How to reconfigure plastic windows for winter mode. Adjusting plastic windows. Preparing plastic windows for winter: how to retain maximum heat

How to prepare plastic windows for winter?

Metal-plastic profiles – perfect solution for glazing of residential and premises. They perfectly protect the room from heat leakage, street noise, drafts and dust and have significant advantages over conventional wooden frames. Quality product can last 15-20 years without problems.

To avoid unforeseen inconveniences during operation, the PVC structure must be periodically maintained, namely: promptly switch to winter and summer mode. The main topic of our article is preparing plastic windows for the winter season. We assure you: it is not at all difficult and anyone can do it if you follow the list of recommendations below.

Let's start with cleaning

The first thing you need to do is wash the window thoroughly. This means not only double-glazed windows, but also profiles, window sills, and plastic-lined slopes. We strongly do not recommend using caustic or abrasive detergents! They can damage the plastic coating, leaving unsightly streaks of a darker or yellowish color on it. Clean with soft cleaning gels.

For safety reasons, you should not use a steel wool to remove dirt - it will probably scratch the plastic and its aesthetic appearance will deteriorate. You will need a soft flannel cloth, rags or sponge. It is worth washing not only the inside, but, if possible, the outside as well.

Pay special attention to the drainage channel. You can get rid of debris or debris stuck there by carefully using a regular toothpick. This will prevent water from stagnating in the drains and obstructing the movement of window sashes. To PVC windows served without problems in winter, it is also necessary:

And a little more about seals. They must be periodically lubricated with special lubricant or technical petroleum jelly. Timely care will help avoid drying out and freezing. But a preliminary inspection revealed wear and tear - don’t worry: replacing the seal is easy to do yourself.

Select the required option at construction market and install, after removing the old one (using a flat-head screwdriver). Seat It is advisable to treat it with lubricant. Afterwards, the entire area of the seal is covered with it.

Setting up window fittings for winter

Before the cold weather approaches, you need to adjust window fittings: the frame should be pressed more tightly against the glass unit: this is the only way to prevent drafts. To perform the action you will need a hex wrench. If you don't know how to adjust the fittings, use our tips.

The horizontal sides are adjustable by panels at the bottom and top. Take a closer look: they have a special hole for a hex key.
The top panel is adjusted when the window is open. Raising the edge is done by rotating the key to the right.
If the window is on the ground floor and can be reached from the outside, you will not have to open the sash. A loop located at the bottom allows you to adjust the vertical sides. To get to the hex hole, first remove the protective cap.
To increase the pressing force of the profile frame, you need to monitor the eccentrics. To do this, turn them to the right. The guide will be specially applied marks that determine the pressing force. Attention! If the mark is turned towards the seal, the pressure is strong. Often the eccentric is turned with ordinary pliers.
In the places where the loops go, there are devices responsible for the clamping force. How to recognize it? That's why the tongue protrudes so much. The longer, the stronger the pressure of the frame against the window. Measurements are usually made with a hex wrench.
Under no circumstances apply strong pressure to the tongue! This will inevitably lead to rapid wear and complete failure of the window seal.
Do not neglect adjusting the hinges when switching the PVC structure to winter mode. Pay attention to bottom loop Most manufacturers provide a protective cap that is removable. After this, a special bolt is screwed in.

If you have carried out these manipulations, the adjustment of plastic windows for winter is completed. Everything is quite simple: the main thing is to be careful and consistent. But it also happens: everything is done correctly, but the window still does not retain heat well, and a draft penetrates into the room. Why this happens and how to correct the situation - we will tell you further.

Preparing plastic windows for winter: how to retain maximum heat?

Does the PVC profile retain heat poorly, let noise through, and does condensation accumulate on the glass unit? A depressurization has occurred that requires immediate intervention. The most common causes of the problem:

Shrinkage of the walls occurred after the plastic windows were installed. Solving the problem is easy - just adjust the fittings.
The seal has outlived its useful life. The replacement we wrote about above will help here.
The junction of the slope and the frame is not airtight. You will have to remove the slopes, insulate them and install them back. If you do not have enough experience to carry out this manipulation, invite a specialist.

