Winter position of plastic. Proper preparation of plastic windows for winter with your own hands. It is customary to distinguish three main types
Adjusting plastic windows according to the “winter-summer” principle is a fairly simple procedure. You can do it yourself without the help of specialists. What will save your money and keep your home warm and cozy all year round. It will also extend the life of your windows.
This adjustment of plastic windows is carried out by the method: weakening or increasing the degree of pressing of the sash, by changing the position of the trunnions.
Winter and summer have different degrees.
There is such a concept as “winter-summer mode” on plastic windows.
This means that the adjustments on plastic windows in winter and summer should be completely different. Let's take a closer look at these types of window adjustments.
Example of window adjustment in video
adjustment of plastic windows
Thanks to the ability to adjust plastic windows in the “winter-summer” mode, you can increase the air flow into warm time year and reduce - in cold weather.
Adjusting plastic windows “winter-summer” is quite simple.
The entire process involves the use of an off-center cylinder that presses the sash against the window frame– eccentric (trunnion).
adjustment of plastic windows
It is turned using the necessary screwdriver, and in some windows - manually, slightly pulling it towards you.
The manufacturer provides the so-called “middle” position of the eccentric roller,
adjustment of plastic windows
which is also called “autumn-spring”. In this case, the pressing of the window sash is sufficient, but not excessive.
Adjusting the window before the winter season
As the temperature drops, especially during the transitional heating period, use the “maximum pressure” window adjustment to achieve minimal heat loss.
The “winter” position of the eccentric loads the seal as much as possible. For this reason, it is not recommended for recently installed new . In addition, while receiving minimal ventilation, the room loses additional opportunity ventilation, because in winter it is rarely used, and sometimes completely absent.
On the other hand, the “winter” position of the trunnion increases the load on the seal. And this, in turn, will not harm the not-new window when it has somewhat lost its elasticity.
Adjusting the window with “maximum pressure” is extremely undesirable, because The sealing material retains deformation and may not return to its original position. And this is fraught with its rapid wear.
Therefore, the longer this eccentric position is used, the greater the likelihood of quickly replacing the seal.
To ensure maximum pressure it is necessary:
- pull the pin towards you a little
- move it to the right with rotational movements,
- (so that the gap between the eccentric roller and the edge of the sash fittings is minimal).
- If there is a notch on the roller, then if positioned correctly, it will be directed towards the seal.
Adjusting windows for the summer season
The end of the heating season usually occurs in fairly warm weather, so the load on the seal is eased using the “summer” mode.
In this case, the impact on the seal is minimal. Therefore, this position of the eccentric is welcome for any windows.
Adjusting the trunnion according to this principle slightly increases the air circulation in the room. However, this begs the question about the need for such a transition, because Windows are ventilated very often in summer.
To ensure minimal pressure, adjust the window to summer season should be done like this:
- the eccentric should be pulled back slightly
- move it to the left with rotational movements,
- so that the gap between the trunnion and the edge of the sash fittings is maximized.
- If there is a notch on the roller, and in the correct position, it will be directed towards the window handle.
What does adjusting a plastic window “winter-summer” do?
Thus, the “winter-summer” adjustment can preserve and extend the service life of a plastic window. However, the degree of pressure must be increased gradually, from year to year. Only this principle will allow the seal to be maintained and drafts to be avoided. In addition, all manipulations of adjusting plastic windows are so simple that they do not require special qualifications, great force, or calling a specialist. Therefore, both men and women can adjust the window according to the “winter-summer” principle with their own hands.
Since PVC windows appeared in most houses, the life of their inhabitants has become more comfortable, and winters are much easier to endure. Plastic windows They are very durable, reliable and last a long time, but they sometimes require maintenance and repair. To ensure that windows do not let you down in the cold season, conserve heat and protect the house from drafts, you should carry out a series of preparatory activities. Only they can ensure the correct functioning of your window in winter. Photo and video illustrations are presented below.
Cleansing of accumulated dirt, routine care before the season change
- The first thing you need to do when preparing your windows for winter is to wash them well. Double-glazed windows, profiles, window sills, slopes, if they are finished with plastic - nothing should be left unattended. To remove dirt, use non-caustic detergents, soft sponges, and rags. It is necessary to wash not only the inside, but also the outside. After opening the window, you should also clean drainage channels, some kind of sharp object, for example a toothpick. If the window is well cleaned, then in the autumn - winter period the water will not linger in the drains, but will flow freely. The window sashes will be able to move freely without encountering any obstacles along the way.
