Preparing windows for winter: one day for the longevity of a plastic window. How to transfer plastic windows to winter mode Installing plastic windows to the winter position
Plastic windows save from street noise, provide a comfortable air temperature in an apartment, a private house. However, once installed, they require . Adjustment of locking mechanisms is needed every off-season - only then double-glazed windows will fulfill their task. Today's article will tell you how to switch windows to winter mode, what it is for when such actions are performed. Along the way, it is worth understanding the features of the locking mechanisms, the device, and some of the nuances of functioning. Photo and video instructions will help us, explaining in detail the algorithm of the actions performed.
Immediately make a reservation that with a lack of knowledge and experience, our editors recommend contacting professionals in their field. Specialists of specialized firms will advise on all possible issues and offer the most advantageous options for solving 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 pressure force of the sashes in three modes:
- summer- the window sash is pressed weakly. This provides air circulation in the room, realizing. Wear of sealing rubber bands is minimal;
- winter mode on plastic windows provides a tight clamp. There is no air circulation, which ensures the preservation of heat in the home. The load on the sealing gum is maximum;
- standard- the average position of the eccentrics (trunnions). More often, installers leave locking mechanisms in this position. The only difference is that professionals who value their reputation show the owner how to switch double-glazed windows to winter or summer mode, and negligent ones (who, unfortunately, are the majority) do not bother to explain. Standard mode is for the off-season.
Why switch the modes of plastic windows
It is enough not to switch the “winter-summer” mode on plastic windows for 2-3 years, so that after, even with the right adjustments, it starts to blow from under the windowsill or balcony door. Consider the problems that arise with incorrect settings.
The first is a violation of the microclimate of the room. Excessive contributes to the formation of condensation on frames, double-glazed windows and walls, which leads to mold. "Summer" settings in winter lead to heat loss, a need arises. The result is increased gas bills or.
Important! The use of 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 rubber seals, which are not cheap.
Switching modes of plastic windows: advantages and disadvantages
Window adjustment flaws can only occur if the home master does the wrong thing. If everything is done correctly, switching modes will only benefit. Let's see in what cases it is justified.
Timely switching will extend the life of windows, even if these actions have not been performed for some time. Drafts in winter or dust ingress in summer are treated by switching the fittings to winter mode. Let not for long, but for a year or two will be delayed. Sagging loops are eliminated in the same way. Replacing accessories is already an extreme measure.
Good to know! Incorrectly set modes can cause the window or door to jam separately in the ventilation position or together with the opening.
Determination of the possibility of changing the seasonal regimes 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 look at the valves. The eccentric located in the middle can be oval or in the center it will have a hole for an asterisk or a hexagon. This indicates the presence of a winter regime on plastic windows. The photos below will help the reader deal with this issue.
The algorithm of actions when adjusting windows with different trunnions is identical, but their position may differ. Let's try to understand in detail the types of eccentrics.
Forms of escentrics and nuances of mode translation
The oval trunnion after installation is more often located diagonally - this is the standard position, the middle between winter and summer. The horizontal position indicates winter mode, and the vertical position indicates summer mode.
If the stop valve eccentric is round (for a hexagon), then its positions are as follows. Extended towards the street - winter, located in the center - standard, recessed towards the apartment - summer.
The third option is a round hex 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 offer you to view pictures of how to switch windows to winter mode.
How to switch windows to winter mode: preparation of double-glazed windows
Before, preparatory work should be done. The first thing to do is to remove the grease from the locking mechanism assemblies with a rag so that dirt and dust do not get inside when adjusting. After all the work done, the mechanism is lubricated again.
Very important! The rubber frame seal should be treated before the cold weather. You can do this with a lubricant (based on silicone or glycerin), but it is better to use a silicone spray, which is sold in all hardware and automotive stores.
How and when plastic windows are switched to winter mode
Experts recommend switching locking mechanisms from summer to winter only in extreme cases, when drafts become sensitive. However, this is only suitable for warm climatic zones of Russia. Switching at the beginning of the heating season will be optimal.
A misted double-glazed window or a slight appearance of ice on it from the inside can also indicate the need for adjustment.
