Convert plastic windows to winter. Adjusting windows for the winter with your own hands. When is it necessary to adjust the window for the winter period?

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 need to be used wisely, taking into account the current state of the structure and the level of comfort in the room. If there is a need to move the sashes 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 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, the windows provide good insulation from cold air, dust and street noise, then 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 in late autumn, and return it 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.

To determine that the sash does not fit well to the frame and you need to switch the clamp to a tighter one, a simple method will help: you need to clamp the edge 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). The position of trunnions without special holes (oval) is adjusted with pliers.

How to convert eccentrics to strong pressure with your own hands

Switching mode is a simple operation. You can handle it yourself without involving a specialist. Before adjusting the eccentrics, it is necessary to prepare plastic windows for winter operation. This is the normal maintenance procedure for plastic profile products:

  • Clean the surface of the frame from dust and debris.
  • Wipe dry and soft cloth all metal parts of fittings.
  • 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 on metal will be damaged abrasive particles, which will lead to corrosion.

Instructions for adjusting windows winter period:

  1. 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, you need to pull them towards you.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. The eccentrics do not have an extreme point; they scroll around their axis. The maximum rotation when switching from summer to winter mode is 180°. From standard to winter or summer - 90°.
  5. 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 the 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 service life. sealing rubber and plastic due to weakening of the pressure in the warm season. But in order for the windows to serve as long as possible, you should not abuse this function.

Plastic windows protect from street noise and provide comfortable temperature air of an apartment, private house. However, after installation they require . Adjustment of the locking mechanisms is necessary every off-season - only then will the double-glazed windows perform their intended task. Today’s article will tell you how to switch windows to winter mode, why this is needed, and when such actions are performed. Along the way, it is worth understanding the features of locking mechanisms, the design, and some of the nuances of operation. Photo and video instructions will help us, explaining in detail the algorithm of the actions performed.

Let us immediately make a reservation that if you lack knowledge and experience, our editors recommend turning to professionals in your field. Specialists from specialized companies will advise on all possible issues and offer the most profitable options for solving problems. Well, for those who still want to tackle this issue on their own, here is a little information.

Modern plastic windows adjustable according to the pressing force of the sashes in three modes:

  • summer– the window sash is pressed weakly. This ensures air circulation in the room, realizing. The wear of the rubber seals is minimal;
  • winter mode on plastic windows provides a tight clamp. There is no air circulation, which ensures heat retention in the home. The load on the sealing rubber bands is maximum;
  • standard– average position of the eccentrics (trunnions). More often than not, installers leave the locking mechanisms in this position. The only difference is that professionals who value their reputation show the owner how to switch double-glazed windows to winter or summer mode, while careless people (of which, unfortunately, are the majority) do not bother with explanations. The standard mode is intended for off-season use.

Why switch the modes of plastic windows

It is enough not to switch the “winter-summer” mode on plastic windows for 2-3 years, so that after that, even with the correct adjustments, it starts to blow from under the window sill or balcony door. Let's look at the problems that arise with incorrect settings.

The first is a violation of the microclimate of the room. Excessive condensation contributes to the formation of condensation on frames, double-glazed windows and walls, which leads to mold. “Summer” settings in winter lead to heat loss, the need arises. The result is higher gas bills or...

Important! Using the winter position of plastic windows in the warm season will lead to rapid wear of the seals. The result is the futility of any subsequent adjustments. The solution is to replace the rubber seals, which are not cheap.

Switching modes of plastic windows: advantages and disadvantages

Disadvantages in window adjustment can only occur if done incorrectly home handyman. If everything is done correctly, switching modes will only bring benefits. Let's figure out in what cases it is justified.


Timely switching will extend the life of the windows, even if these actions have not been performed for some time. Drafts in winter or dust ingress in summer for some reason are treated by switching the fittings to winter mode. Maybe not for long, but it will be delayed for a year or two. Sagging loops are eliminated in the same way. Replacing fittings is a last resort measure.

Good to know! Incorrectly set modes can cause a window or door to jam separately in the ventilation position or together with opening.

Determining the possibility of changing the seasonal regimes of plastic windows

Not all models of plastic windows have the ability to change modes. To understand whether it is present on your double-glazed windows, you need to look at the shut-off valves. The eccentric located in the middle can be oval or have a hole in the center for an asterisk or hexagon. This indicates the presence of winter mode on plastic windows. The photos below will help the reader understand this issue.

