR BASEMENTS, UNDERGROUND HOMES
FIXING BASEMENT CRACKS
Most use hydraulic cement (rigid). For a better job, fill the crack on the inside using a tough, but flexible professional-grade sealant such as SIKAFLEX 1A. Prepare the crack according to the manufacturer's instructions, then coat it with Sikaflex primer 429 and apply the Sikaflex-1a. Finish up by covering the repair with SikaTop Seal 107, a polymer-modified, cement-based coating. A 10.3-ounce cartridge of Sikaflex-1a costs about $5, a pint of primer about $12.50 and the SikaTop Seal about $40. Bear in mind that these products are not sold at home centers or hardware stores. They are sold through construction supply houses, some of which are reluctant to sell less than case-size quantities to a homeowner. So the prices of individual cartridges or cans may vary from what we show here. For more information, contact SIKA CORP. 201 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst, NJ 07071; 800-933-7452.
WATERPROOFING WALLS, UNDERGROUND ROOFS:
Black Hills Bentonite Box 9, Mills, Wyoming 82644 URL www.bhbentonite.com Email: bhbentonite@doccee.com. You can also find bentonite pellets at almost any well drilling outfit.
Paraseal (HDPE) Waterproofing Membrane (from W.R. Grace Co, and national firm. Local construction firms can get this product). Paraseal is a dual combination of two of the most effective waterproofing materials, high density polyethylene (HDPE) and bentonite clay, laminated together to form a tough, single sheet membrane. It is easily installed and typically applied on backfilled wall conditions, under floors, decks, or as a pond liner. The Paraseal dual membrane system is also available in a lagging grade, Paraseal LG, which is designed for blindside installations or where shotcrete is to be blown directly into the face of the membrane.
Bituthene Heavy duty waterproof membranes that can literally surround the outside of a basement (even under slabs and footings) to make a basement waterproof in a high water table area. Bituthene 1000x by W.R. Grace Co. (available through local concrete contractors).
Vulkem 201/222 are also ideal for waterproofing foundation walls. By Tremco Incorporated 3735 Green Rd., Beachwood, OH 44122 Tel: 216-292-5000 or 800-321-7906.
Underground roofs: Apply 30 or 45 mil EPDM rubber pond liner material over Polyurathane foam sprayed on insulation. Pond liners widely available at rural farm stores.
WATERPROOFING FOR DECKS
Vulkem #350/351 Pedestrian Deck Coating System. Tremco Incorporated 3735 Green Rd. Beachwood, OH 44122 Tel: 216-292-5000 or 800-321-7906.
CUPOLAS (special decorative vent housings that go on top of traditional styled roofs and barns)
Stephenson Cupolas and Weathervanes. Nashvilled Sash and Door, Tel: (615) 254-1371
Edon Fiberglass Cupolas. 1-800-255-0176, URL www.edon.com/ (These are indestructable vents and never need maintenance).
CONSTRUCTION TYPES: ALTERNATIVE
INFORMATION ON CONCRETE HOMES
PRECAST CONCRETE
Thermomass Residential Building Systems. (The best residential system in the world - uses a thermal sandwich of foam in between two concrete precast surfaces. Has heat mass characteristics, rodents cannot get into the foam layer, bullet-proof, and the best sound-proofing available) 1999 Highview Rd. Coralville, IA 52241 Tel: (319) 351-4232 Fax (319) 351-0993 Website: www.t-mass.com .
Kistner Concrete Products, Inc. (Prefab security buildings, precast basement foundation systems) They also have very innovative retaining wall systems with planting areas. 8713 Read Road East Pembroke, NY 14056 Tel: 716-762-8216 Fax: 716-762-8315 Website: www.kistner.com .
Tierra Concrete Homes P.O. Box 1924, Pueblo, CO Tel: 719-947-3040 Fax: 719-947-3050. Website: http://www.tierraconcretehomes.com/service.html/
Oldcastle Precast Custom precast water-proof concrete tanks. Can combine these to make drop-in-the-ground shelter systems. Contact: Oldcastle Products, 2820 A Street, SE Auburn, WA 98071-0608 Tel: 253-833-2777 Fax: 253-939-9126 or 888-232-6274. Website: www.oldcastle-precast.com/ They have local manufacturers all over the USA.
PRECAST CONCRETE SLABS (AIR CORE CONCRETE)
For use as flooring systems or roofing systems. Duct heat or cooling air into the floor tubes. FLEXICORE brand slabs are available in all states. Check with commercial concrete contractors in every major city. Example: http://www.flexicoreoftexas.com/
THERMAL MASS CONCRETE BLOCK CONSTRUCTION
The Natural Home Source: These designers and builders have the most experience in heat mass - passive solar homes. Their system is applicable to most areas of the country, but especially the West. I don't agree with all their techniques or their pricing commissions, but you can learn a lot from their information and implement what you want on your own. They cover waste treatment systems, earth sheltered homes and buildings, solar air heating systems, composting system components, indoor gardening/attached greenhouses. Silverthorne, CO 80498 Tel: 970-262-6727 Website: http://www.thenaturalhome.com/ .
DOME UNDERGROUND HOMES
All of the following companies have been in business over 20 years, so they know what they are doing.
Nest Egg Homes (an underground system using concrete dome or tunnel type structures) Formworks Building, Inc. P.O. Box 1509, Durango, CO 81302 Tel: 970-247-2100 URL: www.formworksbuilding.com.
The Terra-Dome Corp. Underground or bermed buildings. They have tremendous experience in the field. http://www.terra-dome.com/ Hdq: 8908 S. Shrout Rd. Grain Valley, MO 64029 Tel: 1-800.481.3663 toll-free
Davis Caves Construction, Inc. P.O. Box 69, Armington, IL 61721 Website: www.daviscaves.com Tel: 309-392-2574.
CEDAR HOMES
International Homes of Cedar (Laminated Cedar Homes) P.O. Box 886, Woodinville, Wa 98072 Tel: 360-668-8511 or toll free 800-767-7674. Website: http://www.ihoc.com/
LOG HOMES
There are hundreds of log home companies. However, it has been my experience that log home suppliers in the Eastern US are almost double the price of western log home suppliers. Call for price comparason with the company below to see how your local dealer compares. Often it is much cheaper to ship log kits from the west than buy in the east.
Real Log Homes Hartland, VT and throughout the Eastern States (800) 732-5564 Compare prices with the West. Website: http://www.realloghomes.com/
Timberline Log Homes 915 N. State St. Orem, Ut 84058, (801) 226-8786. website: http://www.timberlineloghomes.net/ This is the company I use as a reference for a fair price. I have consistently found this outfit to be very competitive and fairly priced. Check your prices locally and then give the same specs to this company to see how they compare. In many cases, it has been more economical to buy from Timberline, and ship to the East coast than to buy in the East.
ICF (INSULATED CONCRETE FORMS)
The Portland Cement Association has introduced both a book on building with insulated concrete forms (known as ICF construction), and a 5-part video series on the topic. The 326-page book, Insulating Concrete Forms, ($60 postpaid) is a highly detailed look at these systems, from design through installation to completion. Numerous section and perspective views of various ICFs are given. If you're considering building with an ICF system, the book is necessary reading. The video series ($65 postpaid) doesn't provide detailed information, but it gives a realistic overview of ICFs, since much of its 80 minutes was filmed at construction sites. The five videos are design, planning, setting forms, placing concrete, and utilities/interior finish. Contact the Portland Cement Association, 5420 Old Orchard Rd., Skokie, IL 60077.
THERMALITE: 1-800-500-4898. website: http://www.thermaliteforms.com/ . Flat foam forming system tied together with plastic ties. One of few systems that can accommodate concrete walls up to 14 inches wide. One has to put together the forms - do not come as blocks, thus allowing much wider variety of wall widths. Bracing system must be rented or purchased from them - highly recommended.
BLUE MAX: One of the only foam block systems that allows an 8" wide, full-width concrete wall. Now under the name ARXX: website: http://www.arxx.net/
AAB Building System, Inc. http://oikos.com/esb/40/AAB-icf.html Address: 840 Division St., Cobourg, Ontario K9A-4J9 Canada Tel: 800-293-3210 Fax: 905-373-0002.
SMARTBLOCK Use variable width form only - gives solid wall thickness up to 8." Pre formed blocks with integral ties. Plastic ties are built into foam, recessed 3/4" from outside (makes them a little harder to reach for attachment purposes). CONFORM website: http://www.smartblock.com/ Call 1-800-CONFORM for distributor nearest you.
LITEFORM: (Flat foam - have to build it up yourself, so it takes longer) But, you can buy wholesale direct from the factory and save money. Lite-Form International is headquartered at 1210 Steuben St., Sioux City, IA 51105 Tel: 712-252-3704 Fax: 712-252-3259 Toll Free in North America 1-800-551-3313 website: http://www.liteform.com/ . Email: general@liteform.com/
QUADLOCK (Flat Foam forms - install ties yourself) They also have insulated decking for floors and ceilings. Website: www.quadlock.com . Address: QUAD-LOCK Building Systems Ltd. 7398 132nd Street Surrey, B.C. V3W 4M7 Canada Tel: (888) 711-LOCK (604) 590-3111 Fax: (604) 590-8412.
CUSTOM MODULAR HOMES
Avis Homes, Avis, Pa. http://www.avisamerica.com/ Probably the most advance type of modular homes available--with a great deal of customization possible. These are not your normal type of tract home.
STORAGE SHIPPING CONTAINERS (Insulated Reefers) about $2200 plus shipping. Equipment Service Storage 7226 North Loop East Houston, Tx 77028 Tel: 713-674-1082 Dallas Office 214-374-3995. Check locally as well. There are many outlets across the nation for these containers.
DC OR AC ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
LOW VOLTAGE LIGHTING SYSTEMS
Lite Touch, Inc One of the premier remote control lighting systems. Great for activating lights and shutters systems remotely--or anything electrical. Tel: 801-268-8668. http://www.litetouch.com/
LINEAR CURRENT BOOSTER (for using solar panels to run a water pump or motor directly)
Sun Selector LCB 20 (about $400) Abraham Solar Equipment
DC LOAD CENTER
Alternate Energy Engineering http://www.aeesolar.com/index.htm/ or talk to Abraham Solar Equip.