Useful information! Before switching windows to winter mode, you should carefully inspect the rubber seal. Perhaps the adjustment of the sash hardware is correct, and the seal is cracked or torn. In this case, you must definitely replace it. For one winter, you can buy cheap seals, but they do not last more than a season.
Other options for adjusting 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 creates a load on the window fittings and contributes to the appearance of drafts.
The sash is adjusted vertically and horizontally from the bottom hinge. We remove the protective plastic cover and find a screw with a hexagon hole located on top. Turning the screw clockwise will raise the frame. By turning counterclockwise, we lower the glass unit. In order to move the sash away from the frame or, on the contrary, to set it closer, we use the screw located on the side at the bottom of the hinge.
Important! If all adjustments are made correctly, and the problems of drafts have not disappeared, this indicates wear on the seals, a factory defect in the frame, or improper 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 the inhabitants, 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, metal-plastic double-glazed windows must be transferred to the mode corresponding to the season. How to carry out self-adjustment of plastic windows for the winter? And how important is it to do so?
Seasonal maintenance
The main feature of opening windows is that they do not have vents. For better ventilation of the room, the system provides for rotary shutters. During the operation of plastic double-glazed windows, you can notice that a draft appears in winter. Do not panic - this is not a manufacturing defect, but simply the seasonal mode is incorrectly set. Transferring plastic windows to winter and summer modes is a mandatory maintenance procedure.
The tilt and turn mechanism of the double-glazed window must be adjusted depending on the season of the year
Drafts may also occur during prolonged use. This is due to the loosening of the screws of the hinges of the rotary-locking mechanisms. By independently adjusting 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 valves in the winter mode. Tightness can be checked in several ways:
- Tactile. By running your hand along the frame, you can determine the presence of serious drafts.
- Fire matches or lighters. The deviation of the flame from the vertical indicates the presence of blowing.
- Sheet of paper. They leave him in a closed sash and try to pull him out. If the sheet comes out easily, then the sash does not close tightly.
If the paper sheet is easy to pull out through the sash, then the window is leaking. Having identified problem areas, they begin to regulate the system to optimal requirements.
Switching winter/summer modes
When installing double-glazed windows, installers set the initial neutral parameters for locking the sashes. All positions will be adjusted for optimal functionality. However, then it is necessary to make adjustments to the settings - ideally at intervals of 2 times a year.
Why is it needed
Often, seasonal adjustment is forgotten, leaving the sash clamp in the neutral position. As with any violation of the rules of operation, over time there are consequences:
- drafts from under the sash even with correct mounting adjustments;
- if the summer mode is set, then in winter this will not provide sufficient pressure on 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 an increase in the level of humidity (there is a risk of condensation and mold).
Incorrect operation may cause condensation to form on the glass To do this, you need to correctly set the winter and summer modes of plastic windows in the sash settings.
Adjustment mechanisms
Before proceeding to change the mode, it is necessary to determine the places where the devices for adjustment are located. In most cases, the system provides for the presence of special mechanisms - trunnions, which, depending on their position, determine the degree of pressing the sash required for the season.
They are located at the ends of the metal-plastic window or door. The number of such mechanisms may vary depending on the size and manufacturer of the double-glazed window (from two or more).
Places of possible location of eccentrics - they are in different places for different manufacturers The trunnions may differ in appearance, but perform the same adjustment function.
Options for the appearance of eccentrics On the edge of the eccentric is a risk, which serves as an indicator of the desired mode. By default, it is set up - this is the neutral position, which must be changed in accordance with the season.
Risk indicating the set mode How to switch
The process itself is quite simple, you only need one tool - a simple hexagon (usually 4 mm), less often an asterisk.
It is necessary to set plastic windows in the cold season mode before the onset of frost, when the temperature is still plus 5–10 °.
Open the double-glazed window and inspect the ends. Usually one eccentric is always on the side, the second on top.
Label indicating adjustment mode Most likely, the regimes will be in a neutral position, and the risks will point upwards. Having picked up the right tool, change the position of the marker.
To set a 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 with a label. Accordingly, if there are several such regulators, then the modes are switched by turning all available eccentrics to one position.
You need 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 adjustments are there?