- You also can’t ignore moving elements. window fittings. Most of the pollution accumulates in those places where the pressure rollers are located. Because of this, they cannot function smoothly. It is more convenient to remove dust and old grease here using a stiff brush.
- Once the window has been completely cleaned, including hard to reach places, begin to lubricate all its mechanisms. For these purposes, imported silicone grease is preferable. It is not only thicker than domestic, but also lasts much longer. If it is too expensive, then from Russian analogues solid oil is quite suitable. Some people think that edible vegetable oils are suitable for these purposes, but this opinion is deeply mistaken. When applied, these oils dry out very quickly and turn into a kind of sandpaper that can damage mechanisms in just a year. When lubricating the rollers, you must constantly turn the handle so that the lubricant has the opportunity to spread evenly over the entire surface of the moving contacting parts.
- The next step is to check the condition of the seals. Caring for them should be approached with the greatest responsibility, because... It is the seals that most determine the “weather in the house.” If extraneous noises begin to penetrate into the room, they begin to sweat and become covered with ice, then this is a sure sign of its damage.
To extend the service life of the seal, it must be cleaned and lubricated periodically. Lubricate it with the same silicone grease or technical petroleum jelly along the entire length to prevent freezing and drying out. If, while inspecting the window before the onset of cold weather, you find that the seal has worn out, then it will have to be replaced. It is quite possible to do this yourself. To do this on construction market purchase a seal, taking into account the shape of the seat, because it varies sometimes. Helping yourself flat screwdriver, carefully remove the worn material and place new material in its place. To make your work easier seat treat with lubricant. Upon completion of the work on top, generously treat the entire sealant.
How to adjust windows for winter
As cold weather approaches, it becomes necessary to adjust the windows for the winter. It consists in pressing the frame more tightly to the window to eliminate drafts. This is done using a hex key.
Adjustment of the horizontal sides is done along the panels at the top and bottom. To make this possible, the window hinges have slots for a hex key.
To adjust the top panel, the window must be kept open. To lift the edge opposite the hinge, the hex key should be rotated right side. To lower - to the left.
If your window is located low and you have free access to it from the street side, then adjustments are made without opening the sash. In this way it is possible to move the frame by 2 mm, or eliminate the bevel by the same distance.
The loop located at the bottom makes it possible to adjust the vertical sides. To gain access to the hex hole, you need to remove the safety cap. To raise the window, you need to turn the key to the right; to lower it, you need to turn it to the left. The shift is also 2 mm.
When varying the pressing force horizontally or vertically, we must not forget that the eccentrics responsible for this are located along the entire frame edge at equal intervals. When you turn the handle, they each go behind their own clamping area.
To increase the pressing force of the frame, it is necessary for the eccentric to turn to the right, to decrease - to the left. Each eccentric has special marks that allow you to determine the clamping force. Thus, if the mark is turned in the direction of the seal, this means strong pressure, if in the direction of the street, therefore, the pressure is weakened.
Sometimes window eccentrics are designed in such a way that it is possible to turn them with ordinary pliers.
At the locations of the loops there are also devices that regulate the clamping force. It is recognized by the degree of protrusion of the tongue. The longer it is, the tighter the frame is pressed against the window. Its length is changed with a hex wrench.
To extend the tongue, the key must be turned to the left if the hinges are on the left. Therefore, when the hinges are on the right, the key should be turned to the right. It is best to press the frame tighter in winter and looser in summer. But when doing these manipulations before the arrival of winter, it is important not to overdo it, because... If you press the frame too hard, it will cause premature wear of the seal.
When preparing windows for winter, it is also worth adjusting the hinges and pressing them tighter. Remove the special cap from the bottom hinge and turn the perpendicular bolt.
Adjusting the pressing force of the top hinge is only possible if there is a flap. Then it is installed for ventilation, making the hexagon accessible. When performing this operation, the window must be held, because it is fixed with a single hinge.
How to insulate windows in winter
If, after some time has passed after installing PVC windows, they begin to let in drafts and retain heat poorly, then you need to insulate the windows for the winter. But before that, it’s worth thinking about why the depressurization occurred. The most common causes and ways to eliminate them:
- The rubber seal on the window is worn out. Then it should be replaced with a new one.
- The junction of the frame and the slope was depressurized. To eliminate this drawback, you need to remove the slopes, insulate them, and install them back.
