Preparing windows for winter: one day for the longevity of a plastic window. How to switch plastic windows to winter mode Installing plastic windows to winter position
Plastic windows save from street noise, provide a comfortable air temperature for an apartment or a private house. Once installed, however, they require. Adjustment of locking mechanisms is needed every off-season - only then will the double-glazed windows fulfill the task assigned to them. Today's article will tell you how to switch windows to winter mode, for what it is needed when such actions are performed. Along the way, it is worth understanding the features of the locking mechanisms, the device, some of the nuances of functioning. Photo and video instructions will help us, explaining in detail the algorithm of the actions performed.
Let's make a reservation right away that with a lack of knowledge and experience, our editorial staff recommends contacting professionals in their field. Specialists of specialized firms will advise on all possible issues and offer the most profitable solutions to problems. Well, for those who still want to deal with this issue on their own - a little help.
Modern plastic windows are regulated by the clamping force of the sash in three modes:
- summer - the sash of the window is pressed weakly. This ensures the circulation of air in the room by realizing. The wear of the sealing gum is minimal;
- winter mode on plastic windows provides a tight hold. There is no air circulation, which ensures the preservation of heat in the dwelling. The load on the sealing gum is maximum;
- standard - the average position of the eccentrics (pins). More often installers leave the locking mechanisms in this position. The only difference is that professionals who value their reputation show the owner how to transfer double-glazed windows to winter or summer mode, and the negligent (of whom, unfortunately, the majority) do not bother themselves with explanations. Standard mode is for off-season.
Why switch modes of plastic windows
It is enough for 2-3 years not to switch the "winter-summer" mode on plastic windows, so that after, even with correct adjustments, it starts to blow from under the window sill or balcony door. Let's consider the problems that arise with incorrect settings.
The first is a violation of the indoor climate. Excessive condensation creates condensation on frames, glass units and walls, which leads to mold. "Summer" settings in winter lead to heat loss, it becomes necessary. The result is increased gas bills or.
Important! Using the winter position of plastic windows in the warm season will lead to rapid wear of the seals. The result is the futility of any subsequent adjustments. The way out is to replace the expensive rubber bands.
Switching modes of plastic windows: advantages and disadvantages
Disadvantages of window adjustment can occur only with the wrong actions of the home master. If everything is done correctly, switching modes will only be beneficial. Let's figure out in what cases it is justified.
Timely switching will extend the life of the windows, even if these actions have not been performed for some time. Drafts in the winter or dust in the summer are treated by switching the fittings to winter mode. Let not for long, but for a year or two it will be delayed. Sagging of the loops is eliminated in the same way. Replacing fittings is already an extreme measure.
Good to know! Incorrectly set modes can cause a window or door to jam separately in the ventilation position or together with the opening.
Determination of the possibility of changing the seasonal modes of plastic windows
Not all models of plastic windows have the ability to change modes. To understand if it is present on your double-glazed windows, you need to take a look at the shut-off valves. The eccentric, located in the middle, can be oval or in the center it will have a hole for an asterisk or hexagon. This indicates the presence of a winter regime on plastic windows. The photos below will help the reader understand this issue.
The algorithm of actions for adjusting windows with different pins is identical, but their position may differ. Let's try to understand in detail the types of eccentrics.
Forms of eccentrics and the nuances of transferring modes
After mounting, the oval trunnion is often located diagonally - this is the standard position, midway between winter and summer. The horizontal position indicates the winter mode, and the vertical position indicates the summer mode.
If the eccentric of the shut-off valves is round (for a hexagon), then its positions are as follows. Pushed out towards the street - winter, located in the center - standard, recessed towards the apartment - summer.
The third option is a round hexagon trunnion that does not move when turning. In this case, there is a risk on it, which indicates the correct position. To make it easier to understand, we suggest viewing the pictures on how to switch the windows to winter mode.
How to switch windows to winter mode: preparing double-glazed windows
Before you should make preparatory work. The first thing to do is to remove the grease from the components of the locking mechanism with a rag so that dirt and dust do not get inside during adjustment. After all the work performed, the mechanism is lubricated again.