If, when checking for tightness of locking, cold air still enters from above or below 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 design of the window provides several adjustment options:
- shift horizontally and vertically;
- setting the position of the bottom corner;
- the degree of pressing to the frame.
Location of adjustment points How is the optimal mode set?
Setting the vertical position
This is done by adjusting the bottom loop. Remove the protective cover. There are two adjustment points - horizontally and vertically. To raise or lower the sash, adjust the screw located 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 Correction
To perform this operation, both loops must be adjusted.
On the side of the lower canopy there is a second screw designed to change the horizontal position. When it is turned from left to right, the sash moves towards the hinge, and vice versa when turning it back.
Lower overhang adjustment 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 located on the side. We twist it and achieve the desired result - evenness and tight fit.
Top canopy setting When changing the horizontal position, it is necessary to leave a gap of several millimeters between the hinge and the sash. Otherwise, with a strong tightening, the ventilation mode will not work.
Changing the degree of pressing the sash
The clamping mechanism is another device in the form of a plate located on the frame. It is designed to resist burglary by pushing the sash from the side of the street.
Clamping mechanism plate provides tighter closure When turned clockwise, the tongue extends, which will contribute to a tighter closure.
Adjusting the fit of the top corner
There is another adjustment screw to press the top corner of the window against the frame. To get to it, you need to open the window in two directions at once. To do this, press the blocker on the end of the sash, as shown in the picture.
Locking loop and tongue locks allow you to press the top corner against the frame Pull it all the way, turn the handle to ventilate, and then pull the upper edge of the sash towards you. Access to the clamping mechanism is open. On one of the plates there is 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 may appear over a long period of operation, when the operation of the system gradually weakens the modes initially set. But immediately after installation, all these settings are adjusted by the installers themselves from the supplier - they are required 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, putting the sashes in the right position.
If the settings don't work
A situation may arise when the sashes are adjusted correctly, the plastic windows are switched to the desired season mode and all mechanisms close well, and problems still arise:
- draft;
- condensate;
- freezing.
Such nuances can arise in several cases:
- Broken windows. This happens quite rarely and then only when ordering from dubious companies.
- Wrong installation. During installation work, the correct technology must be observed: maintaining the gaps between the frame and the opening, high-quality fastening and mandatory sealing with construction foam.
- No trim on slopes. Mounting foam without protection quickly collapses under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and moisture.
- Sealant wear. It is possible with prolonged or improper use of double-glazed windows.
When a fault is identified, it is eliminated. The windows should now function correctly and provide sufficient tightness.
There are great advantages in the presence of installed “winter-summer” or “winter-summer-autumn” systems with seasonal adjustment of fittings: in winter, waterproofing and thermal protection are preserved through the sealing of window parts, and in summer there is enough protection from dust and heat.
Unfortunately, not every plastic window provides the ability to change the settings, it depends not on the quality of the double-glazed window, but on the class of the installed fittings.
It is customary to distinguish three main types:
- Budget furniture. Provides basic functions - open and close window sashes without additional resources. It belongs to the low price segment and is often installed in new buildings.
- Standard fittings. Adjustment systems are present, good quality characteristics. Average price category.
- Specialized fittings. Developments with elements of anti-burglary fortifications. Seasonal changes of settings "summer-autumn-winter" 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 related to the degree of pressing of the window fittings to the base and, accordingly, of the sashes to the frame seals. In winter mode, the setting ensures the tightness of the structure as much as possible. Thus, isolation from the external environment is enhanced.
At the end of the winter period, it is time to reconfigure the winter settings for summer ones in order to prevent wear of the fittings fastening parts and erasure of the seal.
By default, when buying or installing windows, summer mode is always set to extend the shelf life of the internal seal. Unfortunately, when installing double-glazed windows, it is very rare for consumers to be instructed about the functioning and operation of seasonal settings.
Summer and winter modes, as the main ones, provide protection of 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, calling specialists is not required. The only recommendation when changing the settings is to be careful not to damage the fittings and extend the life of the double-glazed window.
How to check the window for the possibility of translation?
If, during installation or moving into an apartment, it remains unclear whether the double-glazed window has season settings, then you can find out for yourself. First, open the sashes and look at the fasteners. On the side there are special eccentrics, or otherwise trunnions.