AC-DC POWER CONTROL CENTER
Trace Power Center Combines all meters, fuses, circuitbreakers, and connections into one unit - code approved. Custom built for each application. Buy from Abraham Solar or Beselfreliant.com
DC-AC SOLID STATE INVERTER
TRACE CORPORATION is NOW XANTREX. They are considered by many to be "top of the Line" but energy guru Mick Abraham says they have now become way too complex. So, now he also sells
VICTRON ENERGY BLUE inverters: Check out the differences. Contact Mick at www.abrahamsolar.com
BATTERY EQUALIZER SYSTEM (for combining 12 volt batteries and a 24 volt battery system)
Vanner model 60-50A Abraham Solar.
BATTERY MAINTAINERS and DESULFATION
BATTERY WEB http://www.batteryweb.com/batterymindercomparison.cfm/ see this webpage for a run down on all the new battery maintenance technology. Never use a "trickle charger." Trickle chargers do not turn off and on to keep a float charge - they will overcharge the battery and ruin it eventually. Sulphation of the lead plates occurs on all batteries over time. There is one technology that keeps batteries from sulphating and one that can remove sulphation once it occurs.
SCHUMACHER SE-1125 Automatic Battery Charger/Maintainer (keeps battery at a perfect float charge without overcharging) about $25 from Walmart and other auto parts stores.
DEEP DISCHARGE STORAGE BATTERIES
6-volt Golf Cart Batteries (about $49 each) cheap source (Costco Wholesale or Sam's Clubs).
Heavy Duty Deep Cycle Batteries for Solar Systems: Go to www.beselfreliant.com
DEKA BATTERS, see: Abraham Solar Tel: 800-222-7242.
TROJAN L-16 and L-16HC from Abraham Solar Tel: 800-222-7242.
AGM (absorbed Glass Matt) batteries. Heavy duty, high amperage delivery capacities without ruining battery. Optima or Lifelinehttp://www.lifelinebatteries.com/ batteries are 2 prominent brands. Check with Abraham Solar or an internet site like http://www.dcbattery.com/ or http://www.concordebattery.com/.
USED SOLAR EQUIPMENT: www.abrahamsolar.com deals in lots of used solar equipment:
HYDROCAPS
These units condense the water vapor out of battery gassing so you don't have to water as often. Get them from Abraham Solar 1-800-222-7242.
JUNCTION BOX
For solar array connections - contains SOV lightning arrestor. Model 53-911 from Abraham Solar.
WIRING SIZES (these will varying according to specific installation, but this should give you a general idea for a small to medium installation)
Solar Panels to J-Box #6 stranded copper.
J-Box to APT Power Center or Charge controller: (2) #2 stranded copper, 1 #6 stranded copper for external ground connection.
Battery interconnect cables #2 stranded copper (Abraham Solar) or auto supply stores.
Battery bank (last connection) to Inverter: #2/0 stranded copper, preferrably welding wire.
Grounding cable: 1" wide braided copper.
12/24 VOLT FLUORESCENT LIGHTING
THINLITE Corp For 12 volt systems: use #197 (36" long) or #139 (48"long) fluorescent. For 24 volt systems use model numbers #297 or #239, same cost - about $65) from Abraham Solar or local RV supply stores carry Thinlite Products.
WHITE LED LIGHTS
WHITE LED FLASHLITE. Numerous brands available everywhere now. COSTCO has some very high quality powerful LED flashlites in 2-pak [Life+Gear 210 Lumens]
18 LED SURFACE MOUNTING LIGHT "Super Nova" available in 12,24, 36, 48 volts. Abraham Solar at 1-800-222-7242.
12v LIGHT BULBS local RV suppliers)
12 VOLT BATTERY CHARGER
Radio Shack, model 23-139
12 VOLT VENTILATION FANS
Best all-around choice is the DAYTON brand 12 volt fan from WW Grainger Stock # 2C646. About $75, 175 CFM and fairly quiet. What makes these fans convenient is their 3" flange which allows you to easily attach it to the vent pipe shown in my shelter designs. The stock number for the 115 volt version is Item #: 2C647 You will need this for running during non-emergency times to keep the shelter air fresh. It is the same size and configuration as the 12 volt variety. If you have two separate vent openings, put the 12v fan on one and the 115v fan on the other. If you have only one vent inlet, install the 115v fan for normal use and switch to the 12v fan during emergency.
FUEL STORAGE EQUIPMENT
GASOLINE STABILIZER
Stabil, found at Pep Boys and other Auto Parts stores.
PRI: Proven #1 For Stability. This is the best stuff available. Use PRI-D & G to stabilize stored fuels. PRI-D & G can keep diesel fuel, kerosene, and gasoline fresh in storage. PRI-D & G can actually restore old fuels to refinery specifications. Yellowstone Trading: (800) 585-5077 URL: www.yellowstonetrading.com/ .
OCTANE BOOSTER: Gives much better mileage on cars where timing is computer controlled to create maximum compression just short of knocking (most modern cars). It can be found at auto parts stores (helps rejuvenate old gasoline, so keep several bottles on hand for use with old stored fuel. Also keep fuel injector cleaners on hand to eliminate residues from old fuel) Cheapest at Walmart.
DIESEL FUEL STORAGE ADDITIVE
Racor Biocide 1-800-344-3286. An insecticide plus additives to keep diesel fuel from growing algae and other solid organic matter. Call the 800 number to find distributor nearest you. http://www.dieselpage.com/filter.htm/
FUEL TANKS (Available in all major cities. See Yellow Pages or check with local Petroleum distributor)
FUEL PUMPS (Check under Petroleum Equipment in Yellow pages)
FOOT VALVES Used at the bottom of a suction line. These are available at petroleum equipment dealers or at large plumbing outlets. Here are some sample brands of foot valves.
Simmons model 1402
Merril Series 810, model FV75
Water Ace model RFV75
Brady model SFV75 (plastic)
FOOD STORAGE
NOTES: Best buys in food storage are in bulk dried grains: Wheat, rice, and beans. Due to the shipping weight of bulk foods for storage, it best to buy these items close to home. (Shipping will cost you nearly $40/50 lb bucket, whereas if you can pick it up locally, you save those costs.) You can buy large bags of beans and rice at Cosco and at Sam's Clubs nationwide. You can buy bulk wheat in many locations in the West, as indicated below. However, in the midwest few grain growers bag any wheat for consumers. The best bet for people in the Midwest is to join together with a few other families and buy grain in bulk from the grower. Load up your pickup truck with grain, and then package it yourself plastic 6 gallon buckets. Many farmers in the Midwest and Canada have small grain cleaners that can take out the dust and other particles from field grain. Use a spoonful of diatomacious earth per bucket of grain to kill any bugs.
DIATOMACIOUS EARTH
Sprinkle a tablespoon over and into a bucket of grain to kill all weavil. Harmless to humans. Available at any swimming pool supply house. It is used as a filter medium. It is also available at many garden stores since it is an effective pest control item (sprinkled on cabbage or lettuce, etc).
SOURCES OF DEHYDRATED FOODS AND PACKAGED GRAINS
Shelf Reliant 810 North 2800 West Lindon, Utah 84042. Website: www.shelfreliant.com/ . Tel: 1-877-743-5373.
Provident Living: www.Providentliving.com
Montana Chemical Free Wheat Website: http://www.mtmarketplace.com/
Lehi Roller Mills Tripple-cleaned hard or soft wheat. Reasonable prices. Contact: (801) 768-4401, Address: 833 E. Main St., Lehi, Ut 84043. Website: http://www.lehirollermill.com/
Walton Wheat Full service chemical free supply outlet for all types of survival foods and equipment. Very reputable. Contact: Walton Feed 135 North 10th, P.O. Box 307, Montpelier, ID 83254 Tel: 800-269-8563. Website: http://waltonfeed.com/
NON-HYBRID SEEDS
Territorial Seed Company P.O. Box 27, Lorane, Ore 97451 Tel: 541-942-9547.
Harris Seeds 1-800-514-4441.
Internet sources for hybrid seeds:
WATER BARRELS
New 55 Gallon Polyethylene http://www.beprepared.com/
MOISTURE AND OXYGEN ABSORBERS (FOR DRY PACKING)
STORAGE BUCKETS
ROPAK WEST Tel 1-800-547-2347 (call to find distributor closest to you).
GENERATORS
SOURCES: Because of shipping weight, the heavier generators are sometimes best purchased from local generator dealers (see Yellow pages). However, always compare price with one of the major mail order generator supply houses. WW Grainger and Northern Tools will supply a wide variety of the cheaper or discontinued generator lines. For the best prices on the high quality units, call Norwall Power Systems Lake Havasu City, Az Tel: (520) 453-4494. Website: http://norwall.com/ These people ship all over the world and are experts - very good prices, too. They don't sell any junk, and service all major brands (so they know which ones are best for maintenance, too).
MINI PORTABLES
Small suitcase type gensets, less than 2000 watts, that are super quiet and super fuel-efficient:
Coleman Pulse 1850 (1.8kw) . Best buy of the quiet, small gensets that will run 7 hours day on 1.5 gal of fuel.
Yamaha EF1000 It is only 1kw but it is very fuel efficient and quiet and runs all day on a gallon of gas. Costs double the larger Coleman brand.
Honda EU1000i This is the newest high tech wonder from Honda, but it runs its current through a new high tech inverter - giving excellent sine wave power (but may be a high tech problem in maintenance - and also the most costly).
PORTABLES
There are two classes of generators here: the cheap group with flat-head, side valve, lawnmower type engines, and the more expensive group with longer life overhead cam and valve engines. Starting from the best and most expensive to the cheapest, lowest quality here is how I would rank them (from top to bottom):
Kawasaki GE Series Best maintenance history, rugged engines, pressurized oil system, great bearing surfaces - most expensive.