The algorithm for adjusting windows with different trunnions is identical, but their position may differ. Let's try to understand in detail the types of eccentrics.

Forms of eccentrics and nuances of mode transfer

The oval trunnion after installation is often located diagonally - this is the standard position, average between winter and summer. The horizontal position indicates winter mode, and the vertical position indicates summer mode.

If the shut-off valve eccentric is round (hexagonal), then its positions are as follows. Pushed towards the street - winter, located in the center - standard, recessed towards the apartment - summer.

The third option is a round hexagon pin that does not move when turning. In this case, there is a mark on it, which indicates correct position. To make it easier to understand, we offer pictures for viewing on how to switch windows to winter mode.





How to switch windows to winter mode: preparing double-glazed windows

Before, you should make preparatory work. The first thing to do is to remove the lubricant from the locking mechanism components with a rag, so that when adjusting, dirt and dust do not get inside with it. After all the work done, the mechanism is lubricated again.


Very important! The rubber frame seal should be treated before cold weather. You can do this with a lubricant (silicone or glycerin based), but it is better to use silicone spray, which is sold in all hardware and automotive stores.

How and when are plastic windows switched to winter mode?

Experts recommend switching locking mechanisms from summer to winter only in extreme cases, when drafts become sensitive. However, this is only suitable for warm climate zones of Russia. It is optimal to switch at the beginning of the heating season.

A fogged glass unit or a slight appearance of ice on it from the inside may also indicate the need for adjustment.


Helpful information! Before switching the windows to winter mode, you should carefully inspect the rubber seal. Perhaps the sash fittings are adjusted correctly, but the seal is cracked or torn. In this case, you must definitely replace it. You can buy cheap seals for one winter, but they don’t last more than a season.

Other adjustment options for plastic window frames

Having figured out how to switch the windows to winter mode using a hexagon, screwdriver or pliers, you can move on to the rest. After all, over time, the frame may move, and one side will fit tighter than the other, which is unacceptable. This creates a load on the window fittings and contributes to the appearance of drafts.


The sash is adjusted vertically and horizontally from the bottom hinge. We remove the protective plastic cover and find a screw with a hexagon hole located on top. When you turn the screw clockwise, the frame will begin to rise. Turning counterclockwise, lower the glass unit. In order to move the sash away from the frame or, conversely, to install it closer, we use a screw located on the side at the bottom of the hinge.

Important! If all adjustments are made correctly, and draft problems do not disappear, this indicates wear of the seals, a manufacturing defect in the frame, or incorrect installation valves We check the rubber seals, and if they are normal, we file a complaint with the installer. This is why it is important to make adjustments in the first year of operation - there is still the possibility warranty repair, and sometimes replacements.

Article

Plastic windows save you from street noise and provide a comfortable air temperature in your apartment or private home. However, once installed, they require periodic maintenance. Adjustment of the locking mechanisms is necessary every off-season - only then will the double-glazed windows perform their intended task. Today’s article will tell you how to switch windows to winter mode, why this is needed, and when such actions are performed. Along the way, it is worth understanding the features of locking mechanisms, the design, and some of the nuances of operation. Photo and video instructions will help us, explaining in detail the algorithm of the actions performed.


Interseasonal adjustment of window sash locking mechanisms is necessary for its proper operation.

What does “summer” and “winter” mode of plastic windows mean?

Let us immediately make a reservation that if you lack knowledge and experience, our editors recommend turning to professionals in your field. Well, for those who still want to tackle this issue on their own, here is a little information.

Modern plastic windows are adjustable according to the pressing force of the sashes in three modes:

  • summer– the window sash is pressed weakly. This ensures air circulation in the room, implementing the ventilation mode. The wear of the rubber seals is minimal;
  • winter mode on plastic windows provides a tight clamp. There is no air circulation, which ensures heat retention in the home. The load on the sealing rubber bands is maximum;
  • standard– average position of the eccentrics (trunnions). More often than not, installers leave the locking mechanisms in this position. The only difference is that professionals who value their reputation show the owner how to switch double-glazed windows to winter or summer mode, while careless people (of which, unfortunately, are the majority) do not bother with explanations. The standard mode is intended for off-season use.

For this purpose, you can call a specialist, but it is better to do all the work yourself. If you want to do it well, do it yourself

Why switch the modes of plastic windows

It is enough not to switch the “winter-summer” mode on plastic windows for 2-3 years, so that later, even with the correct adjustments, it begins to blow from under the window sill or balcony door. Let's look at the problems that arise with incorrect settings.