Very important! The frame rubber seal should be treated before cold weather. You can do this with a lubricant (silicone or glycerin based), but it is better to use silicone spray, which is available at all hardware and automotive stores.
How and when are plastic windows switched to winter mode
Experts recommend transferring locking mechanisms from summer to winter only in extreme cases when drafts become sensitive. However, this is only suitable for warm climatic zones in Russia. Switching at the start of the heating season is optimal.
A fogged glass unit or a slight appearance of ice on it from the inside may also indicate the need for adjustment.
Helpful information! Before you switch windows to winter mode, you should carefully examine the rubber seal. Perhaps the sash fittings are correctly adjusted, and the seal is cracked or torn. In this case, it is imperative to replace it. Cheap seals can be purchased for one winter, but they do not pass more than the season.
Other adjustment options for plastic window frames
Having figured out how to switch windows to winter mode with a hexagon, screwdriver or pliers, you can move on to the rest. Indeed, over time, the frame can lead, and one side will fit more tightly than the other, which is unacceptable. This puts stress on the window fittings and contributes to the appearance of drafts.
The sash can be adjusted vertically and horizontally from the bottom hinge. Remove the protective plastic cover and find the screw with a hexagon hole located on top. By turning the screw clockwise, the frame will begin to lift. Turning counterclockwise, we lower the glass unit. In order to move the sash away from the frame or, on the contrary, install it closer, we use the screw located on the side at the bottom of the hinge.
Important! If all adjustments are made correctly, and draft problems have not disappeared, this indicates worn out seals, a factory defect in the frame or incorrect installation of the sashes. We check the sealing gum, and if they are normal, we file a claim with the installer. That is why it is important to make adjustments in the first year of operation - there remains the possibility of warranty repair, and sometimes replacement.
Article
Modern window systems, contrary to the opinion of ordinary people, require constant maintenance. Of course, they do not need to be sealed for the winter or painted every season as is the case with wooden counterparts.
For full-fledged functioning, plastic glass units must be switched to a mode corresponding to the season. How to self-adjust plastic windows for the winter? And how important is it?
Seasonal maintenance
The main feature of opening windows is that they have no vents. For better ventilation of the room, the system provides for rotating sashes. During the operation of plastic double-glazed windows, you can notice that a draft appears in the winter. Do not panic - this is not a manufacturing defect, but simply the seasonal regime is incorrectly set. Transfer of plastic windows to winter and summer modes is a mandatory maintenance procedure.
The swing-out mechanism of the double-glazed window must be adjusted depending on the season of the year
Drafts are also possible during long-term operation. This is due to the loosening of the hinge screws of the turn-lock mechanisms. By independently adjusting the windows for the winter, you can easily save 3-7 thousand rubles on calling specialists.
Leak test
How to prepare plastic windows for winter? With the onset of cold weather, it is necessary to conduct a preventive examination of the state of normal locking of the shutters in winter mode. The tightness can be checked in several ways:
- Tactile. By running your hand along the frame, you can identify the presence of severe drafts.
- Fire matches or lighters. Flame deviation from the vertical indicates the presence of blowing.
- A sheet of paper. They leave him in a closed sash and try to pull it out. If the sheet comes out easily, then the flap does not close tightly.
If the paper sheet is easy to pull out through the sash, then the window is leaky. Having identified the problem areas, they begin to regulate the system to the optimal requirements.
Winter / summer switching
When installing double-glazed windows, the installers set the initial neutral parameters for locking the doors. All positions will be tuned for optimal functionality. However, then it is necessary to adjust the settings - ideally at a frequency of 2 times a year.
Why is it needed
Seasonal adjustment is often forgotten by leaving the sash hold-down in the neutral position. As with any violation of the rules of operation, the consequences arise over time:
- drafts from under the sash even with correct installation adjustments;
- if the summer mode is set, then in winter this will not ensure sufficient pressure of the locking mechanism, which will cause heat loss from the room;
- if you leave the winter position, then due to the constant strong pressure of the sash on the seal, the latter will quickly become unusable;
- in the absence of seasonal adjustment, the normal microclimate of the room is disturbed, including the increase in humidity (there is a risk of condensation and mold).