Honda Delux Series Honda is one of those companies with a high quality line, and a medium quality line (the ECON models - don't confuse them).
Generac EXL Series Generac also has a high and low line. The XL or EXL lines have the pressurized oil system "vanguard" engine or the Honda engine.
Kubota AV Series - excellent machines (Kubota always builds nice engines).
Kubota Diesel Gensets Model GL6500 (6.5kw) about $4500 (Kubota Tractor Dealers).
Generac (cheaper lines)
Winco (cheaper lines)
Coleman Powermate 5kw gas generator - about $500 (cheapest, moderate quality, but most generator for the money).
STAND-BY GENERATORS
Top to bottom in price and quality:
Kohler simply the best in all regards, and most expensive. Rock solid engines and electronics. Kohler transfer switches rarely fail. Available in Gasoline, LP, NG (or all three) or Diesel.
Onan - second best overall, but some problems with electronic reliability in past) all fuels avail.
Hawk Power (Lester Petter diesel engines - English and Mitsubishi gas/lp/ng engines).
Generac II (8K and above are top quality engines) Best Buy for very good quality.
China Diesel Cheapest of the diesel gensets (buy a spare rebuild kit) and very noisy, but has a good reliability record. Recommend the 8000 Watt S195 Engine, 1800 RPM Brushless Alternator, Continuous Duty, Includes Radiator, This company now sells a full line of other standby and marine generators. Call 800-341-7027 or website: www.chinadiesel.com .
SPECIALTY STAND-BY
TRI-FUEL GENERATOR: For the ultimate in multi-fuel use, you can pay more and get a generator set up for three fuels: Gasoline, LP and NG. Onan or Kohler both have these units perfected. Call Norwall Power Systems, Lake Havasu City, Az Tel: (520) 453-4494.
STEAM ENGINES
TINY POWER: http://www.tinypower.com/
5 HP Liberty http://www.thesustainablevillage.com/servlet/display/product/detail/32104/
12 HP Steam GENSET http://www.thesustainablevillage.com/servlet/display/product/detail/30748/
Mike Brown Steam http://www.thesustainablevillage.com/servlet/display/product/detail/29811
BATTERY MAINTAINER
Schaumacher Battery Maintainer, $25 from Walmart stores, nationwide.
SPECIAL ACCESSORIES FOR GENERATORS
Manual and Auto Transfer Switches for Portable Generators:
Most Generator manufacturers offer a wide variety of these transfer switches. Abraham Solar is an expert on these.
Master Sales Website: http://www.mastersalesonline.com/ Call Toll Free 1-888-917-2244
SILENCING MUFFLERS FOR GENERATORS
HARCO, Inc Portland Oregon. (503) 244-7571. Website: www.harcomfg.com Harco has 2 levels of silencers: Super Critical (attenuates down to nearly silent) about $175, and Critical which is about $140. They also have the same two levels in a "low Profile" unit for small, tight locations. These cost about 25-30% more. All these mufflers are stat-of-the-art silencers, and are very reasonably priced. You can afford to stack two mufflers together for super critical needs inside a home. Email at harco1@teleport.com.
HEATING EQUIPMENT
KEROSENE HEATERS
Kerosun DC 100 1-888-537-6786 Most fuel efficient and cleanest burn.
PROPANE WALL HEATERS (VENTLESS)
There are a variety of manufacturers of ventless heaters now. Most home improvement stores carry them. Vanguard is one brand. Another is:
Kozy World Heaters, The have units from 1-6 burners. I prefer the manual units without fans or thermostats. Just select the number of burners you want on. Available in LP and natural gas a "BEST BUY."
MULTI-FUEL FURNACES
TURBO HEAT MULTI-FUEL BOILER: Burns almost anything, can change burners http://www.beselfreliant.com/heating/index.cfm/
YUKON Multifuel Furnace (www.yukon-eagle.com ) Alpha American Co.1000 Ag Science Drive, P.O. Box 20, Palisade, MN 56469 Tel: 1-800-358-0060.
CHARMASTER Products, Inc. http://www.charmaster.com 2307 No. 2 West Grand Rapids, Mn 55744 Tel: (218) 326-6768 (Makes combination wood/oil or gas furnaces and even a furnace with a fireplace front on the side.)
WOODSTOVES
Travis Industries, Inc. 10850 117th Place NE, Kirkland, WA 98033 Tel: (425) 827-9505 Makers of the LOPI high efficiency woodstoves, Avalon Pellet Stoves & Fireplace Xtrordinair lines of Wood, Pellet & Gas hearth heating stoves.
Avalon Wood stoves and Pellet Stoves Website: Eastcoast: http://www.stoveworksnj.com/
Regency Wood Stoves and Gas Fireplaces. website: www.regency-fire.com . A highly recommended clean-burn stove without catalytic converter.
MASONRY HEATERS
Masonry heaters are the old world style of using long and turning flues to heat a mass of brick or stone that gives off an even heat for much longer than traditional stoves. All of these must be custom built. They are the cadillac of home heating with wood. One of the best books to show you how to do it is by Ken Matesz: Masonry Heaters, published by Chelsea Gardens. Available on Amazon.com
DIRECT VENT GAS/WOOD FIREPLACES
Heat-N-Glo Website: www.heatnglo.com. 20802 Kensington Blvd. Lakeville, MN 55044 Tel: 888-743-2887. Local dealers almost everywhere.
Regency Wood Stoves and Gas Fireplaces. website: www.regency-fire.com .
DEDICATED WOOD WATER HEATER
AquaHeater, LEHMAN'S item; #59-841; or Domestic Growers Supply (541) 592-3615.
COAL STOKER STOVES
Alaska Coal Stoker Pennwood Stoves, Fireplaces, Etc. West College Avenue, Pleasant Gap, Pa. 16823 Tel: 1-800-598-3995.
AIR TO AIR HEAT EXCHANGERS
XeteX, Inc. 3530 E. 28th St. Minneapolis, MN 55406 Tel: (888) 899-9991 Toll Free or (612) 724-3101 voice mail. URL: www.xetexinc.com (This company has some of the best and most cost effective heat exchangers.)
HOUSEHOLD PREPAREDNESS EQUIPMENT
GENERAL INTERNET ORDER SOURCE
APPLIANCES ONLINE Website: www.appliances.com E-Mail: zupanci@ibm.net Voice & Fax: 440-543-8345. Good, one stop shopping for most small household appliances.
JUICERS
Champion Juicer: (about $215) from most health food stores.
Vita-Mix: About $360. Call 1-800-848-2649 for info.
KEROSENE STOVE
ALPACA (about $79) from Emergency Essentials.
WHOLE HOUSE HYPO-ALLERGENIC FILTERS SYSTEM
http://www.casadavida.com The CVI-series EnviroConditioner controls every parameter of indoor air quality. As an integrated part of the HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system, the air in the entire house is processed and distributed through the central air conditioning ductwork. Nothing on the market can compare to the effectiveness of the CVI EnviroConditioner at any price. Very Pricey.
· Pressurizes the house with fresh outside air, exhausts stale air, and utilizes the structure of the building to create a hyberbaric chamber
· Advanced filtration remove overs 99.7% of particulate matter from the air, eliminating dust in the house
· Sterilizes the airstream of virtually all biologicals, destroying viruses, bacteria, molds, mycobacteria, mildew, pollen, animal dander, dust mites, etc.
· Independent laboratory tests confirm the destruction of over 99.996% of viruses and over 99.999% of bacteria
· Eliminates environmental toxicants
· Eliminates odors- gives house a clean, fresh smell
· Eliminates smoke
· Destroys toxic mold
WHEAT/GRAIN GRINDERS-ELECTRIC/MANUAL
EVERYTHING KITCHENS: Online shopping of a full range of all the newest equipment: WWW.everythingkitchens.com
Nutrimill from Everythingkitchens.com, Emergency Essentials or Waltons.
Golden Grain Grinder (conventional type of stone mill motorized grinder) www.goldengraingrinder.com
MANUAL GRINDERS
Country Living Grain Mill http://www.countrylivinggrainmills.com/ V-groove wheel for quick and easy conversion to electric motor. Cast-iron flywheel for easy turning and smooth flow of flour. Large hopper holds 2 lb. of wheat easy-Dial, self-locking adjustment. Double sealed industrial ball bearings. 30% less torque or energy required to turn than any comparable hand mill on the market. This grain mill is designed to be easily motorized. The fly wheel is grooved for use with a standard V Belt. We recommend using at least a 1/3 HP motor rated at 1150 RPM and equipped with a 1 1/2" pulley. This ratio will produce about 115 to 120 RPM at the flywheel. Other motors may be used, but they will need to be geared so that the RPM at the flywheel does not exceed 140 RPM.
The Family Grain Mill is unique in that it offers both a grain mill and a roller mill, as well as a choice of hand-powered or electric, or both. You can mix and match the components any way you want. Grain Mill with hand base or motorized base, Roller Mill with hand base or motorized base . Buy both on the hand base for about $196 from Homestead Products website www.homestead-products.com , phone in Oregon: 541-688-9263.
KITCHEN MIXERS
BOSCH Unviersal Kitchen System
K-TEC "Champ" Delux model with all attachments www.everythingkitchens.com/k-tecblender.html . The Champ Mixer is the most versatile multi-function home food preparation machine available today. The Champ combines the features of a strong 1400 watt, 1.8 peak horsepower motor with a sophisticated, keypad-controlled computer "Bread Brain." The Champ computer assists the cook by measuring the resistance of the developing gluten in the bread and turns off the machine once it has developed perfectly. The Champ is also the strongest blender on the market. Our blender jar is made of GE Lexan plastic, the same material used in bullet-proof glass. The most popular attachment is the pasta maker/meat grinder combination.
PRESSURE CANNERS
All American is now producing the model 941 (41 quart) pressure canner. Smithfield Implement in Smithfield, UT has them in stock. If you need another source on home canning see http://www.home-canning.com/ . http://www.pressurecooker-outlet.com/americancans.htm/
PEELER
Apple, Potato Peeler (about $30, plus $12 for potato attachments) Emergency Essentials.
