At the time of buying plastic windows Always pay attention to whether the structure has a winter mode. Window installations from the Rehau company have been using such functions in production for a long time.

It is worth noting that not all windows can be switched to summer-autumn modes. This is typical for more expensive models that have not only opening and closing functions. Rehau windows just belong to this category of these products.

What are modes for?

In winter, windows should perform the function of retaining heat in the room. This is very important, because not all models are resistant to strong temperature drops. In summer, it is important that dust and dirt from the street do not enter the room, and that there is also access to fresh air.

To find out if your window design such functions, you need to inspect it. There should be a hole on the side of the sash, it is located on the trunnion.

Windows must be switched to winter mode in the following cases:

• if air begins to flow through the window, or the window is not resistant to cold temperatures in normal mode;
• if the window density cannot keep air out;
• The room temperature has become too low.

Windows from the manufacturer Rehau are quite easy to switch to winter mode; you just need to follow the instructions. First, you need to completely clean the window of dirt, especially the fittings. Cleaning can be done using a special brush.

If the lubricant on structural parts is outdated, replace it. This will significantly speed up the process and help you adjust the mode as accurately as possible. Then, start adjusting the necessary flaps. Find all the necessary pins on it (their number depends on the size of the window).

In order for the seal to press correctly, it is necessary to move all the levers. It is worth carefully inspecting all the trunnions, as modes may be marked on them. To turn the trunnions, use a screwdriver and pliers, or a hexagon. Turn each lever as far as possible.

To check if the operations were performed correctly, close the window. If the closing becomes tight, then the function is set. Try inserting a sheet of paper between the sash and frame. If the sheet was then pulled out without special effort, something was done incorrectly.

It is best to check the availability of modes immediately before purchasing windows. Then you will be advised on all issues and given a couple of tips on setting up functions.

Adjusting windows. Switching fittings to winter mode:

PVC windows have many advantages compared to conventional windows or other types of double-glazed windows. Take, for example, one of the most significant advantages is the setting of winter or summer mode. Not all plastic structures provide such modes, but many do.

The functionality of a window depends on the fittings it has. It may be functionally limited, or it may have many useful functions.

Hardware classes

Depending on the class of fittings, the ability of a PVC structure to transition or not to transition from one mode to another is determined - from winter to summer and vice versa. The quality and functions of the fittings depend on the class. The manufacturer is also important, but not so much.

The following classes (or types) are distinguished:

1. Budget. Fittings of this class are installed in windows with the lowest price. Allows you to only open and close windows.
2. Standard. Fittings are provided for PVC structures average price. Allows you to prepare windows for winter or summer.
3. Specialized. Such fittings can be combined with anti-burglary fittings. Allows you to configure the window to the required mode.

What are modes for?

Modes are needed for one simple reason - the weather outside is constantly changing. Winter is replaced by summer and vice versa. Accordingly, there is a constant drop or rise in temperature. Thanks to the ability to close the window more tightly or, conversely, less tightly, it becomes possible to adjust the “climate” of the room.

Summer mode

On summer period time, the main functions of PVC construction are to minimize the passage of heat, dust, dirt, and so on. This is why it was invented summer build. It allows you to adjust the pressing density of the sashes to maximum loosening, which is very important to do after a long winter. To do this, the nut is unscrewed counterclockwise, and the effect of the eccentric on the frame is thereby weakened.

Winter mode

During the winter period, you want to keep as much heat indoors as possible. To do this, the position of the eccentrics changes in the direction of “sealing” the PVC structure. By moving, they allow the sashes to be fixed more tightly to the frame insulation. By the way, during operation the insulation can wear out greatly, so it is important to make transfers of modes on time.

Transferring from one system to another can be done independently, but everything must be done carefully and slowly. An error in action may result in damage to the plastic structure. To avoid this, you can invite a specialist from the company or store where the PVC was purchased.

Blowing out of a plastic window can be caused by:

1. Poor compression of glass with glazing bead. This is especially true in winter, since materials tend to shrink when exposed to cold. Accordingly, the glazing bead can fly out of the grooves, and the glass, in turn, can fly out of the glazing bead. It should be replaced if necessary, but it is best to entrust this work to professionals.
2. Incorrect selection of fittings for the structure. If the rubberized seal is of uneven thickness or is pressed unevenly by mechanisms, then gaps may appear to allow cold air to pass through.
3. Poor quality material from which the profile is made. It may simply crack over time.
4. Incorrect installation of the frame. As a result, the doors may not function well and may not close properly.
5. By passing air at the junction of the frame and the vertical profile element. The gap should be sealed liquid plastic, which comes as a set to PVC.