Single-chamber and double-chamber double-glazed windows in extreme cold require additional insulation. It can be produced using film, preferably frost-resistant. For high-quality insulation you need to know that:

Pasting the film indoors, not outside outside windows are the most efficient and energy saving.
When gluing the film, control the uniformity and tension force. If this is not done, breakthroughs may occur.
There is no need to replace the film for minor damage. Carefully seal the breaks with tape.
The best option– frost-resistant film (has high density and a characteristic yellowish tint). We do not recommend buying it on the market. It makes more sense to visit a large one hardware store, selling certified products from trusted manufacturers.
At the same time durable and quite decorative, greenhouse film is used for gluing the window on the side of the room. And also - it is durable.
Do not use for fixing construction stapler or push pins! They tear the material. All you need is tape.

IN Lately Eco-friendly and reliable PVC insulation is used. It is resistant to deformation and severe frosts. We hope we have comprehensively talked about how to prepare euro windows for winter and have been useful. Good luck!

Today, almost every home is equipped with plastic windows. Of course, this greatly simplified the lives of many residents. Metal-plastic structures are strong, easy to use, reliable, and durable. However, all these advantages do not negate the fact that plastic windows, like regular ones, require constant care. In order for them to serve you faithfully, save heat, protect from blowing, they need to be repaired on time, as well as the necessary maintenance.

With the arrival of the cold season, you need to make sure that your plastic windows are ready for winter. Proper preparation of windows for winter is, although not very difficult, but still an important undertaking. If it is not carried out in advance, then metal-plastic structures simply physically will not be able to provide what the owners expect from them.

So, preparing plastic windows for winter is divided into three stages:. We'll talk about them now.

Check, clean and lubricate

In order for any mechanism to serve for a long time, it must be looked after and not allowed to become dirty. Likewise, before each change of season, plastic windows should first be thoroughly washed. This should be done using a regular sponge and gentle detergents. You should wash the glass itself, slopes, profiles, window sills, sashes - everything that touches metal plastic construction. Moreover, this needs to be done from both sides. Proper preparation of PVC windows for winter also includes cleaning the drainage channels. If this is not done, then in the autumn-winter time water will begin to accumulate here.

Now you should pay attention to the fittings. What to look for there? Dirt and old grease mixed with dust. All fittings must be thoroughly cleaned of grease, dust and dirt. After this, it must be washed. Once all the moving elements of the mechanism are clean, you can safely begin lubrication. You can use both imported and domestic lubricants for window fittings. Ordinary solid oil is also suitable for these purposes.

Important! Never use to lubricate fittings. edible oils. The fact is that they dry out quite quickly, after which they turn into a sticky resemblance to sandpaper. In such conditions, the window mechanism will not work for more than a year.

Preparing plastic windows for winter with your own hands includes one more step - checking the rubber seal. If the window begins to let in noise from the street, if it begins to seep through from under the sash, if dust and dirt from the street begins to accumulate on the window sill, then the seal has probably become unusable. In principle, you can try to revive him. To do this, thoroughly clean and then lubricate. The sealing gum is treated with silicone grease or with technical petroleum jelly. If you are wondering how to prepare plastic windows for winter, then try starting with the sealant. In fact, such a small rubber band is really responsible for important functions. If the seal cannot be restored, then simply...

Don’t know how to do it, and don’t want to delve into it? In this case, you can turn to Heat at Home for help. Our company’s specialists will not only replace the seal, but also fully prepare plastic windows for winter in Moscow and the region. You can contact an online consultant right now.

Prepare your windows for winter: correct adjustment

Did you know that plastic windows need to be adjusted both with the onset of cold weather and with the arrival of warm days? This is the so-called. Now we are interested in the first case: how to prepare plastic windows for winter yourself using adjustments. the main objective– press the sash harder against the frame in order to completely eliminate the occurrence of drafts.

If your plastic windows classify themselves as adjustable, and this can be determined by the presence of a hexagon hole in the trunnion, then, in principle, you can start converting your metal-plastic structures in winter mode. And this is done quite easily:

The first step is to lift the fittings roller.
Use a hex key to adjust the clamping distance.
Then you should install the raised roller in place.
Next, this same roller should be turned towards the room.
These manipulations must be done with all the rollers.
It happens that after the event to switch to winter mode, the fastening of the handle weakens. To fix this, turn plastic plate next to the handle 90 degrees and just tighten the screws.
It also happens that after tightening the handle begins to turn with difficulty. To fix this, you need to lubricate the entire fitting mechanism, for example, with machine oil.