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 the change of season is carried out.
The eccentrics must have hex key holes., a star screwdriver or a standard screwdriver. Their presence is a kind of confirmation of the ability to adjust the seasonal settings of the compactor.
The oval shape of the eccentric also speaks of this. There can be several pins or one, depending on the size of the valves and the manufacturer. With their help, you can translate the mode.
In the absence of the specified holes, it will not be possible to change the seasonal settings. The solution to the issue may be to replace the fittings or sealant to ensure the sealing of the structure in winter.
How to change the mode yourself?
Pin adjustment scheme
Changing the seasonal regime on double-glazed windows is a simple 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 reconfiguring the mode so as not to subject the seal to additional wear.
Walkthrough:
- Step 1. Preparatory. Open the sashes and use a damp cloth to clean the joints and joints of the front side of the sashes. It is important to prevent dirt from entering the internal mechanisms and hinges. With a hard brush, you need 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 or vegetable oil. On sale there is a special tool for processing accessories in a syringe tube, convenient for use.
- Step 2 In order to avoid warping or sagging of the sash, it is recommended to check the geometry of the window position. To do this, the closed sash is lightly 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 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 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 trunnions. Their number may vary depending on the size of the window. Everything needs to be switched to another mode.
- Step 4 Using pliers, a hex wrench or a 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 it, following the pattern of the clockwork 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 frame and close the window. Try to pull out the paper. If you succeeded 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 the setting has been changed, the window has been sealed in a winter format. Please note that the turn of the window handle also began to be carried out with great effort.
When is the right time to transfer?
You can replace seasonal modes and adjust accessories along the way if there are the following reasons:
- Window sashes are blown around the perimeter in cold autumn, heat escapes, cold air, dust enters the cracks. The fittings operate in summer mode or you do not know its condition.
- Spring-summer period. It's time to free the windows from additional load to save the seal and other parts from wear.
- Difficulty opening doors, which may be due to the winter mode or sagging loops.
- The presence of sagging sashes or offsets relative to the window. Perhaps the reason is a worn seal or an 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.
Changing the winter-summer mode at plastic windows is carried out by residents mostly on their own.
- Refer to instructions, if they are preserved, to study the features of the delivered double-glazed windows.
- Consult with specialists of window installation companies or experienced insulating glass users.
- Correctly assess the technical condition of windows for adjustment: you can break the adjustment bolts or cause the seal to deform. As a result, a complete replacement of fittings and seals will be required.
In general, the right decision will allow you to create maximum comfort in the room at any time of the year, and your plastic windows will last for decades.
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The air temperature in the room largely depends on the tightness of the window system. Timely regulation allows you 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 be operated in various 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, optimal for. The window system is able to work effectively in winter and summer. The eccentric occupies a central position;
- winter. Provides the tightest fit of the sash to the frame. The winter position of plastic windows allows you to more effectively retain heat inside the house;
- summer. The sash is fixed less tightly. Air can circulate freely, providing a micro-ventilation effect. As a result, comfortable conditions are created in the apartment during the hot season.
Why do you need to adjust the modes of plastic windows
By alternating the summer and winter modes of plastic windows, you can extend the life of the structure. In winter, the material contracts, and as the air warms up, it expands. Adjusting the window system changes the degree of pressing the sash. As a result, the wear intensity of the seal and fasteners is reduced.
You should change the plastic window mode if:
- blowing from 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 properly. An incorrectly chosen position may contribute to its jamming in the ventilation mode;
- the sash sagged. The reason may be the critical wear of the hinges. By replacing the fittings or by transferring the design to winter mode, you can.
Advice! Learn from the master how to transfer double-glazed windows to winter mode immediately after installing the system.
Advantages and disadvantages of switching windows to winter mode
Timely change of the mode of the window structure has a beneficial effect on the microclimate inside the house. Being in the winter position, the system will prevent the penetration of cold from the 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. Adjusting screws allow you to increase the degree of sealing of the window system. However, a constant change in the position of the fastener can cause the 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 for its main purpose. In some cases, it may even need to be replaced.
Attention! Refusing to change the order of the window system, you can increase the life of the seal at least twice.