Incorrect operation can lead to condensation on the glass For this, it is necessary to correctly set the winter and summer modes of plastic windows in the setting of the sashes.
Adjustment mechanisms
Before proceeding with the change of mode, it is necessary to determine the places in which the devices for adjustment are located. In most cases, the system provides for the presence of special mechanisms - pins, which, depending on their position, determine the degree of pressing the sash necessary for the season.
They are located at the ends of a metal-plastic window or door. The number of such mechanisms may vary depending on the size and manufacturer of the glass unit (from two or more).
Possible locations for eccentrics - different manufacturers have them in different places The trunnions may differ in appearance, but they perform the same function as an adjustment function.
Eccentric appearance options On the edge of the eccentric there is a risk, which serves as an indicator of the desired mode. By default, it is set up - this is the neutral position, which needs to be changed in accordance with the season.
Risk indicating the exposed mode How to switch
The process itself is quite simple, only one tool is required - a simple hexagon (usually 4 mm), less often an asterisk.
It is necessary to expose plastic windows to the cold season mode before the onset of frost, when the temperature is still plus 5–10 °.
Open the glass unit and inspect the ends. Usually one eccentric is always on the side, the second on top.
Mark indicating adjustment mode Most likely, the regimes will be in a neutral position, and the risks will point up. Having picked up the necessary tool, change the position of the marker.
To expose the plastic window for the winter, turn the notch on the regulator to the outside of the room. With the onset of the warm season, the position of the marker should be translated into the room by the mark. Accordingly, if there are several such regulators, then the modes are transferred by turning all available eccentrics to one position.
It is necessary to constantly switch modes according to the season - this is what will ensure normal functionality, ventilation balance and sufficient energy saving in housing.
What other adjustment methods are there
If, when checking the tightness of the locking, cold air still penetrates from the top or bottom of the sash, then, most likely, the problem is in the incorrect setting of the sash geometry.
The figure shows the main points where you may need to adjust the fittings. The window design provides several adjustment options:
- horizontal and vertical shift;
- setting the position of the bottom corner;
- the degree of pressing to the frame.
Location of adjustment points How are optimal modes set?
Setting vertical position
This is done by adjusting the bottom hinge. Remove the protective strip. There are two points of adjustment here - horizontal and vertical. To raise or lower the sash, adjust the screw on top of the hinge. To raise it, turn it clockwise, and vice versa, if you need to lower the height.
Vertical Position Correction Horizontal adjustment
To perform this operation, both buttonholes must be set.
There is a second screw on the side of the lower canopy to change the horizontal position. When it is turned from left to right, the sash moves to the hinge, and vice versa when turned back.
Correction of the lower canopy Drafts are also possible through the non-lockable top corner of the window. To do this, set the clamp of the upper loop, the adjustment screw of which is on the side. We twist it and achieve the desired result - evenness and tightness.
Setting up the top canopy When changing the horizontal position, it is necessary to leave a gap of several millimeters between the hinge and the sash. Otherwise, the ventilation mode will not work with a strong tightening.
Changing the degree of sash compression
The clamping mechanism is another plate-like device located on the frame. It is designed to resist burglary by pushing the sash from the street side.
Pressure plate for tighter closure When turned clockwise, the tongue extends, which will contribute to a tighter closure.
Adjusting the top corner fit
There is another adjusting screw to press the upper corner of the window to the frame. To get to it, you need to open the window in two directions at once. To do this, press the lock at the end of the sash, as shown in the picture.
Locking eye and tongue locks allow the upper corner to be pressed against the frame Pull it as far as it will go, turn the knob to ventilate, and then pull the upper edge of the sash towards you. The clamping mechanism is accessible. One of the plates has a place for a hexagon. By turning it, you can adjust the tightness of the upper corner of the sash.