SMALL CONVENTIONAL REFRIGERATOR (most energy-efficient)
Magic Chef ct-1511AE (15 cubic ft) uses 1.2 kw/day $37/year.
LARGE CONVENTIONAL REFRIGERATOR (most energy-efficienty)
Kitchen Aid, Whirpool, Kenmore 25 cu. ft. side-by-side use 1.75 kw/day or $54/year.
ALTERNATE ENERGY REFRIGERATORS
SUN FROST: www.abrahamsolar.com
SOLARFRIDGE: 19 cu. ft. (12 volt fridge) Better alternative to SunFrost but same high price. ($2,700) Simpler Solar 3118 W. Tharpe St.Tallahassee, FL 32303, website: www.simplersolar.com or call 1-800-248-9786. Two models of fridges use .5 and .7 kw/h for the 6 and 12 cu ft models.
KOOLATRON - small non compresser technology - about 2 cu. ft., 4 amp 12Vdc icebox. Available at outdoor stores.
Kool Mate 40 by Igloo. Another thermoelectric cooler like the Koolatron - sits upright or on its side so as to operate like a small fridge.
PROPANE OR KEROSENE REFRIGERATORS
NORCOLD: 2 way and 3-way 7.5 cu. ft. Propane fridge model 1082,
DOMETIC 7.5 cu. ft. propane fridge (same as Servel brand from Sweden) - about $1,200. Can also buy these with 120volt backup power, or in natural gas or kerosene. Most RV suppliers are Dometic distributors.
FOOD DEHYDRATORS
Magic Aire II On-Line Health Products 387 Yellowstone Ave., Pocatello, Idaho 83201 (800) 789-1577 or (208) 234-9352 http://www.dhi.com/ .
Air Preserve II On-Line Health Products 387 Yellowstone Ave., Pocatello, Idaho 83201 (800) 789-1577 or (208) 234-9352.
Harvest Maid (Available at many preparedness stores listed at the beginning.)
WATER DISTILLERS
Genesis 20-G3000 (about $250). This is a portable model, counter-top. Optimal Health Concepts 355 N. Lantana Street, Suite 730, Camarillo, CA 93010-9030. 24 hour Orders: 888-390-4676 http://intohealth.com/ This company sells a lot of excellent health products.
PORTABLE WATER FILTERS
PUREFLOW 2000 will remove bacteria, giardia, cryptosporidium, chlorine, chlorine byproducts, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), trihalomethanes, pesticides, herbicides, tastes, odors, and more. PureFlow 2000 purification starts with our highly efficient clean able ceramic microfilter which provides genuine sub-micron filtration. After all signs of bacteria and ultrafine sediment are removed, the PureFlow 2000 passes the water through a highly dense solid block of extruded activated carbon. Chlorine removal for 20,000 gallons (76,000 liters) of water at 1ppm chlorine. The PureFlow2000 "Plus" is the same System with a 3rd Filter for heavy debris URL: www.millennialgoods.com/
Katadyn Vario portable camping filter www.purwaterfilter.com/BREAD MAKERS
Zojirushi V-20: order online from Costco for the best price www.costco.com. See a product review of all the breadmakers at URL:www.consumersearch.com/
BREAD MIXERS
BOSCH mixer: This unit is the Cadillac of all combination units. There is no higher quality unit around. The unit with all the attachments, including everything imaginable, will run you several hundred dollars. Available at hundreds of online stores.
HIGH EFFICIENCY APPLIANCES WASHING MACHINES
Staber 2300 washing machine uses 1 oz., of soap, 21 gallons of water (saves 25 gallons/load), less than 200 watts per load. Spins faster, most of the water is removed. It is a toploader and the clothes go through a door in the rotating drum - not as convenient to load or unload because of the small opening. See Abraham Solar 1-800-222-7242.
ASKO The best of the current models http://www.askousa.com/ Swedish import--top of the line Euro appliances. Also very high priced
MAYTAG Neptune Mod #MAH3000A. The matching Neptune dryer model MD3000A. Model number for Neptune Super Stack washer/dryer combo is MUE for electric dryer, and MUG for gas. Neptune washer uses 22 gallons of water per cycle instead of the old average amount of 38 gallons per cycle. Spin speed is 800 rpms on the old and 850 on the new. Because of the larger tub size on the Maytag Neptune, less rpms are required to extract the same amount of water as other brands. Use HE (high efficiency detergents) about $1,100.
FRIGIDAIRE (also Gibson) Front Loading Washer FT449GFS - spins up to 850 rpm dryer FSE748GF (matching front load). Low Price: $800 (best buy) also is a true under-counter model. Floor models can be stacked for convenience and without buying any extra cabinet.
MANUAL WRINGER WASHERS
The James Hand Washer is the washer of choice among those who wash by hand as a way of life. Its unique lever action makes agitating the clothes so easy a child can do it. It has a stainless steel tub and a wringer so efficient that it gets out twice as much moisture as spin drying. Very well-made and durable. Wringer can be bought separately for $130.00 The company that makes these will sell directly to you. Contact S & H Metal Products Inc., 122 Redman Dr, Topeka, IN (219) 593-2565. Or you can buy through Lehman's catalog,
MANUAL CLOTHES WRINGER
Buy a Chamois [chammy] wringer at auto supply stores for about $160 [Champ Catalogue item #J9-213] and mount on a 30 gal barrel. This is too high a price in my opinion. I would get the James washer wringer, instead. You can buy it directly from several other small outfits that carry them such as Get Prepared Stuff, Or call the manufacturer, Lake City Industries at (814) 774-9616 to get a list of the nearest local source to you. It is called the #76-3 Hand Wringer.
PORTABLE COOK STOVES - KEROSENE
ALADDIN stoves carry the most complete line of kerosene heaters and stoves.
The ALPACA is great if you need something stronger and simpler than a backpacking stove. It's very sturdy and will take as large a pot as you care to put on it. Extremely simple, reliable design, with a minimum of moving parts to wear out. Fuel tank holds 0.9 gallons and has a fuel level gauge. Runs for 16 hours on a filling. Output 8,500 BTU; weight 13 lbs; size about 13" high x 13" diameter. There are many foreign models as well, since Europe and South America use kerosene extensively. PRIMUS is perhaps the largest foreign model.
WATERLESS COOKWARE
VOLLRATH: The heaviest and the best. The Vollrath Company, L.L.C., Tel: 1-800-624-2051, Fax: (920) 459-6570 website www.vollrathco.com .
LONG LASTING 130V LIGHT BULBS
FEIT ELECTRIC LA, CA lasts 14,000 hours and costs only a little more than standard bulbs - best buy on the market from home improvement stores.
COMPACT FLOURESCENTS
GE brand. They will run better off an inverter than other brands.
SUNPIPES
1,500 watts of free, fresh light as easy to install as stovepipe. Hollow, super-reflective pipe runs from your roof down to a translucent ceiling fixture that spreads the light down. Natural, full-spectrum light without glare, heat, or uncomfortable hot spots. Less expensive and easier to install than a skylight. Doesn't build up unwanted summer heat, create condensation, sun-fading problems, and won't leak.
KEROSENE LAMP AND PROPANE LANTERNS
Rapid Kerosene Pressure Lamp uses pressurized fuel and a mantle to generate 500 lumens (300 watt light bulb). Burns 10 hours from one-third gallon kerosene (one filling).
Petromax Multi-Fuel Lantern $120 from Homestead Supply. This German beauty is the cadillac of lanterns. Burns all liquid fuels, nickel finish, very classy. Puts out tremendous light. See: www.petromax.com
Dietz Wick-Oil Lamp The best of the old fashioned wick/oil lamps - beautiful and inexpensive. Lanterns Online, http://members.tripod.com/~timcallen/lantern/index.htm .
Humphrey Propane Lamps The oldest and best company http://www.thesustainablevillage.com/servlet/display/products/byCat/7/29/170
FULL SPECTRUM COMPACT FLUORESCENT
Sun-A-Lite Compact fluorescent replace screw-in bulbs with total spectrum, radiation-shielded fixtures.
Excella Full spectrum fluorescents 20 watts to 40 watt tubes
All home improvement stores now sell full sprectrum fluorescents now.
FEATHER QUILTS, BEDS
The Company Store: http://www.thecompanystore.com/ 500 Company Store Rd, LaCrosse WI 54601, Tel: 1-800-356-9367.
RESIDENTIAL ELEVATORS
Lift-Avator 435 Park Ave, Lockport, NY 14094 Tel: (716) 434-1300. URL: http://www.stair-ease.com/
Tri-State Elevators at http://www.tri-state-lift.com shows 4 or 5 of the most common residential elevators. Tri State Lift 1414 South Oak Street Owatonna, MN 55060 Toll Free Call: 1-800-626-6017.
NUCLEAR PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
RADIATION METER
Victoreen 717 surplus survey meters. Range 0-500 rads, comes with detachable ion chamber so you don't have to buy a separate probe to take measurements outside the shelter. Uses 1 "D-Cell" battery. Simple, low tech, reliable. These are not in production, unused in new condition. Have not been calibrated since production. Calibration will usually drift 10-20% at the most, which is not critical for the high dose measurements you would make in a nuclear war. KI4U website: http://www.radmeters4u.com/
CALIBRATION NOTE: Meters can be recalibrated if necessary by sending them to KI4U.com or Jordan Nuclear, 3244 Arroyo Seco Ave, L.A. CA 90065. Call for rates: 1-(323) 222-8143. Mgr: Ed Manughian
Dosimeter Corporation model 3510. Range 0-3000 rads. Probe is extra. Top of the line quality. Contact Tel: 1-800-322-8258.
KFM kit meter (Under $20) order from Emergency Essentials, Orem Utah. (1-800-999-1863).
NUCLEAR BIOLOGICAL, CHEMICAL (NBC) FILTER SYSTEM
Model LUWA 180, about $6,000 - super expensive. US Rep. for the Swiss Luwa Corporation is Sharon Packer, Utah Shelter Systems, PO Box 638, Heber, Ut 84032 or on the web: http://www.disastershelters.net/
MILITARY NBC ROOM FILTER
This unit is US made for the military and much cheaper than the LUWA. More importantly, it can be mounted outside your shelter where the particles trapped in the filter won't radiate your shelter.