Which fittings have the function of switching to summer or winter mode
Before you figure out how to put plastic windows in winter mode, you should find out if all designs have this function. Answer: no. It all depends on what class the fittings used belong to. Allocate accessories:
- budget. Such accessories have limited functionality, as they are designed for cheap plastic products. With its help, the sash can be opened / closed. Some models allow you to choose ventilation. Budget fittings are most often resorted to during large-scale construction, when it is necessary to reduce the cost of building 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 designed for windows that are mounted in rooms operated in special conditions. They have special abilities. They can be anti-burglary. With their help, you can change the operating conditions of the window system.
Advice! Timely care of double-glazed windows will greatly simplify the process of switching from one mode of operation to another.
Preparatory work is carried out in the following sequence:
- glasses are washed;
- the frame is cleaned of accumulated dirt. Particular attention is removed to the joints and connections;
- accessories are cleaned. To do this, use a hard brush;
- all elements of the window system are thoroughly wiped;
- 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 switch windows from one mode to another, everyone decides individually. If it “pulls cold” from under the closed sash, 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, as a strong tightening of the eccentric sometimes leads to. As soon as it gets warmer outside, you should immediately switch from “winter” to “summer”. On how to transfer eurowindows to winter mode, we will consider below in more detail.
How to properly adjust windows
Before setting the mode, the window system should be adjusted to avoid damage to the sealing element when the sash sags or is skewed. Armed with a pencil with a soft core, you should circle the closed sash around the perimeter. This should be done carefully, without much effort.
Having opened the sash, you should measure the distance between the frame opening and the drawn line. The values obtained should be in the range of 6 - 8 mm. Ideally - equal around the perimeter.
If the values do not match in height, remove the decorative plastic insert from the hinges and tighten the screws using a hexagon. If the distance from below is smaller, then unscrew the upper screw a little, adjust the position of the sash and screw the fasteners back. This action is repeated with the second loop. If the distance is smaller from above, similar actions are performed with the lower screw. Adjustment is carried out until the desired result is achieved. As a result, all screws should take approximately the same position.
Attention! A properly adjusted structure should open without a characteristic rubbing sound.
If horizontal displacement of the sash is required, the adjusting screw is tightened in one of the hinges. The displacement can be up to 3 mm. If you want to move away from the hinge, turn 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 a detailed description or a master class recorded on video allows you to understand this much faster and better. We offer you to choose 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, an instruction with a detailed description will help you complete the necessary steps accurately enough. You should prepare the necessary tools and follow the recommendations of a specialist.
To begin with, let's take a closer look at how to switch windows to winter mode with a hexagon. You can follow the following instructions:
| A photo | Description of works |
|---|---|
 | We open the sash. |
 | We are preparing a 4 mm square key. |
 | Adjust the position of the first eccentric. |
 | 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, the winter mode on plastic windows. |
 | Turning the eccentric at an angle of 180 degrees will allow you to switch windows to "summer". |
 | We check whether all the eccentrics are translated into the desired position. Their number can be determined by reciprocal levels. |
The design of plastic windows suggests the ability to adjust the degree of pressing 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 possibilities that metal-plastic windows provide.
One of the functional features is the transfer of the plastic window mode from winter mode to summer mode, and vice versa. This ability is determined by the type of fittings used. Of course, this property is not inherent in all PVC windows, but only in those on which more modern fittings are installed.
Plastic window modes - what are they and what is it
Winter mode of plastic windows- this mode allows for a closer 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 the micro-ventilation mode.
Standard position(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 window in this mode works equally well both in winter and in summer, ensuring 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. After all, in winter the material is compressed, and in summer it expands. Adjustment of PVC window fittings makes it possible to reduce the wear of the seal and fasteners.
In addition, some of the reasons why you need to change modes include:
Blowing from the window. Cold air in the winter or dust in the summer is something to avoid when installing a new window;
The sash opens/closes poorly. For example, if a plastic window is stuck in the ventilation mode, then one of the reasons may be an incorrectly set mode;
Sagging window sash. It is a consequence of the wear of the hinges, it is eliminated by switching to the 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, setting up fittings is the rule rather than the exception for all fittings that are above the budget class.