These are the main problems that can appear over a long period of operation, when the operation of the system gradually weakens the initially set modes. But immediately after installation, all these settings are regulated by the installers themselves from the supplier - they are obliged to ensure the correct operation of the system.
Of course, if there is no experience or it is not clear how to do the adjustment yourself, it is best to contact the installer. They will send their specialist who will perform all the necessary procedures by setting the sash to the desired position.
If the adjustments do not work
A situation may arise when the sashes are adjusted correctly, the plastic windows have been transferred to the desired season and all the mechanisms close well, and problems still arise:
- draft;
- condensate;
- freezing.
Such nuances can arise in several cases:
- Defective windows. This happens quite rarely, and even then only when ordering from dubious companies.
- Incorrect installation. During installation work, the correct technology must be followed: compliance with the gaps between the frame and the opening, high-quality fastening and compulsory sealing with construction foam.
- No finishing on the slopes. Polyurethane foam without protection quickly collapses under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and moisture.
- Worn seal. Perhaps with prolonged or improper use of double-glazed windows.
If a malfunction is established, it will be eliminated. The windows should now work properly and provide sufficient airtightness.
The installed systems "winter-summer" or "winter-summer-autumn" with seasonal adjustment of the fittings have great advantages: in winter, waterproofing and heat protection through the sealing of window parts is preserved, and in summer there is sufficient protection from dust and heat.
Unfortunately, not every plastic window provides the ability to change the settings, it does not depend on the quality of the glass unit, but on the class of the installed fittings.
It is customary to distinguish three main types:
- Budget fittings. Provides basic functionality to open and close casements without additional resources. It belongs to the low price segment and is often installed in new buildings.
- Standard fittings. Regulation systems are present, good quality characteristics. Average price category.
- Specialized fittings. Development with elements of anti-burglary fortifications. Seasonal changes of the "summer-autumn-winter" settings are provided.
What are they and why are they needed?
Switching the window to winter and summer mode
The concept of the operating mode is associated with the degree of pressing the window fittings to the base and, accordingly, the sashes - to the frame seals. In winter mode, the setting ensures maximum tightness of the structure. Thus, isolation from the external environment is enhanced.
At the end of the winter period, it is time to reconfigure the winter settings for the summer ones in order to prevent wear of the fittings fastening parts and the wear of the seal.
By default, when buying or installing windows, summer mode is always set to extend the shelf life of the inner seal. Unfortunately, when installing double-glazed windows, it is very rare to instruct consumers on the functioning and operation of seasonal settings.
Summer and winter modes, as the main ones, protect the interior from drafts, guarantee the comfort and tightness of plastic windows, depending on the season. If there is such a technical possibility, it is recommended to carry out periodic adjustment.
Adjustment is available to any consumer, no specialist call is required. The only recommendation when changing the settings is to be careful not to damage the fittings and extend the life of the glass unit.
How to check the window for translation?
If, when installing or moving into an apartment, it remained unclear whether the double-glazed window has seasons settings, then you can find out yourself. First open the doors and look at the mountings. On the side there are special eccentrics, or pins.
This is the name of a small mechanism that serves to hold the sash when it is closed. When the window is closed, you can hear a characteristic click - this is the sound of a working pin. Thanks to this device, the setting for changing the season is carried out.
The eccentrics must have hex key holes, a star screwdriver or a regular screwdriver. Their presence is a kind of confirmation of the ability to adjust the seasonal settings of the seal.
The oval shape of the eccentric also speaks of this. There can be several or one trunnion, depending on the size of the flaps and the manufacturer. With their help, you can transfer the mode.
If the holes shown are missing, the seasonal settings cannot be changed. The solution to the issue may be the replacement of fittings or a sealant to ensure the sealing of the structure in winter.
How to change the mode yourself?
Trunnion adjustment diagram
Changing the seasonal regime on double-glazed windows is not a difficult task. But before you get started, decide if this is necessary. Double-glazed windows are inherently reliable protection from the external environment. In mild, not too cold weather, it is not worth re-adjusting the mode, so as not to subject the seal to additional wear.