Note. You can get to the lower and upper rollers, as well as the roller on one side, only by opening the sash. As for the roller on the second side of the sash, you can only get to it through the “ventilation” position.

We insulate ourselves correctly

As you understand, preparing windows for winter does not end with just washing and adjusting; you can also use heavy artillery. If the window begins to retain heat poorly and leaks, then the first thing the owners will think about is insulation. However, this is not entirely correct solution, because first you need to figure out why the plastic structure needed insulation in the first place. Here are the most common:

Sealing rubber fell into disrepair.
The joint between the slope and the frame was depressurized.
The glass unit has become depressurized.
The fittings require adjustment.

Having eliminated all the faults, it may be possible to avoid measures related to the insulation of the window structure. High-quality repair and adjustment - better preparation plastic windows for winter.

If you are still serious about insulating the window, then very in a good way will use of film. Yes, the window immediately loses its aesthetic appearance, but the room will be much warmer in winter than it was before. This is due to a reduction in heat loss. The film can be attached around the entire perimeter of the window, as with inside, and from the outside. After fastening, you should check that the film is stretched evenly.

Help in preparing plastic windows for winter

If for some reason you cannot or do not want to prepare plastic windows for the cold season on your own, you can turn to the specialists of the Teplo Doma company for help. Our experts will come and inspect everything and issue a verdict. And you may not have to insulate the windows, because everything can be limited, for example, to adjusting or replacing the seal.

Metal-plastic windows and doors are modern designs, which require periodic attention in terms of preventive operations. Of course, there is no need to cover the gaps between double-glazed windows and frames for the winter or paint the windows, as is required wooden crafts. But there are some positions that must be fulfilled. And the main one is adjusting plastic windows winter-summer with your own hands.

Seasonal service

Main design feature plastic windows - no vents. Because the doors may not close completely, leaving a gap through which the rooms are ventilated. In addition, the opening system has a mechanism that provides a small gap between the frames. It is through it that constantly flows into the rooms from the street. Fresh air. The gap is actually small, it is impossible to detect it visually. But the draft feels good.

Depending on the time of year, it is necessary to adjust the tilt-and-turn mechanism of the plastic window:

Those who do not know that such a mechanism is installed in the window structure begin to panic, believing that defective windows were used. But this is not so, it’s just that the seasonal mode was not transferred from summer to winter. Although it should be noted that a draft can appear for other reasons. For example, the rubber gaskets have dried out or the screws of the hinges of the rotary-locking mechanism have become loose. There is no need to call a professional to eliminate drafts. This process is not complicated, and doing it yourself is not a problem.

Leak test

Adjusting a plastic window for the winter begins with determining whether there is a gap. This can be determined in three ways:

Move your hand near the sash, which is pressed against the frame. If you feel a slight breeze of cold air, it means there is a gap.
Bring a flame of fire (a lit lighter or match) to the same place. If the flame deviates towards the room, it means there is a draft.
You need to insert a sheet of paper between the sash and the frame. Close the flap and try to pull out the sheet. If it comes out easily, then there is a gap; if it doesn’t come out, there is no gap.

Thus, it is necessary to walk along the entire perimeter of the sash and determine where the gap appears. And only after that proceed to adjustment. If a sheet of paper inserted between the sash and the frame is easily pulled out, this indicates a gap:

Switching winter/summer modes

Please note that when PVC installation Window installers set the parameters for locking the sashes in the neutral position. That is, this is neither winter nor summer mode. This is done in order to ensure maximum functionality of the window structure. You will have to make the adjustment yourself based on whether it’s winter outside or summer. Let's add that winter mode can be used in summer period, and summer cannot be installed in winter.

Why is this necessary?

It’s not for nothing that manufacturers installed a mode switching mechanism. In this way, the service life of the plastic window is increased. If you position the sash incorrectly, you can get into serious trouble:

winter mode is a tight fit of the sash to the frame and strong compression rubber gasket, which quickly fails;
a draft will cause serious heat loss in winter if the sash is not adjusted correctly;
increased humidity in the absence of a gap, leading to the appearance of mold and fungi.