- After installing the windows, shrinkage of the walls occurred. In this case, it is enough just to adjust the fittings.
It is possible to insulate plastic windows in winter using film. This method Although it is quite expensive, it is very effective. Most often, the film is applied from the street side, but sometimes this is also done from the room side. This option is the highest quality. The film is stretched over the entire area of the frame and secured along its edges.
While doing this, you need to simultaneously control the strength and uniformity of tension. If the film is stretched more loosely in one of the areas, then a breakthrough may form in a strong wind. If this has already happened, then seal the torn area with tape so as not to change everything.
When choosing a film for window insulation, you should give preference to frost-resistant ones. The most suitable material for these purposes is recognized by its yellowish tone. It is best to refrain from going to the market and purchase it at a large hardware store. In order not to disturb the aesthetics appearance room, it is better to choose film designed for greenhouses. It is, of course, somewhat more expensive than a regular one, but it can last a very long time due to its resistance to low temperatures.
Attach the film to the edges of the frame regular tape. Sometimes they use buttons or a construction stapler, but in this case the frame will be damaged.
In addition to film, the use of PVC insulation is quite acceptable. This material is reliable and environmentally friendly, guarantees good thermal insulation. Such insulation materials are not afraid low temperatures and are not deformed. Their manufacturers guarantee that PVC windows will be reliably protected in winter.
When purchasing 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 whether your window structure is equipped with 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 much 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:
It is not enough to install a PVC window block in the opening. It still needs to be adjusted correctly so that the doors close tightly and without problems. Also, periodic adjustments of the window must then be made independently or with the help of craftsmen in the spring and autumn in order to switch it to summer or winter operating mode. Moreover, this setting should be treated with utmost care. This is necessary not only to get rid of drafts, but also to increase the service life of the translucent structure.
Winter and summer mode adjustments
In winter, the plastic window should be closed as tightly as possible in order to reduce air exchange between the street and the room to a minimum. Nobody needs street cold in the house in winter. In summer, on the contrary, even when closed, it should provide some air circulation (micro-ventilation) so that the room does not become too stuffy due to the heat.
Seasonal adjustment of a home window by switching it to “summer” or “winter” mode is carried out using locking pins on the side of the opening sash. They can be fixed rectangular or roller (round with a notch on one side or oval).
Types of trunnions on plastic windows
Depending on the type, adjustment of this fitting is done by turning it manually, using pliers, a screwdriver or a hex wrench. Moreover, in some cases, before turning, the mechanism must be pulled towards you, and only then turned.
How to adjust window pressure
The window trunnion can be set in one of three positions:
- “WINTER” – with maximum pressure.
- “SUMMER” – with weak pressure.
- Neutral (standard).
In the first case, on the round pin the risk is turned towards the street, and the oval one is set horizontally. In the second, the risk is installed inward, and the oval stands vertically. The third option - the dash looks up, the oval is fixed at an angle.
Instead of a movable pin on the sash, some manufacturers of window blocks install a non-adjustable locking element in the shape of a rectangle. In this case, adjusting the plastic window is only possible by adjusting the screw on the strike plate.
Window adjustment for winter and summer periods
The main point of seasonal adjustment of window sashes is the need to constantly transfer them from “summer” to “winter” and back. With strong “winter” pressure rubber compressor shrinks, which is why it gradually begins to deteriorate. Often, owners of PVC windows are faced with the fact that after a few years this rubber band has to be changed. This happens precisely because the sash, according to the instructions of the window product manufacturer, is not switched to summer mode with a weakened pressure, but is left as is after winter.
How to adjust the hinges of a plastic window?
In addition to seasonal adjustments to the degree of pressure, plastic windows are also adjusted by tightening/loosening the screws in the hinges that secure the sashes to the frame. There are two of them - one below, the second above. They differ in design, so they are pressed differently.
Options for plastic window mechanisms
Hinges on plastic windows have to be adjusted due to:
- initially poor, illiterate settings of the window unit during installation;
- natural wear of the seal;
- inaccurate and rough closing of the valves;
- window structure shrinkage;
- wear of parts of the tilt and turn mechanism.
As a result of all this, the sash sags and does not close tightly or does not close at all. However, to return it to its place, you just need to tighten the hinges. Moreover, you can perform such a pull-up on our own. There is no need to call the experts from the company that installed the window. All you need to do is have a screwdriver and a hex key on hand. This does not repair gasoline generators for the home or a submersible pump for dirty water, with window structures everything is much simpler.