The first is a violation of the microclimate of the room. Excessive humidity promotes condensation on frames, double-glazed windows and walls, which leads to mold. “Summer” settings in winter lead to heat loss, and the need for additional heating arises. The result is higher gas or electricity bills.


It is better not to touch this unit when adjusting if you have no experience in such work

Important! Using the winter position of plastic windows in the warm season will lead to rapid wear of the seals. The result is the futility of any subsequent adjustments. The solution is to replace the rubber seals, which are not cheap.

Switching modes of plastic windows: advantages and disadvantages

Disadvantages in window adjustment can only occur if the home technician does the wrong thing. If everything is done correctly, switching modes will only bring benefits. Let's figure out in what cases it is justified.


Trunnions (eccentrics) can be varied, but their settings are identical

Timely switching will extend the life of the windows, even if these actions have not been performed for some time. Drafts in winter or dust ingress in summer due to wear of the seals can be treated by switching the fittings to winter mode. Maybe not for long, but the repairs will be delayed for a year or two. Sagging loops are eliminated in the same way. Replacing fittings is a last resort measure.

Good to know! Incorrectly set modes can cause a window or door to jam separately in the ventilation position or together with opening.

Determining the possibility of changing the seasonal regimes of plastic windows

Not all models of plastic windows have the ability to change modes. To understand whether it is present on your double-glazed windows, you need to look at the shut-off valves. The eccentric located in the middle can be oval or have a hole in the center for an asterisk or hexagon. This indicates the presence of winter mode on plastic windows. The photos below will help the reader understand this issue.




The algorithm for adjusting windows with different trunnions is identical, but their position may differ. Let's try to understand in detail the types of eccentrics.

Shapes of eccentrics and nuances of mode transfer

The oval trunnion after installation is often located diagonally - this is the standard position, average between winter and summer. The horizontal position indicates winter mode, and the vertical position indicates summer mode.

If the shut-off valve eccentric is round (hexagonal), then its positions are as follows. Pushed towards the street - winter, located in the center - standard, recessed towards the apartment - summer.

The third option is a round hexagon pin that does not move when turning. In this case, there is a mark on it, which indicates the correct position. To make it easier to understand, we offer pictures for viewing on how to switch windows to winter mode.


Some eccentrics can be turned by hand without the aid of a tool.
Hex eccentric - pay attention to the mark or marker
The most common eccentrics - the mode is determined as follows - the thicker side from the center inward is winter, vice versa - summer
This is the standard position. Installed from the factory and rarely changed by installers

How to switch windows to winter mode: preparing double-glazed windows

Before putting plastic windows on winter mode, preparatory work should be done. The first thing to do is to remove the lubricant from the locking mechanism components with a rag, so that when adjusting, dirt and dust do not get inside with it. After all the work done, the mechanism is lubricated again.


Here the sealant is treated with silicone gel, but it is better to use a spray

Very important! The rubber frame seal should be treated before cold weather. You can do this with a lubricant (silicone or glycerin based), but it is better to use silicone spray, which is sold in all hardware and automotive stores.

How and when are plastic windows switched to winter mode?

Experts recommend switching locking mechanisms from summer to winter only in extreme cases, when drafts become sensitive. However, this is only suitable for warm climate zones of Russia. It is optimal to switch at the beginning of the heating season.

A fogged glass unit or a slight appearance of ice on it from the inside may also indicate the need for adjustment.


Consequences of incorrect adjustment of double-glazed windows

Helpful information! Before switching the windows to winter mode, you should carefully inspect the rubber seal. Perhaps the sash fittings are adjusted correctly, but the seal is cracked or torn. In this case, you must definitely replace it. You can buy cheap seals for one winter, but they don’t last more than a season.

Other adjustment options for plastic window frames

Having figured out how to switch the windows to winter mode using a hexagon, screwdriver or pliers, you can move on to the rest of the adjustment. After all, over time, the frame may move, and one side will fit tighter than the other, which is unacceptable. This creates a load on the window fittings and contributes to the appearance of drafts.


Various sash adjustments that you can do yourself

The sash is adjusted vertically and horizontally from the bottom hinge. We remove the protective plastic cover and find a screw with a hexagon hole located on top. When you turn the screw clockwise, the frame will begin to rise. Turning counterclockwise, lower the glass unit. In order to move the sash away from the frame or, conversely, to install it closer, we use a screw located on the side at the bottom of the hinge.