Incorrectly set operating mode will lead to the formation of condensation on the glass:

Adjustment mechanisms

Before you adjust plastic windows for winter mode yourself, you need to decide where the adjustment mechanisms (trunnions or eccentrics) are located. Their number may vary (minimum two), but they should be located at the ends of the plastic window.

Trunnion locations:

It should be noted that the eccentrics have different manufacturers windows are usually different from each other. But they have one purpose – adjustment and setting of modes.

Appearance of some eccentric models:

Pay attention to the photo above, where you can clearly see that there is a risk on each eccentric. It is this that shows the installed position of the trunnion. By default, it is set to the top position, which is also neutral.

The risk shifted from the neutral position shows the set mode:

How to switch

The instructions and diagram for switching from neutral to winter or summer mode are very simple. To do this, you will need either a hex key or an asterisk. You can use a simple slotted screwdriver.

Attention! You need to switch to winter mode before the onset of cold weather, when the street temperature is not lower than +5C.

First of all, you need to prepare, that is, find the adjusting eccentrics. One of them must be located on the side of the sash, the second on the upper end.

Risk for which adjustment is made:

Based on the position of the mark, you need to switch the trunnion. If the door looks towards the street, it means that the euro-window is set to winter mode. If it points towards the room, it means it’s in the summer. By turning the mechanism in one direction or the other, changing position, you can set it to either winter or summer mode. In this case, all regulators must turn in the same direction.

It is necessary to change the settings of a metal-plastic window, taking into account the season. This is how the most balanced indoor microclimate is achieved, the ventilation of the house works effectively, and such indicators as energy saving increase.

Watch the video - how to switch plastic windows to winter mode with your own hands.

What other adjustment methods are there?

Adjusting the sash does not always solve the problem of drafts. The reason is the incorrect geometry of the sash relative to the frame. Therefore, regulation will have to be carried out using window fittings.

There are three positions by which you can configure the window:

displacement of the sash vertically and horizontally;
setting the lower angle relative to the window frame;
the degree of pressing of the sash to the frame (tightly or not).

The photo below shows the positions of how to do this correctly.

Setting points – locations:

Setting the vertical position

You will have to adjust the bottom loop. There are two screws here: on top and on the side. To adjust the vertical position, you need to remove the protective cap from the top screw and tighten it. If you need to raise the sash, you need to tighten the screw clockwise, if you need to lower it, you need to tighten it counterclockwise.

Vertical adjustment:

Horizontal adjustment

To do this, you need to tighten the side screw. From left to right - the sash moves towards the hinge, from right to left - towards the frame.

Horizontal adjustment:

There may also be a leak at the upper corner of the sash. To do this, you will have to adjust the top hinge, where the screw is located on the side.

Setting the upper corner pressure:

Changing the degree of sash pressure

A clamping mechanism must be installed in the design of plastic windows. Its main purpose is to resist pressing the sash from the street side away from the frame. That is, this is anti-burglary fittings. Clockwise rotation provides a tight seal due to the retractable tongue.

The clamping mechanism is used to tightly press the sash to the frame:

Adjusting the top corner fit

There is another option how to press top corner. To do this, you need to press the lock on the end of the sash, as shown in the photo below (Rehau windows).

Tongue and lock for adjusting the pressure:

How to do this step by step:

the blocker must be pressed,
set the window handle to the ventilation position,
after which the upper edge of the sash must be pulled towards you.

Please note that one of the plates has space for a hex key. This is the screw that regulates the pressure.

The long service life of plastic windows leads to minor problems associated with the appearance of drafts. As you can see, solving them is not difficult. But if you have doubts that you cannot cope with the tasks at hand, then it is better to call a specialist.

If the adjustment does not work

Adjusting window sashes and switching them to seasonal modes does not always guarantee a complete absence of problems. Drafts, condensation, and freezing still accompany their operation.

What are the reasons:

defective window structure itself;
incorrect installation;
lack of finishing on the slopes of the opening;
wear of rubber seals.

All these problems must be eliminated.

In order for your plastic windows to last as long as possible, retain their functions and attractive appearance, it is enough to devote just one day to caring for the windows before the onset of winter cold, reports the WINDOWS MEDIA portal.

PVC windows, which replaced the not-so-perfect wood structures of the last century, also made them much easier to care for. However, this does not mean that modern Euro-windows eliminate the need for cleaning and other procedures.