HUNTER MFG
http://hdtglobal.com/index.cfm?navid=201
The M98, 200-cfm CBRN filter set removes toxic gases and particulates to provide purified air for a variety of applications, including mobile shelters, vehicles and ship-borne collective protection systems. The M98 filter set is ideal for all medium airflow requirements and can also be applied to higher airflow applications such as building protection. This unit is a circular filter, perfect for placing over the inlet pipe to the shelter.
This next filter is the military unit with a pipe fitting built in:
http://hdtglobal.com/index.cfm?navid=197
The M48A1 is a self-contained filter, with both the gas and particulate filter elements housed in one canister;Price: less than $2,000 Features: 100-cfm airflow
Self-contained canister ASZM-TEDA carbon media Modularity allows for multiple filter
applications Horizontal or vertical installation
ALTERNATE AND CHEAPER NBC FILTERS (HEPA SPECS)--for light duty
Order all 3 Replacement filters for a Honeywell "Enviracaire" model #63200 filter unit:
1. Replacement HEPA filter (down to 3 microns) (#28600) about $90
2. Replacement CPZ filter (#36200) about $90
3. Replacement charcoal Pre-filters (pkg of 2) - (#34002) $20
WW GRAINGER carries the HEPA and the CPZ filter, but not the charcoal pre-filters. Here are the Grainger stock numbers: HEPA FILTER: 3GD14, CPZ FILTER: 3GD18
12 VOLT FANS
ITT JABSCO, model 35115-0020
WW GRAINGER stock # 4C814 Note, these are plastic blowers, high RPM 4200, hence noisy. These are not meant to be run on continuous duty (for continuous duty fan, order stock #2C646a 12 volt, 176 CFM ). 110volt fan (141 cfm) for ventilation under normal power, buy unit number 2C916.
Round AUTO AIR FILTERS to place over shelter air inlets, about $5 each. available at auto supply stores.
EMP PROTECTION
EMP PROTECTORS
Zero Surge: The newest instantaneous clamping technology. Use for all your valuable plug in products like computers. ZeroSurge 944 State Route 12, Frenchtown, NJ 08825 Tel: 800-996-6696 Email: sales@zerosurge.com URL: www.zerosurge.com .
Alpha Delta Communications P.O. Box 620, Manchester, KY 40962 Tel. 606-598-2029 Products: Coax lightning arrestors, coax switches with surge protectors. http://www.alphadeltacom.com/
Ameritron, Louisville Road Starkville, MS 39759 Tel. 601-323-8211 Products: Remote coax switches, inrush AC current protector. http://www.ameritron.com/
ICE: Industrial Communication Engineers, Ltd. Website: http://www.iceradioproducts.com/ P.O. Box 18495, Indianapolis, IN 46218-0495 Tel. 317-545-5412 Products: Coax lightning arrestors suitable for EMP.
Polyphaser Corp. P.O. Box 9000, Minden, NV 89423-9000 Tel. 702-782-2511 Products: top of the line military grade EMP protection equipment. Prime source of all US government equipment, but expensive. Check with ICE first.
GROUNDING STRAPS, ETC
Certified Quality (The WIREMAN : http://thewireman.com/index.shtml ) 261 Pittman Rd., Landrum, SC 29356 Tel. 800-727-9473 (orders), 803-895-4195 (Tech line) Products: The Wireman stocks copper wire up to #4 AWG, 2-inch flat copper strap, 8-foot copper-clad ground rod and 1 x 1/4 inch bus bar.
Rohn Towers P.O. Box 2000, Peoria, IL 61656 Tel. 309-697-5612 Products: Radio towers mostly, but also copper strap and tower grounding products. Rohn products available through Amateur Electronic Supply or Ham Radio Outlet (listed in radio section)
FALLOUT SHELTERS
PREFAB CONCRETE TANKS (use for burial underground)
Oldcastle Precast (Custom precast waterproof concrete tanks - Address: 2820 A Street, SE, Auburn, WA 98071-0608 Tel: (253) 833-2777 Fax: (253) 939-9126 Website: www.oldcastle-precast.com Toll free: (888) 232-6274. They have local manufacturers all over the USA.
UNDERGROUND STEEL TANK-TYPE FALLOUT SHELTER (using 8' round steel culvert pipe--about $10,000 to build)
Utah Shelter Systems P.O. Box 638,-Heber, Ut 84032 (Sharon Packer (801) 942-5638). http://www.disastershelters.net/
Storm Chaser Shelters http://www.stormandtornado.com/ 1200 Lawson Road, Fort Worth, TX 76131 Tel: (817) 847-9000.
Do-It-Yourself Plans for tank type shelters from Art Robinson, Oregon Institute of Science and Medicine, 2251 Dick George Road, Cave Junction, Oregon 97523 Tel: (541) 592-4142.
BASEMENT FALLOUT, SECURITY SHELTERS
see "The Secure Home" by Joel Skousen URL: www.joelskousen.com/
CONCRETE BLOCK SHELTERS with stack block roof, built into existing homes - see "How To Implement A High Security Shelter in the Home" by Skousen, http://www.joelskousen.com/Secure/reports.html#HS/
STEEL PLATE SHELTERS, CUSTOM OR PREFAB
SAFECASTLE http://www.safecastle.com/home.php/
CO2 MONITOR
Tells you if carbon dioxide from occupant breathing activity is getting too high. Elevated CO2 will cause problems before you run out of oxygen. This unit also senses Oxygen levels too: Industrial Scientific, model CMX271. About $1200, $600 used or repaired.
http://www.plccenter.com/buy/Industrial+Scientific/CMX27
DRY FLUSH PORTABLE TOILET
Porta-John Systems, Inc. A Waterless Toilet. This portable, free-standing toilet doesn't use any water, but dry suctions everything into a bottom compartment lined with a plastic garbage bag. After 30 flushes, simply remove bag. http://www.toilets.com/products/waterless.htm
ELECTROSTATIC CARPET SWEEPER
FULLER BRUSH sales Item # 101 - Price $49.99. Check with your local Fuller Brush salesperson. Many have internet sites such as http://www.hfbd.com/
PLUMBING SYSTEMS
COMPOSTING TOILETS
BIOLET mini-composting toilet. Finally a composter about the size of a regular toilet! www.biolet.com Tel: 1-800-5biolet (US) 800-6biolet (Canada)
CLIVUS MULTRUM II for large unified system, using special toilets. Will compost continuous use for multiple people and also kitchen waste. Large size, must be sited in a basement area.
SUN-MAR CENTREX PLUS moderately small sized for placement in bathroom. Works on AC or DC power, automatic controls available. From $1,200-1,800 depending on options.
GREYWATER SYSTEM
EARTHSTAR Greywater Systems Automatic operation, sand filter with backwash cleaning. Available at Sustainable Village: http://www.thesustainablevillage.com/servlet/display/product/detail/28514
GREYWATER FILTER
Filter and tank, with DC or AC pump Sustainable Village, see above.
BIODEGRADABLE LAUNDRY DETERGENT - must use with grey water so as not to damage plants. Real Goods http://www.gaiam.com/
SANITATION EQUIPMENT
Chemical Toilets: ($20-50) available at camping and RV stores.
Marine Toilets: --My preferred manual toilet recommendation for shelters. These toilets have a manual pump that will pump waste up a 1-1/2" pipe as high as 6' allowing use in basement shelter systems where one must connect to existing plumbing drains at ceiling height. JABSCO brand, call 1-714-545-8251 to find distributor nearest you. Available at yacht and marine supply stores - order model #29120-2000 for the larger, elongated bowl.
Dry Flush Toilet: Porta-John® Systems, Inc. 50633 Ryan Road, Utica, Michigan 48317
Tel: 1-888-PORTA-JOHN (1-888-767-8256).
POTASSIUM IODATE TABLETS Take after any nuclear incident to avoid thyroid contamination by radiative iodine uptake. www.KI4U.com
HYDRAULIC RAMS
Here's an explanation of how they work: http://www.p2pays.org/ref/01/00971.htm
Columbia Hydraulic Ram contact: Skookum Co. Inc. 8524 N. Crawford St. Portland, OR 97203.
Pacific Hydro Corp. 400 Forbes Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94080
Rife Hydraulic Engine Mfg. Co. 316 W. Poplar St., P.O. Box 790, Norristown, PA 19401 Tel: (717) 740-1100 Fax: (717) 740-1101 Email: rife@epix.net/
Highlifter Pumps and B & L Hydraulic Rams (cheaper and simpler) from Abraham Solar Equipment.
HIGH EFFICIENCY CONVENTIONAL WATER HEATERS
Vaughn Manufacturing Corporation, 26 Old Elm St., P.O. Box 5431, Salisbury, MA 01952-5431 Tel: (978) 462-6683 (R-18 Urethane insulated, hydrastone-sealed tanks for long life).
Rheem/Rudd -Marathon Non Metalic tank - should last a lifetime. Electric only. (available from all Rheem/Ruud dealers) R-20 urethane insulation. The Imperial Plus line of standard water heaters are 10 year warranty R-20 units) see URL: www.rheem.com/ .
WOOD WATER HEATERS
AquaHeater Lehman's also sells a stand-alone water heater (their "System Two" unit) which is an AquaHeater that heats hot water in only 12 minutes without electricity! It provides a continuous supply as long as the fire is maintained. After the fire goes out, the insulated tank keeps the 10 gallons of water hot for hours. It produces up to two gallons of water per minute. http://www.lehmans.com/
LOW SURGE SUBMERSIBLE WELL PUMPS
Grundfos Variable Speed 3 inch submersible pump. Check www.us.grundfos.com .
12 OR 24 VOLT SOLAR CIRCULATION PUMPS
Grundfos: www.us.grundfos.com Available through most plumbing distributors.