Change modes or not

There are a number of reasons why the regime must be changed:

1. The doors begin to close when opened, or no longer open at all. This may be due to sagging of the sashes, which in turn are attached to the frame using hinges. It is also possible that the winter mode was set incorrectly using the adjusting screw.
2. The seal may wear out. In this case, dust and wind will freely penetrate into the room. If it is warm outside, then you should immediately replace the insulation gasket.
3. The sashes can also be shifted in the horizontal plane. This directly indicates that the setup was initially performed incorrectly.

One of the reasons was about the seal. So, in order to avoid its wear and tear, it is not always necessary to adjust the PVC structure specifically for the winter. When pressed tightly, the seal wears out greatly. Therefore, winter mode is necessary, but if possible, its use should be limited. It all depends on the weather; if the winter is windy with snowstorms and blizzards, then cold and frost will penetrate the house.

How to find out if a window can be set to winter mode

In order to find out functionality PVC structure, it is necessary to inspect it from the inner end. There should be a hole for a screwdriver in the handle area. If there is one, then the plastic window can be converted from one structure to another. But you also need to know that the hole must be suitable for a hexagon.

If it is oval-shaped, then there can be two options: either PVC is converted into summer and winter modes, or not. You need to check with the seller.

How to switch a window to winter mode and back

The transfer is carried out by performing the following steps:

1. To begin with, the inner end of the sash is inspected to find eccentrics. Their number may vary, but each one needs to be configured separately.
2. The eccentrics are moved primarily clockwise until the sash is tightly pressed against the seal. Here you need tools such as a wrench or pliers.
3. All that remains is to check whether all actions have been performed correctly. Here you will need a regular sheet of paper. He's being pinched PVC sash. If after this procedure, the sheet is easily removed from the gap between the sash and the frame, then the window still has a summer frame. If the sheet cannot be removed, the PVC is installed with a winter orientation in mind.

Thus, summer tuning is performed in reverse chronological order.

Step-by-step instruction

In general, the entire translation process is as follows:

1. Initially, the inner end surface of the valves is thoroughly cleaned. Should be given Special attention joints and connections. The end of the frame also needs to be cleaned. This is done to ensure that no dirt gets on the mechanisms or fittings of the doors.
2. The fittings themselves are additionally cleaned with a hard bristle brush.
3. Seals and surfaces that come into contact with them are wiped with a rag. This is necessary to remove old grease and dirt accumulated on it.
4. Seals can be replaced if necessary if they are worn out, for example, due to long or improper use.
5. Upon completion preliminary work eccentrics and hinges are lubricated with silicone.
6. Next, the trunnions are adjusted with a hexagon or screwdriver. They are turned in a certain direction, adjusting the pressure of the valves. Some types of eccentrics must first be pulled a certain distance from the end of the sash. They are turned by the protrusions and then returned to their original position.
7. The adjustment is now checked. If the trunnions are adjusted to winter mode, then when you turn the handle, it will function poorly. If you are configured summer mode, then the handle will turn easily.

Removing a worn seal:

1. The old rubberized gasket is removed from the frame grooves.
2. The profile must be wiped with a cloth, thereby removing dirt and dust.
3. The corners of the frame are filled special glue for rubber.
4. The grooves are laid with new insulation. This is done carefully, without tension.
5. All excess is cut off, and the joints of the seal are glued together.

Incorrect setting

First, a little about the correct setup:

1. A correctly adjusted window does not create any sounds during operation, for example, the sounds of rubbing parts or surfaces.
2. The parts responsible for the correct position of the sash in space should be located approximately the same.
3. The rubber gaskets between the sash and the frame must be elastic and easily return to their original shape after opening the sash.

The setup can be done independently, since no special knowledge or skills are needed. But it is still necessary to carry out all work carefully. Even with small adjustment errors, the window may break, therefore, urgent repairs will be required.