Step by step guide:
- Step 1. Preparatory. Open the sashes and clean the joints and joints of the front side of the sashes with a damp cloth. It is important to keep dirt out of the internal mechanisms and hinges. Use a hard brush to clean the fittings and remove traces of dried grease. If necessary, replace the worn seal and re-lubricate the adjustment screws and hinges with machine oil or vegetable oil. On sale there is a special tool for processing fittings in a syringe tube, convenient for use.
- Step 2. In order to avoid skewing or sagging of the sash, it is recommended to check the geometry of the window position. For this, the closed sash is slightly outlined with a pencil around the perimeter. Then, the sash needs to be opened and the distance from the drawn lines to the frame opening is measured. Ideally, it should be the same or have a small error of up to 5 mm. If there are deviations in the upper part, then the decorative inserts should be removed from the hinges and the screws at the bottom should be tightened with a hexagon. If there are deviations in the lower part of the contour, the correction is made at the top. The load on the hinges must be uniform.
- Step 3. Count all the eccentrics, or pins. Their number may differ depending on the size of the window. Everything must be transferred to another mode.
- Step 4. Using pliers, a hex key or screwdriver, turn each eccentric clockwise so as to press the seal as much as possible. Some types of fittings provide for the primary pulling of the trunnion towards itself before turning on the model of the watch winding mechanism.
- Step 5. The result of the mode change can be seen with a simple sheet of paper. Place the sheet so that it is sandwiched between the sash and the frame and close the window. Try to pull out the paper. If you did it without difficulty, then the established summer regime has been preserved. If the paper is pressed tightly and tears in an attempt to pull it out, it means that it was possible to change the setting, the window is compacted in winter format. Please note that turning the window handle also began to be carried out with great effort.
When is it time to transfer?
It is possible to replace seasonal modes and adjust fittings along the way if there are the following reasons:
- Window sashes are blown around the perimeter in cold autumn, heat leaves, cold air and dust get into the cracks. The hardware works in summer mode or you are not aware of its condition.
- Spring and summer period. It is time to relieve the windows of the additional load to preserve the seal and other parts from wear.
- Difficulty opening the sashes, which may be due to the winter mode or sagging loops.
- The presence of sagging leaves or offsets from the window. Possibly the cause is a worn seal or incorrect seasonal setting.
It should be noted that unreasonable reconfiguration of modes is not recommended, especially for new windows. On average, fittings can be adjusted no more than once every six months.
The change in the "winter-summer" regime near plastic windows is carried out by residents mainly independently.
- Refer to instructions, if they have survived, to study the features of the supplied double-glazed windows.
- Consult with specialists of window installation firms or experienced insulating glass users.
- Correctly assess the technical condition of windows for adjustment: you can rip off the adjustment bolts or bring the seal into a deformed state. As a result, a complete replacement of fittings and a seal will be required.
In general, the right solution will allow you to create maximum comfort in the room at any time of the year, and your plastic windows will last for more than a dozen years.
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The indoor air temperature largely depends on the tightness of the window system. Timely regulation is allowed to create the most comfortable conditions in each room. As part of today's review, we will look at how to switch windows to winter mode so that you can do it yourself.
Windows can work in different positions
The mode of modern plastic windows determines the degree of pressing the sash to the frame. May be:
- standard, at which the sash has an average clamping position that is optimal for. The window system is able to work effectively in winter and summer. The eccentric is in a central position;
- winter. The closest fit of the sash to the frame is ensured. The winter position of plastic windows allows you to more effectively retain heat inside the house;
- summer. The leaf is fixed less tightly. The air can circulate freely, providing a micro-ventilation effect. As a result, in the hot season, comfortable conditions are created in the apartment.
Why do you need to adjust the modes of plastic windows
Alternating the summer and winter modes of plastic windows, you can extend the service life of the structure. In winter, the material shrinks, and as the air warms up, it expands. Adjusting the window system changes the degree of sash pressure. As a result, the wear rate of the seal and fasteners is reduced.