This process is less labor-intensive, but is still a necessary annual procedure on the eve of the onset of cold and frosty days. Depending on the region of the Russian Federation, this period may vary, but not be ignored. To care for windows before winter, you need to devote one day and include a few simple steps: dismantling mosquito net, washing double-glazed windows and frames, lubricating and adjusting window fittings, processing or replacing seals, as well as changing window decor.

It is no secret that in order for window frames to remain in impeccable condition for many years, it is necessary to follow the rules of caring for them. Particular attention should be paid to PVC windows before the winter season, which is harmful to them, so that they survive cold period without any damage or loss to your family budget.

Save as much daylight as possible

As you know, in winter the days become shorter, and let in the maximum daylight to a house that is so scarce during the cold season, this is one of the main tasks facing the homeowner. Today it has become the norm to install mosquito nets, but if summer time This is a very useful accessory, but with the onset of cold weather it loses its functionality. Therefore, before proceeding with other procedures, it must be removed - the mosquito net can be easily dismantled. This measure also prolongs its life, since under the influence of precipitation in low temperatures, the structure of the mosquito net can be damaged.

The removed mesh should be vacuumed, washed with warm soapy water, dried and stored in the pantry before the onset of warm days. Please pay Special attention Make sure that the place where you store the removed mosquito net is free from rodents, since in the spring there is a possibility of encountering an annoying nuisance - the net may be damaged by insidious mice.

Caring for fittings is the key to the health and longevity of the entire window

The main mistake that is deeply rooted in the minds of users is the belief that taking care of windows consists only of washing the double-glazed windows. In contrast to diligent glass cleaning, cleaning the frame is often considered very superficially, while elements such as fittings are often simply ignored completely.

It is important to note that the fitting mechanisms (in the places indicated on the fittings) must be lubricated at least once a year with special oil. Otherwise, the fittings system may begin to slow down. At regular maintenance window fittings ensure quiet and smooth operation of the system.

To lubricate, open the window frame, place several newspapers under it (so as not to stain the window sill) and dig through the existing holes in the locks. It is recommended to start at the top and gradually move down. Don't try to fill the grooves too much a large number of lubricating fluid, because in any case it won’t all fit, and its excess will spill out. After completing this procedure, you should open and close the window several times - for ventilation and completely. This will allow the oil to distribute evenly throughout all moving parts of the locks.

Remember that special products are designed to care for the fittings, such as aerosol oil, available in specialized stores. Today, special compositions are offered that form a protective filter, which ensures the normal functioning of the window and also protects the fittings from wear.

Caring for seals does not tolerate windiness

Another feature that deserves special attention is the rubber (silicone) seals installed in the windows for better tightness and thermal insulation of the system. This element of the window system is located around the perimeter of the window and protects the house from drafts, and also provides better pressure on the window sashes, even in the most low temperatures. To perform all these functions, it is important that the seals retain their elasticity for as long as possible.

Experts warn not to overlook the fact that during a cold month, window seals that are not properly prepared tend to freeze. That is why, before the onset of winter, the seals should be treated with a special liquid, which ensures their flexibility, increased strength and durability. The rubber bands on the frame and the opening sash should be lubricated. There are various lubricants for this purpose, one of the most accessible is technical Vaseline, you can also spray a cloth with silicone lubricant from a can and rub all available rubber window seals. This procedure will allow the rubber to last longer, remain soft and better retain heat in the house.

As with window fittings, Maintenance rubber seals should be carried out at least once a year, but experts recommend performing these procedures twice – in autumn and spring.

If, however, the inspection shows that cracks have formed on the surface of the seal and the material has become soft or brittle, then it must be replaced immediately. If you have no experience in carrying out such work, it is better to entrust the replacement of the window seal to a specialist.

Balm on the frame

Another aspect to consider when preparing your vinyl windows for the winter months is a window frame cleaning product. Most people use it for PVC cleaning profiles are improvised products available in the house and are not intended for caring for them, since they contain an alkaline pH. At first glance, they remove dirt from the surface of the profile and window sill, but their use is not recommended. Despite obtaining a clean surface, there is a high risk of damage to the anti-corrosion coating of the fitting systems.

