Built in Kelowna, BC · CSA Approved

Battery Backup Systems for Security Shutters

Keep your security shutters operational during any power outage or emergency. Custom-built, industrial-grade, and code-compliant. Made right here in the Okanagan.

The Basics

What Is a Shutter Battery Backup?

A shutter battery backup is a complete enclosure and control system designed to provide backup power and the necessary controls. It interlinks for the operation of one or more security shutters, ensuring they function exactly when you need them most.

Your security shutters are only as reliable as the power supply behind them. In an emergency, whether a fire, a power failure, or a cut utility line, your shutters need to operate independently of the building’s main power supply. That’s where our battery backup system comes in.

Cities and provincial governments across BC and Alberta are increasingly requiring battery backup systems for commercial security shutters. The core requirement: shutters must be able to rise in the event of a fire or emergency, even when power has been cut, so occupants can safely exit.

Our systems meet and exceed all applicable electrical codes and are custom-built to your specific installation. Every component is CSA-approved and assembled right here in Kelowna, BC.

6-7h
Battery Standby Time

Industrial UPS backup power vs. 2-3 hours from cheaper units.

5yr
Extended Service Interval

Typically serviced once every five years, not every year like budget alternatives.

1yr
Manufacturer Warranty

Longer UPS warranty than most competitors, who often offer only three months.

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Why It Matters

Why Do I Need a Battery Backup?

Battery backup systems serve two critical roles: keeping people safe in emergencies, and keeping your business secure during power outages.

Code Compliance & Safety

Cities across BC and Alberta now require battery backup systems on commercial security shutters. Shutters must be able to open even when building power is cut, so people can get out safely in a fire or emergency.

Power Outage Protection

When fire crews arrive on scene, cutting power to the building is standard procedure. Fires themselves also frequently damage electrical systems. Our battery ensures your shutters still operate no matter what.

Security During Outages

Don't let a power outage mean an open door. Close your shutters, send employees home, and trust that your business stays locked and protected for 6–7 hours, even with the power off. No one can simply cut power to bypass your security.

Peace of Mind Always

Our system runs a self-diagnostic weekly and alerts you proactively if anything needs attention, long before an actual emergency exposes a problem. Cheaper systems fail silently and only reveal the issue when you need them most.

Emergency Response

How the System Works in an Emergency

Four built-in safeguards help your shutters respond when power, smoke, or emergency conditions put exits at risk.

SAFETY

Illuminated Panic Button

A self-illuminated button is installed near every shutter. Even in darkness or smoke, the green glow is instantly visible. Press it, and the shutter rises immediately.

DETECTION

Fire & Smoke Detection

We integrate with existing fire alarm systems or install localized smoke detectors near the shutter. The moment smoke or fire is detected, the shutter automatically rises.

BACKUP

Battery Backup Power

If main power is cut, our industrial UPS takes over immediately with zero interruption. The shutter has power for 6-7 hours, ensuring safe exit and continued protection.

RECOVERY

Self-Restart After Outage

When the power comes back on, our system restarts automatically once it has enough charge. No service call required.

What Happens When Power Fails

01

Power Cut

Fire, outage, or utility shutdown interrupts main power.

02

UPS Takes Over

Backup power keeps controls active without a manual restart.

03

Shutters Operate

Shutters can rise for safe exit or stay active for protection.

04

System Recovers

When power returns, the system recharges and comes back online.

Here’s how those safeguards work together in a real outage or emergency.

What's Inside

What Goes Into Our Battery Backup System

Every unit is hand-assembled in Kelowna using the same components found in heavy industrial applications, like mines or forestry equipment, built to run for decades.

CSA-Approved Enclosure

Weather-rated, insect-resistant, and durable enough for both interior ceiling installations and exterior mounting. Meets all applicable electrical codes. Clean and unobtrusive, and fits in T-bar ceilings out of sight.

Industrial UPS

Not a standard consumer battery. Our UPS is a smart inverter-charger with control software and hardware that automatically manages charge rate, monitors battery health, and handles the large inrush current that motors require at startup -something cheap UPS units catastrophically fail at.

Low-Voltage DC Power Supply

Converts the UPS output to safe low-voltage DC current that powers all relays, panic buttons, status lighting, and control systems. Keeps everything operating cleanly and safely.

Fire Alarm Integration Relays

Specialized isolation relays that allow our system to communicate with your existing fire alarm system, or our own localized detection, without interference. Compatible with different fire alarm voltage specifications found across building types.

Illuminated Panic Button

A high-security, self-illuminated emergency button that glows in the dark. Highly visible even in smoky, low-light conditions. Available with multiple illumination levels and functional configurations. So recognizable that the City of Kelowna waived their exit signage requirement upon seeing ours.