Plastic window adjustment points
Upper
The top hinge is adjusted from the side using a hexagon when the sash is fully open. After turning the screw there clockwise, the window leaf moves away from the frame, and when tightened counter-clockwise, it is pressed so that there is less of a barrel on top.
For more precise adjustment, there is also another bolt on the upper tilt and turn mechanism. But to get to it, you will have to press the blocker (set it strictly vertically) and turn the handle to the top ventilation (also in a vertical position). As a result, the sash on top should pull away from the frame, hanging on the lower hinge and allowing full access to the upper one.
Adjusting the top hinge
It is important here not to over-tighten the adjustment bolts. There should be a small empty space between the sash and the frame, where, when closing the window, a tilt and turn device made of steel will be placed.
Lower
The bottom hinge also has two adjustment screws. One of them is located on the side at the very bottom. He is responsible for horizontal adjustment - he presses the sash against the frame or pulls it away from it.
The second one is located directly in the rotary mechanism. To get to it, you need to remove the plastic cap from the loop. This screw allows you to adjust the opening window leaf vertically (height). Turning it clockwise makes it go up, counter-clockwise means it goes down.
Bottom Hinge Adjustment
Manipulations when independently tightening the hinges on a plastic window should be done extremely carefully and without applying excessive force. Do not immediately tighten or unscrew the adjusting screw all the way. It’s better to turn it a quarter turn first and close the sash to check to see how smoothly it sits in the frame. And only then, if necessary, can the bolt be tightened further.
How to adjust the handle
The handle on the PVC window block is actually not adjustable in any way and does not affect the degree of pressing of the sash. It is not involved in adjusting the window, but is only a mechanism for attracting the opening leaf to the frame, as well as transferring the latter to the position for micro-ventilation and opening from above.
However, often the handle becomes loose or begins to jam. To tighten or replace it, you just need to get to a couple of bolts. They are located under a plastic trim located on the profile at the base of this window fitting. This plug needs to be slightly pulled back and turned, the fasteners are immediately accessible.
Arm adjustment
If the handle is difficult to turn or is stuck, then the problem usually lies not in it, but in the hinges and the upper folding mechanism. These window elements are directly related to each other. With the wave, a situation is possible when metal elements rusty. Then the lever inside the profile will not allow the handle to turn. To get rid of this problem, you need to lubricate the hinges.
How to fix window problems
Problems with window blocks are very diverse. In some cases, it will be enough to do the simplest adjustment of a plastic window with your own hands by tightening the adjustment screws, but in others you will have to change broken fittings. Here, in many ways, as with heating - most often achieved comfortable temperatures in the room you can simply adjust the room thermostats for gas boilers. But in a number of situations it will be necessary to rebuild the existing heating system with the replacement of some of its elements.
Modern fittings for plastic windows provide the ability to adjust the sash pressure. The operating mode is determined by the clamping force. There are three modes in total: weak (summer), strong (winter) and medium (standard). They must be used wisely, taking into account Current state designs and level of comfort in the room. If there is a need to switch the shutters to winter mode, you should determine the type of eccentrics and study the instructions below for adjusting them.
Changing the mode on PVC windows: unnecessary or necessary
By default, the wizard who installs the windows sets the mode at his discretion; he can be guided by the time of year or own experience. Therefore, during installation, it is advisable to find out what clamping force will be installed.
The mode directly affects the wear rate of the structure:
- At summer The sealing rubber does not experience pressure. The sash fits without a gap, but does not squeeze the seal. This mode is the most preferable, since the service life of the rubber is maximum. Plastic structures They expand and contract freely as the temperature outside the window changes, which puts less stress on the welds.
- Standard The operating mode already slightly compresses the seal. It perfectly protects against dust, noise and drafts. It can be used all year round, but the wear rate of the rubber will be higher.
- At winter mode, the sash fits as tightly as possible, the seal is compressed, this can be felt by the tight turn of the handle. With constant use of this mode, the rubber wears out over several seasons, it loses its shape and is no longer able to restore it. When switching to summer mode after prolonged use of winter mode, blowing may occur.
The ideal operating mode for PVC windows is summer. If there is no discomfort for residents, windows provide good insulation from cold air, dust and street noise, it can be used constantly.
Switching the sashes to strong pressure is necessary in the following cases:
- There is a blowing air, and cold air can be felt around the perimeter of the sash.
- The seal has worn out, lost elasticity or dried out.
- In case of heat loss, in order to save on space heating.