It is therefore necessary to use products specifically designed for this purpose when caring for windows. Products that have an alkaline or acidic pH should definitely be avoided. For window profiles It is necessary to use products that have a neutral pH and do not have a destructive effect on the surface.

Today it is possible to purchase special lotions that will not only effectively clean the profile, but also form a shell that prevents re-contamination of the surface

Adjusting fittings is a panacea for high bills and elevated body temperature

A common problem among PVC window users is a loose window handle. To tighten it, turn the handle to the “open” position (parallel to the window sill), turn the handle cover located at the base 90 degrees. There are two screws under the trim that need to be tightened with a Phillips screwdriver.

Also a necessary action on the eve of winter is to check the clamping density window sash. For this purpose, you should insert a regular sheet of paper into the sash door and close it. Ideally, a sheet of paper can be removed quite easily, with minimal effort. The smooth removal of paper from under the seal is an indication that the window fittings need to be reconfigured to “winter mode”.

To do this, the sash opens and on the end part (at the installation site of the fittings system) there are roller pins. In principle, in windows from different manufacturers they may differ in appearance, but, as a rule, in production they always set the middle position. Now you should insert a hex key into the roller journal and turn it so that maximum pressure is ensured. In this way, the fittings are transferred to the required mode corresponding to the winter season. Close the sash. Evidence of correct adjustment will be an increase in the force on the handle, and the sash will now close more tightly.

With the onset of the spring thaw, the fittings should be adjusted again to avoid premature wear of the seals.

Yes! – use of cosmetic kits for plastic windows

To achieve the desired effect, it is advisable to use detergents and lubricants specially designed for this purpose. Therefore, in order to keep PVC windows in the best condition, especially in winter, it is necessary to purchase a full range of professional products that will help in the care and maintenance of all structural systems.

Today, window market companies offer sets of several products, for example, spray for the care of double-glazed windows, cleaning milk for white PVC, liquid for the care of seals, lubricant for fittings, usually equipped with a special antistatic cloth. Using such cosmetic kits for plastic windows will allow you to enjoy the ideal condition of your windows for as long as possible, regardless of the season.

Attention to detail will save windows from “winter tears”

With the onset of winter, many users of sealed PVC windows are concerned about the issue of condensation caused by a significant difference in temperature outside and in the apartment. To minimize this effect, you should pay attention to the location of the heat source, the adjustment of the ventilation system and the condition of the drainage holes.

The heat source should be located directly under the window to allow access warm air from the battery to the windows.

If the windows have ventilation valves, then before the onset of cold weather they should be closed, since ice may accumulate in them. Should be cleaned ventilation holes and arrange 10-minute airings two to three times a day.

In addition, it is recommended that all users of plastic windows regularly monitor the condition of the drain holes in the frame to prevent them from clogging. Drainage holes help clear the window if condensation accumulates in it. Concerning winter period, then the probability of condensation increases markedly, resulting in fogging and icing of the window. Therefore, it is very important to thoroughly clean the drainage holes from accumulated debris and dust on window frames and sashes. You should also check the condition of the drainage channels on the outside of the frame and clean them if necessary. It is recommended to clean the drain holes using a wooden or plastic stick or a vacuum cleaner.

Seasonal change of window decorations is an element of aesthetics and energy efficiency

Before the cold weather sets in, designers recommend acquiring a set of “winter” accessories for your windows. These include roller shutters and curtains made from more thick fabric, as well as external blinds, which will also contribute to heat retention and giving warm notes to the entire interior. In particular, bright curtains will be able to please the eye, providing a contrast to the early winter twilight.

Concluding the topic on an aesthetic note, I would like to note that for the illustrations of this article, flowers against the background of a winter window were used for a reason. The riot of colors of flowers on the windowsill is the most reliable indicator proper preparation plastic windows for winter.

When installing plastic windows, the technician can set any mode. Experts focus on the season, but it is still recommended to find out information regarding the clamping force, because this affects the degree of wear of the structure.

Table 1. Adjustment modes for plastic windows.