10-Year Battery Smoke Alarms

No more annual battery changes or midnight chirping. When we install our own localized detection, we use 10-year sealed smoke alarms. Replacing one down the road? A trip to your local hardware store is all it takes.

How We Compare

Our Units vs. Cheaper Alternatives

Not all battery backup systems are equal. Here’s what separates an industrial-grade Shutters and Shade unit from budget or off-the-shelf alternatives.

Shutters and Shade Cheap / Generic Unit
Battery Standby Duration ✓ 6-7 hours ✕ 2-3 hours
Self-Restart After Drain ✓ Automatic — comes back online when charged ✕ Stays off until manually restarted on-site
Motor Inrush Current Handling ✓ Designed for motor loads with high startup draw ✕ Often fails catastrophically under motor startup
Battery Failure Mode ✓ Active fail: shutter stops working immediately ✕ Silent fail: you discover the problem in an emergency
Self-Diagnostics ✓ Weekly self-test, audible alert if issue found ✕ None — no warning before failure
Recommended Service Interval ✓ Once every 5 years ✕ Once a year or more
Battery Replaceability ✓ Serviceable — new cells restore full function for 5-10 more years ✕ Often non-serviceable; full replacement required
Manufacturer Warranty ✓ 1 year, longest available ✕ Typically 3 months
CSA Approved Components ✓ All components CSA approved ✕ Often uncertified imported components
Customizable ✓ Fully custom per installation ✕ Generic one-size-fits-all
Optional Add-Ons

Customize Your System

Because every building is different, our battery backup systems are custom-built to your requirements. Common add-ons include:

Key Fob / Access Control Integration

We integrate with existing building fob systems so a single swipe raises the shutter and opens the door. Shutters can also be set to automatically come down behind you. No extra remotes, no extra steps.

Wireless Control Integration

Prefer no wiring? We've integrated our systems with both our own wireless controls and third-party wireless systems, so you can walk up and open your shutter without fumbling for a key, fob, or remote.

Automatic Open/Close on Outage

Want your shutters to automatically raise during a power outage? We can program that. Want them to automatically close and secure? We can do that too. Each unit is programmed to your operational preferences.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about shutter battery backup systems.

UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply, a device that takes power in and provides continuous power out without any interruption. When your building’s power is cut, a UPS switches to battery power instantly. Security shutter motors require a specialized industrial UPS because they draw a very large amount of current at startup, more than standard consumer UPS units are designed to handle.

Our industrial UPS provides 6-7 hours of standby power, depending on the number of extra features like panic buttons and control systems. By comparison, most budget UPS units only offer 2-3 hours. After that 6-7 hours, the shutter stops working, a clear signal the battery needs attention, rather than silently failing like cheaper units do.

Our UPS is self-restarting. Once mains power is restored and the battery has charged to a minimum threshold, the system comes back online automatically, no service call needed. Cheap units stay off after a drain and require someone to physically come in and restart them, which can be an expensive service call just to push a button.

Our UPS runs a self-diagnostic approximately once a week and also after any significant power outage. If it detects a problem, it emits an audible beep. If the battery deteriorates to the point of failure, the system actively shuts down, making it obvious that service is required, rather than leaving you to find out the hard way.

Every battery backup system is built by hand right here in Kelowna, BC. All components are CSA approved and of the same industrial grade used in mines and forestry equipment, designed to operate for decades. These are not off-the-shelf products assembled overseas; they’re custom-built to your specific installation.

We offer a base unit built around a more affordable UPS for clients on tight budgets. These function adequately for a period of time, but carry more risk of service calls down the road due to lower reliability under motor loads. We’ll always be transparent about the trade-offs so you can make the right decision for your situation.

It depends on your location and application. Most of Alberta is now requiring battery backup systems for commercial security shutters. Requirements are increasingly common across BC as well. Even where not yet mandated, they are strongly recommended for any commercial shutter installation. We can advise you on what your local requirements are.

Our system is designed as an “active fail” device. When the battery fails, it stops sending power, which means the shutter will stop working. This is intentional: a shutter that won’t close or open is an immediately obvious sign that maintenance is needed, so you can get it fixed before an emergency. Cheaper units fail silently, meaning you may only discover the problem when you’re in a burning building and the shutter won’t go up.

Yes. We use specialized isolation relays that allow our system to interface with your existing fire alarm, without causing interference or false alarms. Different fire alarm systems use different voltages, and our relays are compatible across the range typically found in commercial buildings. We can also install our own localized smoke and fire detection if needed.

Yes. We coordinate with your existing access control provider to integrate fob-based control of your shutters. A single swipe can raise the shutter and open the door. You can also set the shutter to automatically close behind you. Wireless integration options are also available for keyless entry.

