Modern double-glazed windows are undoubtedly a wonderful invention of mankind. They are much more convenient to use than old wooden ones, it is easier to care for them, they do not need regular refurbishment. And the winter mode of the plastic window allows you to block access to cold air from the street. Therefore, with such double-glazed windows it becomes more comfortable to live in an apartment, and it is easier to maintain order. Just do not forget that plastic windows are a fairly complex engineering system that requires careful and careful attitude.
Types of double-glazed windows
Just say: summer and winter plastic windows are not on all systems. Its presence is due to the complexity of the hardware, which, accordingly, affects the cost of the window. So in the cheapest options, the modes do not change. Conventionally, double-glazed windows can be divided into three categories.
- Budget windows. Lowest price and minimum features. Most often put in new buildings - and almost immediately change the owners upon arrival. You can not look for information on how to adjust plastic windows for winter mode: it is simply not provided for in the "budget". They can only open and close; in many there is no even the possibility of opening for ventilation.
- Standard double-glazed windows. Middle price segment; in 90 percent of the windows of all manufacturers seasonal regimes are present.
- Windows with specialized fittings (for example, anti-burglary) or additional glass functions - sun protection, with enhanced thermal insulation, etc. Here, summer and winter mode of plastic windows are provided without fail.
In the event that you bought an apartment with double-glazed windows already installed and do not know if the regimes are changing in it, pay attention to the trunnions. On them there should be cuts for the tool - a hex key, an ordinary screwdriver or an asterisk. If the trunnion is not a nut, but with an oval eccentric, the double-glazed window is precisely switchable.
When to translate?
It is impossible to specify the exact time period when it is required to establish the winter regime of the plastic window: it depends on the region of your residence, and on the moment of the onset of cold weather. You can determine the moment of translation tactilely: if a draft is felt along the perimeter of the sash, it is time to start manipulating. However, it is worth remembering that the winter mode of the plastic window significantly increases the pressure on the seals. In this regard, they wear out much faster. And replacing the rubber bands is not an expensive thing. Therefore, you need to follow two basic rules:
- After the retreat of cold weather, double-glazed windows will certainly be transferred to summer functioning.
- If the winter is mild or you live in the southern regions, it is better not to “switch” the windows.
If you forget what mode is set on your glass, do a simple check: insert a piece of paper and close the sash. If after closing the paper is removed without difficulty - the trunnion is in the summer position, if it is torn, we are dealing with reinforced.
Winter mode of plastic windows: setting hardware
To transfer a double-glazed window, it is required to adjust all available trunnions. Most of them (and in some systems - all) are on the opening sash. In the windows of small size eccentrics 2-3; the larger the glass packet, the more control pins. Each of them scrolls clockwise until it stops. If the trunnion is a nut, this will require the appropriate tool - a screwdriver or hexagon. If the eccentric is oval, its position is changed by pressing a flat screwdriver. When the transfer to the winter mode of the plastic window is completed, its quality is checked. First, the sash handle should rotate more tightly than before. Secondly, the experience already described with a sheet of paper is used.
If after reconfiguring the fittings the draft does not disappear, you need to make sure that all the trunnions are turned to the end. With proper adjustment, the penetration of air into the house is most likely caused by wear on the seal. However, do not overdo it much: excessive pressure can lead to damage to the fittings.
Additional preparation
Switching to a winter mode of a plastic window is not limited to setting trunnions. Loops and handles should be dripped with oil from a syringe. And it is better for these purposes to use specialized or machine, but not vegetable.
Seals should be lubricated with silicone rubber grease - this procedure will help them to transfer the additional pressure more easily.