Type	Description
Summer	The polymer seal is not under pressure. The sash fits tightly to the surface without gaps, but does not press the rubber too much. The advantage of this method of operation is the ability to use the seal for many years. Thus, even a plastic structure can shrink and expand depending on weather conditions, while the welded joints are not subject to heavy loads.
Standard	This method involves minimal pressure on the seal, so there will be no drafts or noise in the room. In some regions of our country, this regime is set all year round. However, the rubber will wear out much faster.
Winter	In this case, the rubber is under high pressure. This can be recognized by the characteristic (tight) turning of the handle to the side. If you use this mode constantly, the seal will quickly lose its shape and will have to be replaced. So, if, after pressing, you switch the windows to summer or standard mode, then drafts will appear.

Of all the possible ones, only the “summer” mode is considered gentle - this means that it does not contribute to tire wear. Therefore, if residents do not experience discomfort, then it can be used all year round- this way it will be possible to extend the service life of the seal.

However, there are reasons why it is recommended to constantly change the seal pressure:

draft— it is unlikely that residents will like the appearance of cold air from the window in winter and dust in the summer;
problems when opening and closing the sash- in case of wrong established mode the sash sometimes jams;
sash window sagging— occurs as a result of wear of the hinges, this problem can be solved by switching to strong pressure mode;
loss of warm air- windows are adjusted to save money on heating;
mold on window frame and slopes- this problem is associated with excessive dampness due to poor sealing.

There are some rules for using modes:

Types of control mechanisms

Adjustment of one or another mode can be done using special mechanisms called trunnions (eccentrics). They are located on the sides and upper outer parts of the sash. However, they may have different appearance, placement, shape - this depends on the manufacturer of the double-glazed window and its cost.

Common types of eccentric mechanisms:

It should be taken into account that not in all cases, adjustment mechanisms are installed in double-glazed windows. Most often they are not available in the most budget options.

In addition, eccentrics differ depending on the manufacturer. Let's look at the most famous options.

Table 2. Types of mechanisms from various manufacturers.

Stamp, illustration	Description
	The eccentric mechanisms on such windows are quite massive and have an oval shape. Therefore, to adjust them you can use wrench or pliers.
	This manufacturer produces the most durable fittings, according to both experts and users. You can adjust it with a hexagon or screwdriver.
	In this case, the locking mechanism is convex, and to adjust it, you will need a volume wrench.

Adjusting plastic windows for winter mode

Switching windows from one mode to another is simple, but you will have to pay attention to each stage. Some people are completely afraid to perform this procedure, so they use the services of a company that installs windows. If there is a lot of pressure, the rubber quickly becomes unusable, and you can unknowingly ruin an expensive one. But if you approach the process thoughtfully, there will be no problems.

Adjusting trunnions on metal-plastic windows: step-by-step instructions

Step one: First you need to find where the trunnions are located. Usually their number depends on the dimensions of the structure. However, most often there are three of them on one side (where the handle is located) and one on the other side.

Step three: Now you need to wipe the lubricant elements with a cloth, and then apply it to the surface

Step four: Now you should examine the condition of the trunnions, find marks on them and turn them to the desired position.

Step five: Upon completion of installation, you need to check the tightness again using a paper sheet, as we described above.

Note! Some companies make windows with recessed trunnions, so you will need to pull them out with the same pliers before making adjustments. Otherwise, this procedure resembles changing a clock.

If necessary, you can loosen the eccentrics in the same way, which means switching the windows to summer or standard mode. It is enough to do this procedure several times, and you will definitely not confuse the modes.

Prices for plastic windows

Plastic windows

Video – Adjusting windows by mode

Alternative ways to adjust windows

There are cases when, after switching to the “winter” mode, drafts are still observed. Most often this happens when some parts of the sash are distorted. A similar problem occurs over time when the glass unit wears out.

To set correct location for the sash, you need to find the location of the adjustment screws.

Tools you will need are a hex wrench and a flat-head screwdriver. Just first you need to remove the caps that are located on top of the hinges - it is better to do this at a time when the sash is slightly open.

Table 3. Alternative methods adjustment of plastic windows.

Method, illustration	Description
	It is necessary to turn the screw from above on the bottom hinge. To lift the sash, turn it to the right.
	Adjustment is carried out by turning the last screw on the hinge from below. When turning to the right, the frame moves a little closer to the hinges. Because the fastener located next to a slope, it can be difficult to get to.
	This adjustment is made by turning the bottom screw of the bottom hinge. It is not installed on all windows. Do not confuse it with the previous screw.
	You will need to rotate the upper axle. To do this, the window is opened in several positions at once: tilting and rotating. If the mark on the eccentric is directed towards the sash, then the seal is pressed as much as possible.
	During the use of a double-glazed window, these structural elements unwind, so they should be adjusted.