FLEXIBLE PLASTIC PIPING AND MANIFOLDS
There is no better plumbing system for the do-it-yourself plumber than plastic pipe systems. You used to have two choices. One was polybutylene. It is very flexible and freeze resistant since it will expand rather than split or break. There has been a lot of bad press given to polybutylene due to the occurance of leaks in the older systems (almost always at joints with plastic fittings that cracked under improper clamping). This pipe will soon be replaced by the following improved version:
POLYETHYLENE PIPE (PEX)
This is the newest type of plastic pipe that is on the market. It appears to be stronger and more chemical and heat-resistant than polybutylene. It also uses the new manifold type plumbing junction connections like polybutylene. It is a little more expensive, however. See URL www.vanguardpipe.com for details. Available at all plumbing supply stores.
WATER TANKS
There are several types of plastic water tanks on the market - all of them preferable to steel in the small to medium sizes. The white tanks are POLYPROPYLENE, colored tanks are usually POLYETHYLENE, and black tanks are ABS plastic. FIBERGLASS tanks are used for the larger reinforced tanks and are not suitable for stored drinking water due to chemical outgassing. I will not list individual suppliers here because these are obtained locally in every rural farm community in the country, including the entire East Coast. Check the Yellow Pages for "tanks" or "water tanks."
Kolaps A Tank (bladder type collapsable tank, useful for hauling water in a pickup, and for temporary storage. It will even act as a giant solar water heater. http://www.burchkolaps-a-tank.com/
RADIO EQUIPMENT
All of the following equipment is available from Ham Radio Outlet or AES - the two biggest mail order radio stores - contact info at beginning of section.
FAMILY BAND RADIO
No license required, 1-2 mile range, low powered - like a walkie talkie, only higher quality. Available at electronic and radio stores locally--these are the best buy alternatives in radio. Best deals at Costco
CB RADIO
40 Channel: Radio Shack (NO LICENSE REQUIRED).
SHORT WAVE RECEIVERS Portable
Sony ICF-SW100s The ultimate in miniature-sized world band receiver (size of cassette)
Grundig Satellite 700 best sound of the high-end, full sized portables.
Sony ICF-SW7600G Best buy of the medium-sized, fully capable receivers.
Note: I do not recommend the Baygen (Freeway brand) wind-up radio, unless you must have the wind-up option. The radio receiver is not a high quality unit compared to those listed above. Even the sub-$100 name brand SW radios are superior.
HF TRANSCEIVERS (transmit and receive; compact and portable} - MUST HAVE HAM LICENSE. The 4 major manufacturers, Yaesu, Icom, Kenwood, and Standard all put out extremely high quality products. Each have a similar range. If you aren't going to get deep into ham radio (which requires a lot of study and time), choose an HF transceiver that has the minimum features plus a built-in antenna tuner. These will cost between $1,200-$2,000. Don't go for the top of the line models as they are very complex and hard to remember how to use.
Kenwood TX-50S 12 volt Portable: can be mounted in a vehicle.
Kenwood TS-850S/AT Desktop model: built in antenna tuner.
UHF, VHF radios, portable base station, dual band, plus capable of acting as a repeater
Kenwood TM733 (2m/440mhz)
HANDHELD PORTABLE
(2m/440mhz) Kenwood TH-79A
ANTENNAS
Car mount: Diamond NR-72BNMO, base station Diamond X-200A.
CB antennas, car mount. Radio Shack.
MOBILE HF ant: Outbacker Perth. Vertical Home base ant: Cushcraft R7.
Short Wave Antenna for your portable: SWL antenna , Ham Radio Outlet.
SCANNERS
Hand held, continuous coverage: AOR AR1000XLT .
Desk top: Bearcat 8500XLT 500 channels, not continuous coverage of all frequencies.
Antenna for Scanners: Home base station: Diamond D130.
SECURITY EQUIPMENT
SPECIALTY METAL HATCH DOORS The biggest and best company to supply all types of specialty hatch doors (roof, floor, and wall hatches) is Bilco door - long known for their sloping basement/tornado shelter doors. URL: www.bilco.com/ The Bilco Company, P.O. Box 1203, New Haven, Connecticut 06505 Tel: 203-934-6363.
WINDOW WELL SECURITY
The Improvement Network (www.windowwell.com ) markets a full range of lexan plastic window well covers for emergency escape and security against entry. Tel: 888/934-6776.
HURRICANE RESISTANT WINDOWS
Jarrett, Inc, Full range of custom hurricane-proof windows made to order, set in traditional window frames. http://www.jarrett-windows.com/Other_Specialties.htm 1-800-533-5097 .
PROTECTIVE FILM
Shatterguard Unbreakable backing to standard glass - can be applied to existing windows. Makes windows bullet-proof to small caliber (.22) weapons and makes windows inpenetrable to intruders. www.shattergard.com. You can also use this on car side and rear windows to keep thieves from breaking in, which is highly recommend. http://www.shatterguard.com/wellsfargo.html
STEEL UTILITY DOORS:
SteelCraft. This company makes the heaviest guage production doors available. You can get both B14 doors and 14 guage frames which are bullet-resistant to some small .22 or 25 caliber arms. This is the door I spec for my gravel fill option, with two deadbolts for providing the least expensive secure door for a shelter. It is bullet proof for all normal handgun loads. To order the lock prep option, specify opt. 161. Contact: SteelCraft 9017 Blue Ash Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242 Tel: (513) 745-6400 or Toll Free: (800) 243-9780
VAULT DOORS
Homeland Security Safes http://www.homelandsafes.com/EconomyVaultDoor.php country. Cheaper unit than the Liberty Safe unit recommended in High Security Shelter report (appendix) for installation details.
LIGHT WEIGHT VAULT DOOR for retrofit onto a closet or security room:
AMSEC Model VD8030 Door opening: 77-1/2" H x 26-1/2"W Weight: 550 lbs. American Security Products Co. 11925 Pacific Avenue Fontana, CA 92337 Tel: 1-800-421-6142.
BULLET-PROOF DOOR
Amweld series 1544, bullet resistant to Level 3 (high powered handguns) about $1,500 including high security locks. Amweld Building Products, Inc.,1500 Amweld Drive Garrettsville, Ohio 44231 Email: info@amweld.com Tel: 1.330.527.4385. Http://www.amweld.com
Trussbilt level III and level IV ballistic protection available. Trussbilt's detention hollow metal products are used in prisons, jails, juvenile facilities and detention centers worldwide. http://www.trussbilt.com/html/detenholmetoverview.htm
ARMORED STEEL PLATE
Custom ordered for door sized 5/16" tempered steel - level 4 protection - 7.62 high velocity military rounds). Order from Heflin Steel Phoenix, Az Tel: 1-800-528-4021 or local 252-8061. Attach this plate to a SteelCraft Series B-14 door with pour-in-place F-14 steel frame (for 8" concrete. If you are near a large city in the East, call around to see if any steel distributors carried tempered steel or armored steel plate.
SECURITY CLOSET DOOR
Total Door http://www.totaldoor.com/DesktopDefault.aspx
BULLET-PROOF PANELS
(Kevlar fiber building panels for protecting walls) .
BULLDOG DIRECT: http://www.bulldogdirect.com/directory_frame.html
ARMORCO http://www.armorco.com/shop/item.asp?itemid=242
KEVLAR REINFORCING PANELS AND WEBBING FOR HOMES
4X8 KEVLAR/FIBER PANELS. Use webbing to create an earthquake or tornado-proof room or closet in the home. Nail special kevlar webbing crosswise (X-pattern) around home or walls to make powerfully rigid shear walls. Also binds home down to foundation. Tape is 3" wide in 100 foot rolls and about the thickness of a nickel. --Very strong stuff.
New Necessities 5710 Pebblebrook Trail Gainesville, GA 30506 Tel: 770-844 URL: www.millibar.com. (Currently, 2006, it doesn't look like they are doing business). Use Spectra Shield by Bulldog Direct, above
BULLET-PROOF FABRICS, VESTS
BulletProofME.com (Nick Taylor) Brand-name bullet proof vests and body armor accessories at discounted prices. Very reliable source you can trust. URL: http://www.BulletProofME.com .
Bulldog Direct P.O. Box 8561 Cincinnati, Ohio 45208-8561 Tel: (513) 281-6700 Website: http://bulldogdirect.com .
BULLETS:
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/ammo.asp
SPOTTING SCOPES, TELESCOPES
For a great place to buy binoculars, spotting scopes, telescopes, and accessories, try Eagle Optics at www.eagleoptics.com or call 1-800-289-1132
SOUND PROOFING FINGER FOAM (for Underground Shooting Ranges)
SONEX by Ilbruck Inc, 3800 Washington Ave North Minneapolis, Mn 55412. Tel (612) 521-3555. Website: http://www.sonexfoam.com/
GATE OPENERS
The latest technology uses hydraulic actuators instead of gear motors.
STANLEY full range of residential and commerical gates and opening types (available nationwide) call 1-800-STANLEY for distributor info.
Mighty-Mule Gate Openers: GTO Inc. 738 Capital Circle NW, Tallahassee, Fl. 32304 Tel: 1-800-543-4283.
ROLLING SECURITY SHUTTERS
ALL SEASON ROLLING SHUTTERS: These people have the best Reinforced PVC product on the market now. http://www.allseasonshutters.com/
Roll-A-Way offers rolling or accordian shutters in Aluminum, PVC, or clear Lexan. email: info@roll-a-way.com Rollaway National Headquarters 10601 Oak Street NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33716 Tel: (800) 683-3230 (888) ROLLAWAY.
Rolsafe URL: www.rolsafe.com/ 5845 Corporation Circle Fort Myers, FL, 33905 Tel: (941) 694-5400 Fax: (941) 694-8000 Toll Free: 1 800 833-5486
SECURITY SYSTEMS
GE SECURITY PRO:
Security Pro 6000 (Another ITI company for wireless or hardwired connections) URL: http://www.gesecuritypro.com/NorthAmerica/residential/product.cfm?ProdID=5&ptID=1 .