Change the mode of the plastic window if:
- blowing from the side of the window. An incorrectly chosen position will lead to the fact that in winter cold air will flow from the side of the window system;
- the sash does not open or close well. An incorrectly selected position can contribute to its jamming in the ventilation mode;
- the sash sagged. Critical hinge wear may be the cause. By replacing the fittings or by switching the structure to winter mode, you can.
Advice! Find out from the master how to switch double-glazed windows to winter mode immediately after installing the system.
Advantages and disadvantages of switching windows to winter mode
Timely change of the window construction mode has a beneficial effect on the microclimate inside the house. When in the winter position, the system will prevent the penetration of cold outside. Summer position will provide active air circulation.
It should be remembered that the constant change in the order of the window system has certain disadvantages. The adjusting screws increase the sealing of the window system. However, a constant change in the position of the fastener can cause a loss of the basic characteristics of the sealing element. Strong compression, exposure to low temperatures and high humidity can lead to the fact that after 2-3 seasons the seal will become worse in performing its main purpose. In some cases, it may even need to be replaced.
Attention! By refusing to change the order of operation of the window system, you can increase the service life of the seal at least twice.
Which fittings have the function of switching to summer or winter mode
Before figuring out how to put plastic windows on winter mode, it is worth finding out if all structures have this function. The answer is no. It all depends on which class the used fittings belong to. Allocate accessories:
- budgetary. Such fittings have limited functionality, as they are intended for cheap plastic products. With its help, the sash can be opened / closed. Individual models allow you to choose ventilation. Budget fittings are most often resorted to in large-scale construction, when it is necessary to reduce the cost of erecting a typical new building;
- standard... The price matches the quality. Products have a wider functionality compared to the budget option. Most models allow you to set the winter mode on plastic windows. Standard fittings are widely used in most window systems installed in buildings for various purposes;
- specialized. Such products are intended for windows that are installed in rooms operated in special conditions. They have special capabilities. They can be anti-burglary. With their help, you can change the operating conditions of the window system.
Advice! Timely maintenance of double-glazed windows will greatly simplify the transition from one mode of operation to another.
Preparatory work is carried out in the following sequence:
- glass is washed;
- the frame is cleared of accumulated dirt. Special attention is paid to joints and connections;
- the fittings are cleaned. To do this, you should use a hard brush;
- all elements of the window system are carefully wiped off;
- fittings are lubricated with silicone grease;
- the pin is given the required spatial position;
- grease is reapplied.
When and how to switch windows to winter or summer mode
When to transfer windows from one mode to another, everyone decides individually. If from under the closed sash "pulls cold", it's worth it. You should not rush so as not to worsen the condition of the rubber seal ahead of time. It is also important not to overdo it, since tightly tightening the eccentric sometimes leads to. As soon as it gets warmer outside, you should immediately switch from "winter" to "summer". We will consider in more detail below how to transfer euro windows to winter mode.
How to properly adjust windows
Before setting the mode, adjust the window system to avoid damage to the sealing element when sagging or skewing the sash. Armed with a pencil with a soft rod, you should circle the closed sash around the perimeter. This should be done carefully, without much effort.
Having opened the sash, measure the distance between the frame opening and the drawn line. The values \u200b\u200bobtained should be in the range of 6 - 8 mm. Ideally - equal around the entire perimeter.
If the values \u200b\u200bdo not match in height, you should, after removing the decorative plastic insert from the hinges, tighten the screws using the hexagon. If the distance is less from below, then the upper screw is slightly unscrewed, the position of the sash is adjusted and the fasteners are tightened back. This action is repeated with the second loop. If the distance is less at the top, perform the same actions with the lower screw. Adjustment is performed until the desired result is achieved. As a result, all screws should assume approximately the same position.
Attention! A properly adjusted structure should open without the characteristic rubbing sound.
If a horizontal sash displacement is required, the adjusting screw is tightened in one of the hinges. The offset can be up to 3 mm. If you want to move away from the hinge, rotate counterclockwise. Otherwise, clockwise.