Not all types of fittings are equipped with a mechanism for switching modes; as a rule, the cheapest options do not have this capability. Kits from the middle and expensive segments are most often equipped with movable pins (eccentrics), by changing the position of which you can adjust the clamping force. These are fittings from the brands Roto, Maco, Siegenia Aubi.
Rules for using modes:
- The period of use of the sash in winter mode should be shorter than in summer. It is recommended to switch the mechanism to a tighter fit late autumn, return to its original position in early spring.
- For the first year or two after installation, it is advisable to use only summer mode. There is no need to convert to winter.
- You cannot use strong pressure in the warm season - this can lead to serious damage to the fittings and increased load on the welded seams of the sash, since the structure expands when heated.
A simple method will help you determine that the sash does not fit well to the frame and you need to switch the clamp to a tighter one: you need to hold the edge of a notebook sheet between the sash and the frame and turn the handle to the “closed” position, then try to remove the paper. If the sheet comes free easily, the seal is loose. If it is difficult to pull out or is torn, then the pressure is sufficient for the winter season and there is no need to tighten the trunnions.
What do trunnions look like and where are they located?
Trunnions or eccentrics are part of the locking mechanism of the fittings. They are located at the end of the sash on the handle side. They are easy to spot if you open the window. By changing the position of the eccentrics you can adjust the clamping force. Window sashes standard size equipped with 3 pins: bottom, center and top. Depending on the dimensions of the sash, there may be more.
Eccentrics vary in shape, which determines how they are adjusted:
● Some round eccentrics have an offset center; you can find several points on them or one mark that goes through the entire trunnion. In this case, the largest point or the longest part of the mark serves as a guide. If these marks are directed closer to the room, then the mode is winter, closer to the street - summer. You can also focus on the center of the eccentric; the closer it is to the street, the stronger the rebate.
Trunnion positions with an offset center and a long notch. 
Multi-point trunnion Which tool to use to switch plastic windows to winter mode or return them to summer mode also depends on the shape of the eccentrics. If they have holes, use the appropriate tool (hexagon, sprocket or screwdriver). Trunnion position without special holes(oval) is adjusted with pliers.
How to convert eccentrics to strong pressure with your own hands
Mode switching - simple operation. You can handle it yourself without involving a specialist. Before adjusting the eccentrics, it is necessary to prepare plastic windows for winter regime operation. This is the normal maintenance procedure for plastic profile products:
- Clean the surface of the frame from dust and debris.
- Wipe all metal parts of the fittings with a dry and soft cloth.
- Apply special lubricant or industrial petroleum jelly to the moving parts of the fitting mechanism.
- Open and close the sash several times to ensure that the lubricant is evenly distributed.
- Remove excess compound with a dry cloth.
It is better to clean and lubricate the fittings before making adjustments, as debris and sand can accumulate on them during movements. protective covering the metal will be damaged by abrasive particles, which will lead to corrosion.
Instructions for adjusting windows for the winter:
- Find all the eccentrics on the open sash. Everything needs to be translated at once. Some models of fittings are equipped with recessed trunnions; before starting work, they need to be pulled towards you.
- Find the mark on the trunnion indicating the clamping force. The closer the mark is to the street side, the stronger the fit. For trunnions with an offset center, another rule applies - the closer the center is to the street, the tighter the vestibule.
- Using a window wrench, an asterisk or pliers, turn the eccentric: oval to a horizontal position; round - with a point (point) towards the street; round with an offset center - the wide side into the room.
- The eccentrics do not have an extreme point; they scroll around their axis. Maximum rotation when switching from summer mode for winter - 180°. From standard to winter or summer - 90°.
- You can check the result using a piece of paper.
In the spring it is necessary to return the sashes to their original position.
If the sash does not fit well enough to the frame on the hinge side or sagging is detected, you will need to adjust the hinges and scissors using a hex key. To do this you need to remove decorative plugs, find the holes on the hinges for the hex key to enter and align the position of the sash vertically and horizontally. If the fittings provide adjustment for pressure on the hinge side, you can make the fit tighter around the entire perimeter. The clamp is adjusted on the bottom loop or scissors.
Diagram for adjusting the sash horizontally, vertically and for clamping. Possibility of adjusting the clamping force - useful property accessories. This allows you to reduce heat loss in winter and extend the service life of sealing rubber and plastic by loosening the pressure in the warm season. But in order for the windows to serve as long as possible, you should not abuse this function.