The Security Pro® 6000 can deliver as much security as you want. It starts out as an attractive entry-level system, but its unique design lets you upgrade it easily--at your pace--so you never have to pay for more system than you want. Add powerful options like wireless sensors that check their own operation so you always know whether the system is working properly. Add light control for added security and convenience. Add telephone control for remote operation, audio verification for false-alarm prevention. Add the peace of mind of numeric paging in emergencies and you'll see what makes the Pro 6000 one of the most valuable additions to any home or business.
HONEYWELL: Used to be APEX (hardwired) Advantage has the latest in voice prompting technology (voice tells you where intrusion is). It also has numerous control features included which allow you to control lights and equipment automatically. See the 6100 or 6100-wt Security panels at URL http://www.security.honeywell.com/hsce/products/control/bu/ap/11796.html .
ADT Pro Custom: (hardwired or wireless) ADT is the largest national chain of alarm systems. The ProCustom system has most of the features that the Honeywell/Apex system has, including voice annunciation and being able to check the whole house from any master keypad. 1-800-238-3009 or www.adt.com. Check out the entire listing and description of all the different types of security devices you can order: http://www.adt.com/resi/products_services/browse_system_components/component/?subCategory=71&categoryId=71
RETARDANT SPRAY
Sprays for shingles, wood siding, cardboard - almost everything. Water-based, non-toxic, safe.
Flame Stop: http://flamestop.com/?source=google
Cold Fire: http://middlebury.net/coldfire/
Flame Seal Products Inc. 4025 Willowbend Blvd. #310, Houston, TX 77025 Tel: 713 668 4291 URL: www.flameseal.com .
SECURITY COMPONENTS, MAIL ORDER
Mountain West Supply Co. 9405 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, #B234, Scottsdale, AZ 85258 local Tel: 602-971-1200 Toll Free: 1-800-528-6169.
Security Base.com www.securitybase.com .
INTERCOMS with Cameras
NUTONE get their top of the line unit, with remote listen in, plus up to 10 cameras. http://www.nutone.com/product-category.asp?CategoryID=701
VEHICLE ALARM SYSTEM Add-on type
Mobile Alert Vehicle Security System: Radio Shack.
Optima II (monitors vehicle electric system for any turn on, or motion ) from a variety of online sources. Sample: http://www.guarddog.net/aalarm.htm .
HIDDEN VIDEO CAMERAS
Security Base Phone: 1-800-616-0213 URL: www.securitybase.com (has the widest selection of covert video cameras. Look under "CCTV").
VIDEO MOTION DETECTION
Quark manufactures a complete line of Video Motion Detectors, from lower resolution (generally indoor use) 8, 12, and 18 channel devices (the Q-line) to enhanced 4 & 8-channel unit (the ESP-line) to the NET-line of 4 & 8 channel high resolution devices. URL: www.quarkdigital.com 1 800 327 5616.
DTS-1000 A more expensive commercial lineup of equipment to allow computers to detection intrusion and motion from a video surveillance camera. Website: http://www.magal-ssl.com/products/?pid=22
MICROWAVE FENCE AND PERIMETER DETECTION
SouthWest Microwave http://www.southwestmicrowave.com , Tempe, Arizona. INTREPID system - uses coax cable and sensor to detect any vibration (3 yards accuracy) on fence from climbing. Their MICRONET system is even more accurate and displays to a computer screen with map of your property layout.
SAFES
LIBERTY SAFE CO Builds gun safes and vault doors for home installation. Springville, Utah (801) 489 8550 (also builds National and Remington brand safes). http://www.libertysafe.com/ Cheaper alternative for a vault door is from HOMELAND SECURITY SAFE: http://www.homelandsafes.com/EconomyVaultDoor.php
FLOOR SAFES
Hayman Safes (Website: www.haymansafe.com )
Adesco Floor Safes (Website www.adesco.com )
SURVEILLANCE AND ANTI-SURVELLANCE EQUIPMENT:
Electromax International Inc. 11140 Westheimer, #276, Houston, Texas 77042 Tel: (281) 531-7437. Check out the full range of high-tech equipment available for surveillance and for counter-surveillance work. http://www.electromax.com/indexreg.html .
DRIVEWAY MONITORS
DWA-3 Suitable for burying beside driveway - so you won't have to dig up asphalt or concrete drive. ($200) URL: www.drivewayalarms.com .
GARAGE DOOR OPENER ENCRYPTION
These systems rotate the codes on your door openers so they cannot be reused by a burglar who uses a special electronic eavesdropper to record your code. All new garage door openers come with this system built-in. Code Encrypter Plus, or Code Encrypter II, by RCI Automation, (619) 484-6307 URL: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/rciautomation/p4.htm .
STRESS FLOOR DETECTORS
Pressure sensors for use under flooring or roofs or under decks of boats for marine security.
PULSORS (8000 series) by Sure Action, Inc URL: www.sureaction.com .
GPS VEHICLE LOCATORS
To protect against auto theft or carjacking and kidnapping in your own vehicle. Small transmitter is hidden in vehicle which allows a GPS signal to alert a North American tracking company of the vehicle location.
Aertrax Vehicle Locator Address: AerComTec International, 1359 Silver Bluff Rd., Suite G-5, Aiken, South Carolina 29803 Tel: (803) 649-2900. Available from many sites online: Sample: http://www.spysupplystore.com/aertrax.html
ROOM FOGGER
Smoke Cloak fogs the room in seconds with a dense, non-toxic glycerin-based fog that dissipates with no residue. This is an excellent passive defense against mobs or vandals entering the home. Smokecloak Ltd., 10 Cochran Close, Crownhill, Milton Keynes, MK8 0AJ, ENGLAND Phone : 44 (0) 1908 567007 URL www.smokecloak.com Email: sales@smokecloak.com.
HIGH SECURITY DEAD BOLTS
Medeco: Has special pins and key that rotates the lock tumbler pins to prevent picking
URL: www.medeco.com (Available at Locksmiths everywhere).
Assa 6000 pickproof, double-keyed, drill resistanct deadbolt (at locksmiths nationwide).
ELECTRIC DOOR STRIKES
Von Duprin Company, Strike Force electric latches. http://www.vonduprin.com/prod_strikeforce.asp
BRONZE PIVOT BEARINGS
For concealed pivoting cabinet (about $3 for a set of two). All major cities have bearing specialty shops. Check the phone book. Ask for oil-impregnated brass or bronze bushings.
ARMORED CAR CONVERSIONS
Alpine Armoring Inc. 503 Carlisle Drive, Herndon, Virginia 20170 Tel: 703-471-0002 or 1-800-992-7667 http://www.alpineco.com/armored/vehicles.htm .
Bulldog Direct: Your do-it-yourself source. Armored Vehicle Kits. Armored vehicle kits
provide N.I.J. level IIIA hand gun protection from: 9 mm, .357 mag., .44 mag., and higher. Each
armor kit comes with installation instructions. Bulldog Direct, P.O. Box 8561, Cincinnati, Ohio,
U.S.A., 45208-8561 Tel: (513) -281-6700
URL: www.bulldogdirect.com .
PRIVATE ENCRYPTION SOFTWARE FOR COMPUTERS
Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) Learn all about it from URL: www.pgp.com.
HEARING AMPLIFICATION MUFFS
WOLF EARS: These specialty ear muffs will not only amplify small sounds, but they will attenuate loud sounds so that everything comes within your hearing comfort range. These are a must for combat shooting when you want ear protection but not so much as to keep you from detecting intrusions. These are very high tech. Here is the online source list: http://www.derry.gentexcorp.com/hearing-resellers.htm
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
For complete installation of full system, contact www.beselfreliant.com or www.abrahamsolar.com
PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANELS
Abraham Solar 1-800-222-7242. New and Used.
POLE MOUNTED SUN TRACKING EQUIPMENT (OPTIONAL)
Wattsun Sun Tracker (for a pole-mounted, tilting rack for solar panels to track sun) Abraham Solar 800-222-7242.
Zomeworks pole mount trackers, P.O. Box, Albuquerque, NM 25805, Telephone: (505) 242-5354 also from Abraham Solar 800-222-7242.
ROOF MOUNTED PANEL RACKS (rotating racks for roof mounting)
Zomeworks Albuquerque NM P.O. Box 25805, Tel: (505) 242-5354 or Abraham Solar.
A. For slanted roof mount: Order 2 drive axles, and one slave axle.
B. For Pole mount, 12 panels. Order 8612 unit - rack only, not the sun tracker.
Direct Power Fixed rack for direct roof mount: (2) six panel racks from Abraham Solar.
SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLERS
When not using the more expensive XANTREX/TRACE power center option, try the following alternatives from Abraham Solar 800-222-7242.
A. Sun Selector NDR-30 CD-EMP(30 amp capacity with power divert). There are other models available depending on system size.
B. Sun Selector M-16 (16 amp capacity with no automatic power diversion) for small systems.
SOLAR WATER PUMPS from Abraham Solar
Coenergy and Aerovironment provide turn-key pumping systems. Check with Mick Abraham and Abraham solar. 800-222-7242
Individual pumps as follows:
SolarJack SCS Submersible Centrifugal Pumps - expensive submersibles down to 800 feet deep, performance comparable to small conventional pumps.
Powerlifter 1000
Shurflow or Flowjet pumps for lower cost pumps.
Slowpumps are medium-priced pumps that pump high vertical distances with low power, and low, steady output. Good for domestic water.
Dankoff Solar Surface Pumps - non-submersible centrifugal pumps for irrigation, using a small length of suction hose to draw from a creek or pond.
Highlifter Ram type pump. Use where you have no power source other than a stream. Will pump water between 400 and 1,000 high, depending on model. Volume is low, but steady. Very reliable.
SOLAR DESALINATORS
AGUA DEL SOL Agua Del Sol, PO Box 1114, Pima, AZ 85543 Tel: (520) 485-9211 (www.mrsolar.com ) Prices: $650-$850 output 1-3 gallons per day (panels 4, 6, or 8 ft long x 36" wide).