Related article:
Photo and video instructions
A sufficiently detailed verbal description does not always allow you to figure out how to switch windows to winter mode. Pictures with detailed descriptions or a master class recorded on video allows you to understand this much faster and better. We suggest choosing the most convenient way of perceiving information so that it is easier to adjust the window structure at home.
How to transfer plastic windows to winter mode?
For those who do not know how to switch windows to winter mode, instructions with a detailed description will help to complete the necessary steps accurately enough. You should prepare the necessary tools and follow the recommendations of a specialist.
To begin with, let's consider in detail how to transfer windows to winter mode with a hexagon. You can follow the instructions below:
| A photo | Description of work |
|---|---|
 | We open the sash. |
 | Preparing a 4 mm square wrench. |
 | We adjust the position of the first eccentric. |
 | We adjust the position of the second eccentric. If there are more, their position should also be adjusted. |
 | The required position is determined by the notch. In winter mode, it should be located closer to the rubber seal. In the photo there is a winter mode on plastic windows. |
 | Turning the eccentric 180 degrees will allow you to switch the windows to "summer". |
 | Check if all the eccentrics are in the correct position. Their number can be determined by the strike plates. |
The design of plastic windows assumes the ability to adjust the degree of pressure of the window sash, this function is designed to transfer the system to seasonal winter-summer modes.
Plastic windows are installed in almost every third apartment or private house, but not all users are aware of the operational capabilities that metal-plastic windows provide.
One of the functional features is the transfer of the plastic window mode from winter to summer mode, and vice versa. This ability is determined by the variety of fittings used. Of course, this property is not inherent in all PVC windows, but only in those with more modern fittings.
Modes of plastic windows - what are they and what they are
Winter mode of plastic windows - this mode allows you to ensure a more tight fit of the window sash frame to the window frame and, accordingly, helps to save heat in the winter season;
Summer mode of plastic windows - differs in a less tight fit of the sash, which ensures the possibility of constant air circulation between the room and the environment, i.e. allows you to implement micro-ventilation mode.
Standard position (the mode of medium pressing of the sash to the frame - the eccentric is in the middle), as a rule, a window with a double-glazed unit works equally well in this mode both in winter and in summer, providing optimal pressing of the seal.
Why do you need to adjust the modes of plastic windows
Setting the modes makes it possible to extend the life of the window. Adjustment allows you to change the degree of fit of the sash to the frame. Indeed, in the winter, the material shrinks, and in the summer it expands. Adjusting PVC window fittings makes it possible to reduce the wear of the seal and fasteners.
In addition, some of the reasons for changing modes include:
Blowing from the window. Cold air in winter or dust in summer is something to avoid when installing a new window;
Sash opens / closes poorly. For example, if a plastic window is stuck in the ventilation mode, then one of the reasons may be - incorrectly set mode;
Sagging of the sash. It is a consequence of the wear of the hinges, is eliminated by switching to winter mode or replacing the fittings.
The ability to switch between modes is implemented in fittings from well-known manufacturers, such as Maco, Roto, Siegenia Aubi, GU. However, today, customizing fittings is more a rule than an exception, for all fittings that are a class above the budget.
How to determine if it is possible to switch windows to winter mode?
Often during installation, the user does not receive information about the possibilities of window fittings. To understand whether there is a transfer to different modes for a particular PVC window, you need to study the appearance (marking) of the fittings, in particular the trunnion.
A trunnion or eccentric is a piece of hardware that allows you to adjust the degree of pressure of the sash to the window frame. It is located on the side of the sash.
If on the surface of the trunnion there are holes for a key (in the form of an asterisk, a screwdriver, a hexagon) or the trunnion has an oval shape, this indicates that this hardware provides the ability to operate the window in different seasonal modes.
Do I need to switch windows to winter mode?
In autumn, with the approach of cold weather, it is recommended to transfer the accessories to winter mode. Otherwise, there is a high probability of blowing from the side of the sash. If the seal is in good condition, you can leave the window in summer mode. During the warming period, transferring the fittings to the summer mode helps to reduce the pressure (load) on the seal and is a prerequisite for its long-term operation.