For typical usage (one or two shutter cycles per day), our units generally need servicing once every five years. Cheap battery systems typically require annual service due to their lower reliability under motor loads. When our battery does eventually reach end of life, only the battery cells need replacing, not the entire unit, giving you another 5-10 years of service at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

Yes. We ship our battery backup units anywhere in the world. Shipping cost is calculated based on destination. Contact us for a quote if you’re outside the Okanagan, and we’ll figure out the best option for you.

UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply, a device that takes power in and provides continuous power out without any interruption. When your building’s power is cut, a UPS switches to battery power instantly. Security shutter motors require a specialized industrial UPS because they draw a very large amount of current at startup, more than standard consumer UPS units are designed to handle.

It depends on your location and application. Most of Alberta is now requiring battery backup systems for commercial security shutters. Requirements are increasingly common across BC as well. Even where not yet mandated, they are strongly recommended for any commercial shutter installation. We can advise you on what your local requirements are.

Our industrial UPS provides 6-7 hours of standby power, depending on the number of extra features like panic buttons and control systems. By comparison, most budget UPS units only offer 2-3 hours. After that 6-7 hours, the shutter stops working, a clear signal the battery needs attention, rather than silently failing like cheaper units do.

Our system is designed as an “active fail” device. When the battery fails, it stops sending power, which means the shutter will stop working. This is intentional: a shutter that won’t close or open is an immediately obvious sign that maintenance is needed, so you can get it fixed before an emergency. Cheaper units fail silently, meaning you may only discover the problem when you’re in a burning building and the shutter won’t go up.

Our UPS is self-restarting. Once mains power is restored and the battery has charged to a minimum threshold, the system comes back online automatically, no service call needed. Cheap units stay off after a drain and require someone to physically come in and restart them, which can be an expensive service call just to push a button.

Yes. We use specialized isolation relays that allow our system to interface with your existing fire alarm, without causing interference or false alarms. Different fire alarm systems use different voltages, and our relays are compatible across the range typically found in commercial buildings. We can also install our own localized smoke and fire detection if needed.

Our UPS runs a self-diagnostic approximately once a week and also after any significant power outage. If it detects a problem, it emits an audible beep. If the battery deteriorates to the point of failure, the system actively shuts down, making it obvious that service is required, rather than leaving you to find out the hard way.

Yes. We coordinate with your existing access control provider to integrate fob-based control of your shutters. A single swipe can raise the shutter and open the door. You can also set the shutter to automatically close behind you. Wireless integration options are also available for keyless entry.

Every battery backup system is built by hand right here in Kelowna, BC. All components are CSA approved and of the same industrial grade used in mines and forestry equipment, designed to operate for decades. These are not off-the-shelf products assembled overseas; they’re custom-built to your specific installation.

For typical usage (one or two shutter cycles per day), our units generally need servicing once every five years. Cheap battery systems typically require annual service due to their lower reliability under motor loads. When our battery does eventually reach end of life, only the battery cells need replacing, not the entire unit, giving you another 5-10 years of service at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

We offer a base unit built around a more affordable UPS for clients on tight budgets. These function adequately for a period of time, but carry more risk of service calls down the road due to lower reliability under motor loads. We’ll always be transparent about the trade-offs so you can make the right decision for your situation.

Yes. We ship our battery backup units anywhere in the world. Shipping cost is calculated based on destination. Contact us for a quote if you’re outside the Okanagan, and we’ll figure out the best option for you.

Protected with battery backup

Rated 5 out of 5
Thank you so very much. The install on my new roll shutter was smooth and efficient. You worked around my shops business hours, so I had no loss of revenue. I am able to sleep again with a renewed sense of security. That wall is a Beautiful thing.
Wes and Christian are both so personable and professional. We'll definitely be recommending you to others and when we renovate our residence, you'll get the call.
Deb Reukema
Rated 5 out of 5
My husband Jason and I couldn't be happier with our automatic outdoor sun shades. We would highly recommend Shutters and Shade to anyone that needs relief from the sun inside or outside their home. The ease and functionality of the shades are so amazing. We would not think twice about installing them again on our next project. We've built 2 homes in the past 4 years and Wes was one of the best people we have had the opportunity to work with. Thank you Wes for making this part of the home building experience a great one!
Karen Mongrain
Rated 5 out of 5
We LOVE our sun shades! We now have 6 shades; 5 are operated by remote and one is operated manually. They are of high quality and function as we had hoped. The team led by Wes is amazing.
They are friendly, knowledgeable, responsive, and professional. I would highly recommend Shutters and Shade.
Sandra Charleston
Rated 5 out of 5
I have been trying for three years to find a solution to give me more privacy on my balcony. Shutters and Shade was the perfect solution. Wes installed a custom-made privacy screen and I couldn't be more pleased! He is professional, knowledgeable and helpful, and the product is top quality. I'm a very happy customer.
Catherine Hein

Ready to Protect Your Business?

Get a free, no-obligation quote for a custom battery backup system built to your exact specifications, right here in Kelowna.