What needs to be done before starting adjustment work, and what can result from non-compliance with the rules:

1. You should find and use the instructions supplied with the PVC. If you randomly change the positions of the eccentrics, they may become unsuitable for further use and the entire adjustment mechanism may be disrupted. The pressure rollers and rubberized seal may also be damaged.
2. It's worth checking first technical condition window. If some parts are very worn, for example, a seal, then it will not be possible to adjust the winter mode. But you will be able to break the bolts.

Thus, seasonal modes have many advantages. They allow you to adjust the “climate” indoors, at home. Particularly relevant is winter adjustment, since constant drafts can cause a lot of trouble.

Transferring modes should not be done more often than once every six months. More frequent changes may cause wear of some parts of the PVC structure or even breakage. To ensure that breakdowns occur as rarely as possible or not at all, it is worth taking care of PVC construction. It must be cleaned and lubricated on time. Instructions contain detailed descriptions care instructions, the main thing is to follow them.

With the onset of cold weather, the issue of home insulation becomes more relevant than ever. Windows are the first thing that needs to be insulated, and for this, as it turns out, there is no need to reinvent the wheel.

Did you know that there is such a thing as summer and winter mode of plastic windows? If not, then the editor "So simple!" will tell you this small but very important secret!

How to switch plastic windows to winter mode

This little secret also helps you save a lot in winter. This is especially true in houses where there is no central heating, or at a time when it’s already cold outside, but the houses haven’t been given heat yet. Yes and saving money there won't be any redundancy. And this secret is that the seasonal regime in plastic windows can be changed.

© DepositPhotos

Seasonal window mode is an extremely useful thing, because in summer time This option allows you to relieve pressure between the outer part of the frame and rubber gasket, which allows air to circulate more freely. But in winter mode it works exactly the opposite - the pressure increases, the heat is retained inside.

© DepositPhotos

This is all good, but first you need to find out if your windows have the ability to change the seasonal mode. To do this, you need to look at the so-called eccentrics, in other words, the bolts on the side of the sash. If they have a hole for a hex key or they are oval-shaped, then these windows can be seasonally adjusted.

Overall the trick is extremely simple. You just need to turn the bolt to the right or left 90 degrees, depending on what mode you want to switch the windows to. Do all this carefully and carefully. First, find all the bolts on the sash; their number may vary depending on the size of the window or who the manufacturer is. You need to translate every eccentric, because otherwise you won’t get the result.

For change windowed mode you'll need suitable tool- screwdriver or hex key. Pliers can also work, but we do not recommend using them, as this can damage the fragile adjustment mechanism. It’s important to understand one thing here: you don’t need to turn the bolt all the way, it simply doesn’t have it. The bolt will scroll constantly, and you need to turn it exactly 90 degrees, guided by the mark.

© DepositPhotos

If you did everything correctly, the window handle should move more tightly, because the fittings now press the sash harder. If this does not happen, something went wrong, check that you have found and turned all the bolts.

To check how hard the window is pressed, you will need a piece of paper. Press it with the flap and try to remove it. If the leaf comes out difficult, the window is switched to winter mode. Well done!

This video contains visual instructions on how to switch windows to winter mode.

Plastic windows are a very convenient and practical thing, but they also require maintenance and adjustment. Now you know how to change the seasonal window mode, but that's not all. At least once a year you need to lubricate all moving parts window frame a small amount of oil. And also check how tightly the bolts are tightened. This check will take you a couple of hours, but the windows will always be like new.

And don’t forget to share our

Modern window systems, contrary to popular opinion, require constant maintenance. Of course, they do not need to be sealed for the winter or painted every season as is the case with their wooden counterparts. For full functioning, metal-plastic double-glazed windows need to be switched to a mode appropriate to the time of year. How to implement self-adjustment plastic windows for the winter? And how important is it to do this?

• 1 Seasonal maintenance
  • 1.1 Leak test
• 2 Switching winter/summer modes
  • 2.1 Why is this needed?
  • 2.2 Adjustment mechanisms
  • 2.3 How to switch
• 3 What other adjustment methods are there?
  • 3.1 Vertical position setting
  • 3.2 Horizontal adjustment
  • 3.3 Changing the degree of sash pressure
  • 3.4 Fit adjustment top corner
• 4 If the adjustments do not work

Seasonal Maintenance

main feature opening windows is that they do not have vents. For better ventilation of the room, the system provides rotary doors. During the operation of plastic double-glazed windows, you may notice that a draft appears in winter. Don't panic - this is not a manufacturing defect, but simply the seasonal mode is set incorrectly. Switching plastic windows to winter and summer modes is a mandatory maintenance procedure.