How to determine in what mode plastic windows?
There are two ways to check which mode the window is in:
Assess the degree of pressure of the window sash to the frame. Take a sheet of paper and place it between the sash and the frame. If, after closing the window, the clamped sheet is pulled out with minimal effort, then the window is set for summer mode, if it does not stretch (breaks), then for winter mode.
Look at the position of the axle (eccentric). There is a dash (dot, asterisk) on the round pin, by which the mode can be estimated. If the dash is oriented towards the room, this is the winter mode, if towards the street it is the summer mode.
A different rule applies for oval trunnions. If it is located vertically, the sash is slightly pressed against the window frame, which allows us to assert that the window is set to summer mode. If horizontally - strong pressure, i.e. winter mode.
How to transfer plastic windows to winter mode or summer mode
The transfer between modes is simple, but every step needs to be paid attention, otherwise, the fittings will fail, and it will need to be replaced or a major overhaul of the window. Some users prefer to apply for the service to the company that installed the windows.
However, the translation process is not difficult and it is quite possible to complete it on your own, spending no more than half an hour of time on everything.
How to adjust plastic windows for winter mode with your own hands
Adjusting the pins on plastic windows - step by step instructions:
Determine the location of the pins. The number of eccentrics depends on the sash size. As a rule, there are three of them on the side of the handle and one on the opposite side (where hinges, awnings, as well as above and below the sash). You need to find all the pins, because when changing modes, you need to change the position of each of them;
Wipe down all window elements and thoroughly clean the fittings. This will exclude the ingress of dust when turning the trunnions and protect them from mechanical damage;
Clean lubricated elements. After the transition, it is better to reapply the lubricant;
Consider the pins. Find stripes or other symbols on their surface indicating the mode of operation of the window. If the pins are oval, pay attention to their position relative to the horizontal;
Turn each of the pins to the required position. You need to turn either with a hexagon (or another suitable tool) or pliers (for oval trunnions).
Check the correctness of the translation by placing and then removing a sheet of paper from a closed window.
Note. Some manufacturers of plastic windows make trunnions "recessed" into the sash. Before turning them, you need to pull them out, then set them in the desired position and drown again. The turning procedure is the same as the procedure for moving hands on a mechanical wristwatch.
Please note - when switching to winter mode, a long dash (or dot) should be directed towards the room (i.e. towards the sealing rubber), and in the case of an oval trunnion, it is horizontal.
How to transfer plastic windows to winter mode - video
For your information, the ventilation mode of plastic windows in winter mode works as standard and the window opens in the usual way.
The transition to summer mode is carried out in the same way, in reverse order. Knowing the sequence of switching to winter mode, it is easy to set the window fittings for summer.
Features of customizing window fittings - rules
Despite the fact that the fittings provide for the possibility of transferring between modes, it is not recommended to do this in the first year of window operation. The window is still functioning optimally;
Translation is performed every six months. Moreover, the duration of the winter period is shorter than that of the summer;
It is undesirable to operate the window in summer in winter mode, this increases the rate of wear of the seal.
Should you switch plastic windows to winter mode?
The constant change of modes leads to the fact that the seal loses its properties. This happens especially quickly in winter mode, because the pivot pressure on it increases. In addition to the effect of the trunnion, the seal is affected by low temperature and high humidity. This leads to the destruction of the seal (it starts to blow, it becomes necessary to insulate the plastic window), the worn-out rubber of the seal requires replacement. In summer mode, the seal will last at least twice as long.
Conclusion
Despite the possibilities that modern window fittings provide, you need to evaluate the feasibility of each option. On the one hand, switching to winter / summer mode provides a more comfortable temperature regime in the room and reduces heat loss through the window opening. On the other hand, the transfer contributes to the rapid wear of the seal, which necessitates its replacement and additional costs. Therefore, whether to switch windows for winter or not, every user needs to be based on his personal preferences.