You should not make many turns at once, because you need to constantly monitor the position of the sash so as not to overtighten or loosen. Experts do not recommend using such adjustment methods for users who have no experience in this area - without calculating the force, you can easily damage the window design. Upon completion of this process, it is necessary to ensure that the sash does not cling to the plastic frame.

The handle does not turn to the desired position: repair features

This problem occurs for the following reasons:

After long-term operation the structure needs cleaning and lubrication, so it must be disassembled small parts, remove dirt, and then lubricate with oil and a thin brush.
If the handle turns only up to a certain point and then jams, you should slightly loosen the sash clamp. In this case, the trunnions that are located nearby are rotated. There are hinges on the other side; it is also recommended to adjust the bolts in them.

The handle is blocked: adjustment method

Some users, when the handle is blocked, rush to replace it with a new one, but this is not always necessary. In this case, you don’t even need to unscrew it and disassemble it into parts, because the problem is related to the locking device, which prevents the sash from changing position in open form. You just need to turn the lever to the side.

There are two ways to fix this problem. So, in the first case, the lever is located at an angle to the rubber (in the form of a tongue). In the second case, it looks like a clamp that is located above the seal.

Handle breakage

If the handle is broken, then it will no longer be possible to return it to its previous appearance - all that remains is to purchase a new one. It is not difficult to dismantle the previous one, just unscrew the screws and pull it towards you. Next, all that remains is to attach the new handle.

Prices for various types of handles for plastic windows

Handle for plastic window

Difficulties in adjustment

There are some mistakes that users often make when switching to “winter” mode:

It is not recommended to move a completely new double-glazed window into this position, because with strong compression the rubber can be irrevocably deformed.
The compression of the seal must be the same on each side, so this should be checked with the same sheet of paper - this common reason rubber damage.

Sometimes even with correct adjustment windows the following problems occur:

drafts;
condensation accumulation;
hypothermia of the room.

Such troubles are preceded by reasons:

Factory design defect. This happens in exceptional cases, especially when ordering windows from suspicious companies.
Installation errors. Window installation should only be trusted by a qualified craftsman, because you will need to maintain the correct gaps, carefully connect all the elements, and also use polyurethane foam.
Lack of slope finishing. After installing the windows you will need finishing slopes - polyurethane foam loses strength when exposed to humid air or sunlight.
The seal has become unusable. Even if this is a relatively new window, the rubber may lose its elasticity within a couple of seasons (if used improperly).

Features of restoration and replacement of seals (rubber bands)

Unfortunately, over time, all elements of a plastic window fail, and in particular the elastic ones. polymer seals. The cause of this problem is pollution, dampness, and lack of regular lubrication.

If the elastic bands are no more than four to five years old, then you can try to revive them. To do this, you will need to dismantle the seals, then take a few rags and thoroughly soap them. Products are wrapped in these rags and left in this form for several hours. Sometimes such an experiment allows one to achieve stunning results, so it is allowed to be carried out for the purpose of “prevention”.

The need to replace sealing strips arises in the following cases:

loss of color;
the appearance of “bumps” on the surface;
multiple cracks.

In this case, all that remains is to purchase a new one - usually its thickness ranges from 3 to 6.5 millimeters. Most often, manufacturers guarantee a service life of up to 10 years, but in practice the rubber dries out much earlier.

Note! A high-quality seal should not become an obstacle to the circulation of oxygen, so you need to look at its composition - it must be breathable.

Prices for seals for plastic windows

Sealant for plastic windows

Video - Replacing the seal

Let's sum it up

Every person can cope with adjusting plastic windows according to the season, because this process is not difficult. Moreover, you will only need a minimum set of devices, which can be found in the arsenal of any master.

Otherwise, changing modes is a mandatory procedure that will avoid overcooling the room and rapid wear of the seal. It is recommended to use the window carefully - avoid twisting the handles and overloading the sashes.

To remove glazing beads from a plastic window, no special skills are required, you will learn simple ways dismantling and installation of glazing beads, and you can also read the step-by-step instructions.