The tilt and turn mechanism of the glass unit must be adjusted depending on the season of the year

During long-term operation drafts are also possible. This occurs due to the loosening of the hinge screws of the rotary-locking 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 carry out a preventive inspection of the state of normal locking of the sashes in winter mode. Leak tightness can be checked in several ways:

• Tactile. By running your hand along the frame, you can determine the presence of serious drafts.
• Fire with a match or lighter. Deviation of the flame from the vertical indicates the presence of blowing.
• A sheet of paper. They leave him in the closed door and try to pull him out. If the leaf comes out easily, the sash does not close tightly.

If the paper sheet is easy to pull out through the sash, then the window is not airtight

Having determined problem areas, 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 adjust the settings - ideally twice a year.

Why is this necessary?

Seasonal adjustment is often forgotten, leaving the sash pressure in a neutral position. As with any violation of operating rules, 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 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 disrupted, including an increase in humidity levels (there is a risk of condensation and mold).

Read also: Reasons for fogging of plastic windows in winter
Improper operation may lead to the formation of condensation 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 you begin changing the mode, you need to determine the locations where the adjustment devices 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 of the sash required for the season.

They are on the ends metal-plastic window or doors. The number of such mechanisms may vary depending on the size and manufacturer of the glass unit (from two or more).

Locations of possible locations of eccentrics - at different manufacturers they are in different places

The trunnions may differ in appearance, but they perform the same adjusting function.

Options appearance eccentrics

At the edge of the eccentric there is a mark, which serves as an indicator of the desired mode. By default, it is set up - this is a neutral position, which needs to be changed in accordance with the season.

A line indicating the selected mode. How to switch

The process itself is quite simple, you only need one tool - a simple hexagon (usually 4 mm), or less often an asterisk.

You need to set plastic windows to 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 there is one eccentric 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 upward. 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 towards the outside of the room. With the onset of the warm season, the position of the marker should be moved by the mark inside the room. Accordingly, if there are several such regulators, then the modes are transferred 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, balance of ventilation and sufficient energy saving in your home.

What other adjustment methods are there?

If, when checking for tightness of the locking cold air still penetrates from above or below the sash, then most likely the problem is in incorrect alignment of the sash geometry.

The figure shows the main points where adjustments to the fittings may be required. The window design provides several adjustment options:

• horizontal and vertical shift;
• setting the position of the lower corner;
• degree of pressing against the frame.

Location of adjustment points

How are optimal modes set?

Setting the vertical position

This is done by setting bottom loop. Remove the protective cover. There are two adjustment points here - horizontal and vertical. 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 adjustmentHorizontal adjustment

To perform this operation, both loops must be configured.

The Russian climate is characterized by sharp temperature changes in the cold and warm seasons. The difference between summer highs and winter lows is tens of degrees. Plastic windows can be used at temperatures from −40 °C to 60 °C, so residents of most regions of our country do not have to worry about the ability of the window to withstand winter frost or summer heat. However, consumers must properly care for their windows to ensure they effectively protect the room from too low or too high temperatures.

Having prepared your window for winter, you can enjoy
comfort and warmth

Why prepare your window for winter?

Plastic windows require maintenance regardless of the time of year. For example, keeping windows clean is not just a matter of aesthetics and hygiene. By promptly removing dirt from windows, you prevent solid dirt particles from damaging the profile and glass. Therefore, the first step in preparing for winter is washing the windows.

Plastic translucent structures are mechanical systems, the mobility of which is ensured by fittings. Cleaning, lubricating and adjusting the fittings is the second stage of preparing windows for the cold season.

The thermal insulation properties of a window depend on the tightness of the sashes to the frame. Therefore, before winter it is necessary to clean rubber seals, check their integrity and lubricate with a suitable product. This is the third stage of preparing translucent structures for winter.

How to properly wash plastic windows before winter

Start preparing for winter by removing the mosquito net. Wash it under running water in the bathroom and clean it until spring.

If you have a window with a ventilation valve, close it during cold weather. However, do not forget about the need to regularly ventilate the room even in frosty weather. This is necessary to prevent the formation of condensation.