PUR (Recovery Engineering) Models: Survivor 35 (manual).2115 (smaller liferaft model), PowerSurvivor 40E, Recovery Engineering, Inc. 2229 Edgewood Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55426 Tel: 800-845-7873 local: 612-541-1313. Sample seller: http://www.seakayak.ws/kayak/kayak.nsf/NavigationList/NT0000BE3E
Sea Recovery Marine desalinators for boats Crystal Sea 12v or 24v or 110v models P.O. Box 2560 Gardena, California 90247-0560 Tel: 1-310-637-3400 Website: www.searecovery.com .
SOLAR WATER HEATERS
Progressivtube: PO Box 3887, Sarasota, Fl 34230 Tel: (941) 953-2177 http://www.solardirect.com/swh/pt/pt1/why_progressivTube/why_progressivtube.htm or Abraham Solar Equipment.
Solahart USA Self contained storage tank, easy to install. Solahart 939 South, 48th Street #207, Tempe, AZ 85281 Tel: 602-967-6785, 800-233-7652. http://www.solahart.com/default.asp?V_DOC_ID=1
Solar Works, Inc. Roof mounted panel systems--large http://www.solar-works.com/ 64 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 Tel: 802-223-7804 or 800-339-7804 (VT).
EVACUATED TUBE COLLECTORS (The best, and most high-tech)
Thermomax Evacuated Tube Collectors: 5560 Sterrett Place, Suite 115, Columbia, MD 21044 Tel: (410) 997-0778 URL: www.thermomax.com . This company has wide experience in joining a solar water heating system with a wood heating backup system into a hydronic floor-heated home.
SOLAR WATER PURIFIER
Sol*Saver Solar Water Pasteurizer Safe Water Systems 2800 Woodlawn Drive, Suite 131, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822 Tel: 808-539-3937 website: www.safewatersystems.com (they also have a wood burning water purifier).
SUN POWERED COOLING
Solar Powered Evaporative Coolers: "Solar Chill" by PB solar Solacool by Advantage Solar: http://www.advantagesolar.com/solacool.htm
SOLARIUM, ADD-ON GREENHOUSES
Durango Solariums, Durango Co, (970) 385-4561. There are similar custom solarium builders in every major city. http://durangosolariums.com/welcome.php
SOLAR GREENHOUSE VENT OPENERS
Thermofor, http://www.greenhouses-etc.net/equipment/solar_vents.htm
Bayless Mk-7 or XL from A Gardener's Resource, P. O. Box 85072, Tucson, Arizona 85754 Tel: (520) 792-8023 URL: www.greenhousesupplies.com .
SOLAR FANS, BLOWERS, COOLERS
The Sustainable Village: http://www.thesustainablevillage.com/products/display.do
SURVIVAL EQUIPMENT
SEVERE COLD WEATHER CLOTHING
PALS SYSTEM --the very best in extreme cold weather clothing. Available in economical kits or ready-made suits (you add the outer shell by buying high quality Goretex outerwear. contact: PST (Preparedness and Survival Training Institute) in Utah at (801) 785-6027. Ask for the Inner Thermal Lining Kits. They also have a complete series of preparedness training videos on the clothing system and all other aspects of survival. Excellent. Jim Phillip's website is www.jimsway.com
TOOLS
Harbor Freight Tools: Deep discounted tools, quality is not the best, but improving every year--mostly Chinese or Taiwanese. Retail stores in all western States plus Lexington, Kentucky. Info: www.harborfreight.com . Call for printed catalog, 1-800- 423-2567.
TRANSPORTATION EQUIPMENT
ELECTRIC BICYCLES
Plans to Convert a Mountain Bike: $29 from Bill Gerosa, Convergence Tech., Inc., 12-6 Foxwood Drive, Pleasantville, NY 10570 Website: www.econvergence.net/emb.htm Tel: 914-773-6749
ZAP Power System: add-on package to motorize a mountain bike. Can still pedal with this system. ZAP SX Rear Range 15 miles with SX and 8 miles with DX. Has regenerative charging of battery while going downhill and pedalling. Can buy their "Electric Cruiser" bicycle ready and a ready made mountain bike. http://www.zapworld.com/ProductDetail.aspx?id=1500
Charger Bicycles: Electric bike designed from ground up with the latest innovative technology - multi option pedal assist system, dual chain, 20 mile range. http://www.electric-bikes.com/charger.htm
US Pro Drive (Currie Technology - used in Schwinn Bikes) Van Nuys, CA 91406 Tel: (818) 947-0366. Here's a direct-drive adaptive system with a variable speed controller. The direct drive system mounts on the rear hub of most 26" bicycles and weighs 6 lbs. The battery shell locks. Most people change out the awkward thumb throttle to a twist grip type http://etxcur.accpaconline.com/izipbikepage.html
EV Rider, Inc., 1060 Commerce Boulevard, North, Sarasota, Florida 34243 USA Toll-Free: 888-RIDEREV(743-3738) Fax: 941-351-2699, http://www.evrider.com . Mostly electric powered wheeled carts, but also have a folding electric bike: http://www.evrider.com/folding_bikw.htm
Electrobike, Inc. Ready to go bike with 20 mile range: http://www.electrobike.com/html/pro_jazz.html
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CONVERSIONS
This is the most economical way to get an electric vehicle. Convert a pickup or van to electric use with batteries and solar panels and have a short-range, reliable commute vehicle when gas becomes unavailable. Maximum range is typically 40 miles. The most experienced one stop shop for all necessary items is ELECTRO AUTOMOTIVE in California: www.electroauto.com or P.O. Box 1113, Felton Ca 95018-1113.
MILITEC-1 DRY LUBE FOR WEAPONS
MILITEC-1 OIL ADDITIVE
I think this is the best oil additive for all types of engines/transmissions - proven to double the life of an engine: 16 Oz bottle (Half a bottle added to engine oil every 15,000 miles) http://www.militec1.com/
REDLINE OIL PRODUCTS
REDLINE Simply the best racing oils available. Too expensive for me, since I use Militec-1 anyway, I don't feel I need the pricy oil. But I do use their transmission fluids. In a long term crisis, I want the longest life out of the transmission, and these special fluids have proven to be at least twice as good as normal hypoid oil. These are products primarily for manual transmission and differentials. I use 2 oz of Militec-1 in automatic transmission for protection. http://www.redlineoil.com/ Available online all over the www.
HIGH PERFORMANCE OIL FILTERS
AMSOIL http://www.amsoil.com/prod.html MSOIL INC. AMSOIL Building, Superior, Wisconsin 54880 Phone: (715) 392-7101. Amsoil makes a full range of very high performance synthetic oils and the best oil filter systems around.
WATER PURIFICATION/FILTERING EQUIPMENT
OXYGEN BASED WATER PURIFIERS
Aerobic K07 potassium based water purifier (about $20 each retail, local health food stores) Only buy the potassium based liquid with the "K" http://www.aerobiclife.com/
WATER FILTERS
Aquasana Uses high tech filters, low replacement price, lasts longest. Also, shower filters and multiple installation choices. best price: http://www.aquasana.com/catalog.cfm
Big Blue 20" is the best type of whole house filter. Has UV sterilization as well. Good prices at http://www.purewaterexpress.com/
WEAPONS
BOWIE KNIFE: Western Cutlery 9-1/2" blade Available at local knife shops that carry Western Cutlery products. Here's a pic: http://www.afterknife.com/western-cutlery-ww49-western-bowie-knife-95-in-p-454354050.html
MAG-NA-PORT ARMS - recoil reduction mod to weapons. 41302 Executive Dr., Mt. Clemens, MI 48045 Tel: 1-313-469-6727. http://www.magnaport.com/company.html
MAG-SAFE AMMO: Special penetrating shotgun type ammo for auto weapons. Awesome and deadly stuff. http://www.magsafeonline.com/
TRITICON glowing night sights: Armson, 1-313-553-4960. http://armson1.stores.yahoo.net/
DILLON Reloading Press: best of the progressive reloading presses. http://www.dillonprecision.com/ .
SILENT .22 AMMO: CCI brand .ww CB CAP cartridges - at most gun shops.
Williams Trigger Specialties - smooth trigger mods RR 1, Box 26-G, White Heath, Il 61884, Tel: 1-217-762-7377. http://www.soldierstuff.com/wts/
WATER POWER
LARGE HYDRO-ELECTRIC SYSTEMS
Hydro West Group, Inc. Manufacturer, service, large hydro-powered electric generators, complete system design ( 50 kW), microhydro electric generators, hydro energy components, hydro turbines. Address: 1422 130th Avenue N.E., Bellevue, WA 98166 Telephone: (425) 455-0234Web Site: http://hydrowest.com/ ,
American Hydro Corporation For big projects. Custom design and manufactured upgrades for existing hydroturbines to boost output by 10 to 50%. Service : system design and installation. http://www.ahydro.com/
MEDIUM-SIZED HYDRO
Canyon Industries, Inc. Builds and engineers pelton and cross-flow turbines for medium head hydro conditions. Good hands-on experience. Call Dan New (360) 592-5552. P O Box 574 HP, Deming, WA 98244. URL: http://www.canyonhydro.com/
MICRO-HYDRO
Harris Pelton Turbines High head turbines (200-600 vertical feet of drop) 2, 3 or 4, nozzle designs. Abraham Solar Equipment.
Turgo Pelton Wheels - slightly better than Harris units: from Abraham Solar Equipment.
WIND POWER
WIND GENERATORS
Best of the Small Windchargers:
AIR 403- costs about $550 for the new 400 watt machine (installation is cheap and easy because this system is so small and portable). Abraham Solar 1-800-222-4727 or http://www.etaengineering.com/windpower/air_x_vs_403.shtml
Best of the Medium sized Windchargers:
WHISPER Corp. builds excellent units from 600 watts to 4500 watts - cost all below $2.00 a watt. Widely available online. Sample: http://www.advancepower.net/wind.htm
WINDMILLS FOR WATER WELLS
Dean Bennett Supply (many types) Toll Free: 800-621-4291. http://www.deanbennett.com/
Aeromotor: http://www.aermotorwindmill.com/Index.asp