How to determine if it is possible to switch windows to winter mode?
Often, during installation, the user does not receive information about the capabilities of window fittings. To understand whether a transfer to different modes is provided for a particular PVC window, you need to study the appearance (marking) of the fittings, in particular the pins.
A trunnion or eccentric is an element of fittings that allows you to adjust the degree of pressure of the sash against the window frame. It is located on the side of the sash.
If holes for a key are marked on the surface of the trunnion (in the form of an asterisk, screwdriver, hexagon) or the trunnion has an oval shape, this indicates that this fitting provides the opportunity to operate the window in different seasonal modes.
Do I need to convert windows to winter mode?
In autumn, with the approach of cold weather, it is recommended to switch the fittings 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 period of warming, the transfer of fittings to 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 a window is in:
Assess the degree of pressing 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 to the summer mode, if it is not pulled out (torn), then to the winter one.
Look at the position of the trunnion (eccentric). On the round trunnion there is a dash (dot, asterisk), by which you can evaluate the mode. If the dash is oriented towards the room - this is a winter mode, if towards the street - summer.
For oval trunnions, a different rule applies. If it is located vertically, a weak pressure of the sash to the window frame is provided, which allows us to assert that the window is set to summer mode. If horizontally - strong pressure, i.e. winter mode.
How to switch plastic windows to winter mode or summer mode
The transfer between modes is simple, but each step needs to be paid attention, otherwise, the fittings will fail, and it will need to be replaced or the window needs to be overhauled. Some users prefer to apply for a service to the company that installed the windows.
However, the translation process is not complicated and it is quite possible to perform it on your own, spending no more than half an hour on everything.
How to adjust plastic windows for winter mode with your own hands
Adjusting pins on plastic windows - step by step instructions:
Determine the location of the pins. The number of eccentrics depends on the leaf size. As a rule, there are three of them on the side of the handle and one each on the opposite side (where there are hinges, canopies, as well as on top and bottom of the sash). You need to find all the trunnions, because. when changing modes, you need to change the position of each of them;
Wipe all window elements and thoroughly clean the fittings. This will prevent dust from entering when turning the trunnions and protect them from mechanical damage;
Clean lubricated elements. After the transition, it is better to apply the lubricant again;
Consider pins. Find on their surface strips or other designations indicating the operating mode of the window. If the pins are oval, pay attention to their position relative to the horizontal;
Rotate each of the pins to the required position. You need to turn either with a hexagon (or other suitable tool) or with pliers (for oval pins).
Check the correctness of the translation by placing and then removing a sheet of paper from the closed window.
Note. Some manufacturers of plastic windows make the trunnions "recessed" into the sash. Before turning them, you need to pull them out, then set them in the desired position and drown them again. The turning procedure is similar to the procedure for moving the hands on a mechanical wrist watch.
Please note - when switching to winter mode, a long dash (or dot) should be directed towards the room (i.e., to the sealing gum), and in the case of an oval pin, it is located horizontally.
How to transfer plastic windows to winter mode - video
For your information, the ventilation mode for plastic windows in the winter mode works as standard and the window opens in the usual way.
Switching to summer mode is carried out in the same way, in reverse order. Knowing the sequence of transition to the winter mode, it is easy to set the window fittings to the summer one.
Features of setting up window fittings - rules
Despite the fact that the fittings provide for the possibility of switching between modes, it is not recommended to do this in the first year of operation of the window. The window is still functioning optimally;
Translation is carried out every six months. Moreover, the duration of the winter period is shorter than the summer one;
It is undesirable to operate the window in summer in winter mode, this increases the wear rate of the seal.
Is it worth switching plastic windows to winter mode?
The constant change of modes leads to the fact that the sealant loses its properties. This happens especially quickly in winter mode, because. trunnion pressure on it increases. In addition to the impact 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 rubber of the seal needs to be replaced. In summer mode, the compactor lasts at least twice as long.
Conclusion
Despite the opportunities 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, translation contributes to the rapid wear of the seal, which necessitates its replacement and additional costs. Therefore, it is necessary for each user to transfer windows for the winter or not, based on his personal preferences.