Drainage holes required
cleanse

To clean plastic windows, you must use microfiber cloths and soft detergents. Never use sponges with an abrasive layer, as they damage plastic and glass.

The detergent should not contain abrasive particles or chlorine. Also, do not use old newspapers to clean glass. They leave invisible scratches on the surface. Use a soap solution made with dishwashing detergent to clean the window.

Be sure to remove dirt from the drainage holes. They ensure the removal of moisture from the window, which prevents it from fogging and freezing. You can clean the drainage hole with a match or toothpick.

Be sure to wash the rubber seals with soapy water. Do not allow dirt and dust to remain between the seal and the profile. They can usually be easily removed with a damp cloth.

How to insulate plastic windows: deal with fittings

The fittings ensure the mobility of windows, as well as fixing the sashes in the desired position. Elements of fittings need to be cleaned from dirt and dust, as well as the application of protective lubricant. The fittings can be washed with a soap solution without abrasive particles and a soft cloth. Do not use for cleaning metal parts window treatments containing harsh chemicals.

After cleaning, wipe the fittings with a dry cloth and lubricate the moving parts machine oil. You can also use silicone oil or petroleum jelly.

The degree of fit depends on the position
eccentric

Now you need to adjust the fittings.

The degree of fit of the sash to the frame is adjusted using eccentrics or locking pins. They can provide strong, standard or medium pressure (see diagram).

In winter, it is necessary to adjust the trunnions in such a way that they provide maximum pressure on the sash. To do this, take a hex key and install the eccentric in the position indicated in the diagram. The loose fit mode should be used in the summer, while the standard fit is suitable for the off-season.

If you cannot install the eccentric in the desired position, contact the specialists who installed your window. Also call a professional if completely closed design obviously leaks air. This problem can usually be resolved by adjusting the hardware.

What to do with the seal

The seal needs to be washed
and lubricate

It was noted above that rubber seals ensure a tight fit of the sash to the frame. The consumer must ensure that the seal is clean and free of cracks and holes.

The seal is cleaned using a soft cloth and soap solution at the same time as washing the profile and glass unit.
After this, the seal must be wiped with a dry cloth and lubricated. Silicone oil should be used as a lubricant. It protects the rubber from cracking.

What else you need to know

Consumers also have other questions in the context of using plastic windows in cold period. The most common ones include the following:

Why do plastic windows leak in winter?

A plastic window can leak in two cases. Firstly, this is due to a violation of installation technology. If the installer did not ensure tightness assembly seams, the window will leak in the literal sense of the word. To eliminate this shortcoming, you need to contact the company that installed your window.

Secondly, consumers often talk about window leaks when in fact we're talking about about the formation of condensation. Moisture condenses on windows due to the large temperature difference between the glass and the air in the room. This happens when you choose the wrong glass unit, which does not provide sufficient thermal insulation. Moreover, a similar situation arises if warm air from the heating radiator does not reach the window due to the window sills being too wide. IN similar situations Consider replacing the window and/or sill.

Moisture condensation on windows also occurs due to high humidity in room. To solve this problem, ventilate the room several times a day.

Is it possible to install windows in winter?

During the cold season, the demand for plastic windows decreases. Window companies offer discounts to customers to compensate for forced downtime. Many consumers do not take advantage of this opportunity, believing that high-quality installation possible only in the warm season.

In fact, windows can be installed at temperatures down to −15 °C. In this case, specialists must use “winter” polyurethane foam, and also heat the insulating tapes to operating temperatures. The question remains of the temperature drop in the room in which the installation is being carried out. Indeed, the room remains without a window for several tens of minutes. If you have the opportunity to temporarily stay in a neighboring room, you don’t have to put off installing windows until spring. And if you live in one-room apartment, and even with a small child, it’s better to postpone installation work.

By the way, installing a plastic window in winter allows you to immediately identify and eliminate all shortcomings of the installation work. In the cold season, any draft indicating leaky seams will not go unnoticed.

You can quickly prepare your window for winter

If you have a suitable quality window, the installation work was carried out in compliance with technology, and the fittings were adjusted by professionals, then preparing for winter will not take you much time. It is enough to remove mosquito net, close ventilation valve, wash the window, lubricate the fittings and seals. After this, adjust the eccentrics to the maximum fit mode. Now you can brew tea and enjoy the comfort and warmth.