Operating plastic windows, we don’t even think about the fact that they turn out to work in two modes - summer and winter. Experts say that this testifies to the advantages of PVC structures compared to traditional window systems. But how can windows be switched to winter mode and why is this even necessary?
What is the point?
Summer and winter modes of plastic windows depend on the hardware, that is, on its class. Note that it is presented in three variations. The first - budget - is used to equip economy class plastic windows, its main purpose is to open and close windows. Standard hardware equips windows that can be converted to seasonal modes. The most reliable and easy to use - specialized hardware, which is placed on burglar-proof and reinforced plastic windows. It usually provides for the possibility of switching from summer to winter.
How to check?
How to transfer windows to winter mode? To begin with, it is worth checking whether there is an opportunity for this in your plastic windows. And for this in the pins - they are located on the side of the window - there should be holes for the key or screwdriver. In addition, there should be an oval eccentric that allows you to change modes. So if you feel that the window is blowing, then it's time to switch it to winter mode. Experts advise: if the window is not blown, it is better not to change the modes, as this contributes to an increase in the load on the seal, which will wear out faster.
Why do windows lose their tightness?
Since many experts advise switching windows to winter mode, we’ll try to understand why structures become leaky. The most basic reason is the use of low-quality profiles, the second is the illiterate installation of structures, which leads to a deterioration in heat-insulating properties. Leakage of the sash to the frame leads to the fact that through the gaps dust, cold, noise will enter the room, and the heat will go away. And in the winter, such moments are undesirable, therefore, the translation of windows into winter mode is required.
In order not to have to decide on how to switch windows to winter mode, entrust their installation to professionals. They carefully measure the openings, select suitable designs, so that even with thermal expansion of the material of the profile, it occupies the allocated opening as tightly as possible. Change of modes is required for a number of reasons:
- the doors close poorly or loosely, which is due to sagging hinges or an already set winter position on the adjusting screw;
- through the seals, the wind blows into the room, the dust blows;
- the sash is sagging due to wear of the hinges;
- the leaf moves horizontally relative to the window;
- the modes were initially set up incorrectly.
Translation Features
How to transfer windows to winter mode? All work comes down to attention to hardware - if it is not translated correctly, it will adversely affect the state of the entire window. But remember that you should not constantly keep the winter mode, since a strong clamp will lead to rapid wear of the seal. Window translation is performed as follows:
- First you need to find the trunnions on the sash. Their number varies depending on the size of the sash - the larger it is, the greater the number of pins, each of which needs to be switched to winter mode.
- The trunnion translation is in progress. For this, a special tool is used in the form of a hexagon, a screwdriver, and pliers. Each trunnion should be rotated to the maximum possible position, while it is important to adjust the level of pressure of the wings. Most often, a trunnion translation is performed clockwise. How to transfer windows to winter mode, if the accessories are non-standard? In this case, before adjusting the fittings, you need to pull the pins towards you like a clockwork mechanism on a wristwatch, adjust them, and then return them to their original position.
- Check the result. To do this, close the window to check how tight the handle turns. Winter mode involves more tightly pressing the sash, so the window handle will close more tightly.
You can check the force of the clip in a simple way: we take a sheet of paper and press it with a sash. Then you need to try to pull out the sheet. If the window is in winter mode, the sheet will be more difficult to pull out.
What are the difficulties?
Not all designs can be adjusted, so you need to pay attention to studying their features before deciding how to put windows in winter mode. The photo shows that this process, in fact, is simple, but you need to know if there are technical capabilities for adjusting window structures. We examine the flaps from the sides - this is where the holes are designed for the hex key. If there are no holes, then you need to either change the accessories, or choose a more durable seal.
Cooking surface
It is necessary to perform a series of actions before putting the windows into winter mode. The photo shows that the preparation process is simple:
- joints and joints at the ends of the valves are neatly cleaned with a damp cloth;
- internal mechanisms must be protected from contamination;
- the surface of the hardware is cleaned with a hard bristle brush;
- all rubbing parts must be wiped with a dry cloth;
- if the seal is worn, it must be replaced;
- the adjusting screw is lubricated with a silicone compound.
Exactly the same actions are taken before putting plastic windows into winter mode.
conclusions
Setting the modes is a necessary process, since only this guarantees the correct installation of the window structure. All activities are done carefully, without the use of force, so as not to damage either the frame or the sash. Experts say that when the flaps are snug against the frame and a new design is installed, a change of modes is most often not required. In other cases, you need to change the regime once every six months - from summer to winter, and vice versa.
Many modern designs have high-quality fittings that allow you to change modes. So if you don’t know how to set Rehau windows to winter mode, first look to see if there are trunnions on the wings, and then follow the instructions above.