Important! If all adjustments are made correctly, and draft problems have not disappeared, this indicates wear of the seals, a factory defect in the frame, or improper installation of the sashes. We check the rubber seals, and if they are normal, we file a complaint with the installer. That is why it is important to perform adjustments in the first year of operation - the possibility of warranty repairs and sometimes replacement remains.

Transferring plastic windows to winter mode: video and photo instructions

Let's start this section with photo instructions on how to switch windows to winter mode:

Illustration Action to be performed

Having opened the sash, we find eccentrics on the end part. On standard window there are three of them. The photo shows the summer position of the axle (the marker is located closer to the street side). We need to move it in the opposite direction, towards the apartment.

To work you need a hexagon of suitable size. The most commonly used tool is 4 or 6 mm. But it’s better if you have a set of hexagons on hand different sizes(a thin tool is needed to adjust the sash vertically and horizontally).

Having picked up the right key, we begin to turn the axle. The photo shows the moment of setting the “standard” position.

Having turned the eccentric further, we stop in the “winter” position. We perform the same actions with other eccentrics. Afterwards, you can check the tight fit of the sash to the frame.

But photo instructions are one thing, but a video will be easier to understand. This means it’s worth watching a short but very informative video on how to switch windows to winter mode:

We hope that after watching the video, the question of how to switch Euro-windows to winter mode has ceased to be relevant.

Let's sum it up

Regardless of the window design plastic frame, the setup is easy. The main thing is to follow some of the rules that were discussed today. If double-glazed windows have been installed recently and are under warranty, it is best to call the technicians from the company that installed them. This service is provided free of charge. However, you should not hope that the settings will be 100% perfect. Be prepared to do some fine-tuning yourself. But they will make the basic adjustments, which will save the home handyman from unnecessary work.

Subsequently, by adjusting even one sash, you can perform such work completely independently.


If the rubber seals are cracked or torn, they should be replaced

We hope that the reader found the information in the article for which he came to our resource. If you are interested in other topics on construction or renovation, we suggest you look through other articles on our resource. We promise that the reader will find a lot of interesting and useful information. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them in the comments below.

And finally, another short video on today's topic:

Nowadays it is easy to adjust the plastic windows produced. Summer and winter mode, which is adjusted in autumn and spring before sudden temperature changes, makes it possible to change the clamping force, which allows you to vary the degree of ventilation.

The procedure itself represents certain manipulations that may be required immediately after installing a new double-glazed window. This is a kind of preventive maintenance that allows you to assess readiness window designs for one season or another.

What do we have to do?

After you have bought plastic windows (summer and winter mode), adjusting and setting them up is quite simple. To do this, you should follow a few simple steps, namely:

  • Open the door. At the end of most structures there is a cylindrical convex head, which is called an eccentric or axle. There may be several similar elements.
  • It has a pair of slots, one of which is longer and the other shorter.
  • There is a hole for a key in the middle.
  • If the short slot is directed towards the rubber gasket of the window, then the trunnion is set to the summer position; if it is in the opposite position, it is to the winter mode.

You can turn the eccentric using a suitable hex key or flat-head screwdriver. It is often practiced to change the position of the eccentric simply with your fingers, by pulling the adjustment mechanism and turning it.

The difference between the maximum and minimum pressure on the sash is 0.2 cm, which is quite enough to increase the flow of fresh air.

What does window adjustment do?

It is worth considering that plastic windows, which have summer and winter modes, are adjusted according to the fit of the sash. In the cold season, this process allows you to strengthen this indicator, and in the summer the pressure is made weaker to increase ventilation.

Quite often, the eccentric slot is placed parallel to the edge of the window sash. It happens in this position if the design comes directly from the manufacturer (a universal arrangement that differs from the “winter” or “summer” positions by only 1 millimeter).

In winter, the orientation of the trunnion is aimed at creating additional pressure on the rubber seal. Experts advise on new windows this element do not install, making do with a neutral position or summer option. Sealing rubber- This important element in the design of plastic windows, for this purpose it is treated with silicone, which allows to extend its service life.

Plastic windows (summer and winter mode): correct adjustment

The main advantages of plastic window structures include a high level of tightness, which does not create drafts and allows you to maintain a normal microclimate in an apartment or house. After long-term operation, the tightness characteristics may change due to many reasons. A design that is already in use is prone to breakdowns, which reduce this function. Such a violation often leads to the creation of an unstable indoor microclimate.

What are the benefits of window adjustments?

After the plastic windows (summer and winter mode), which must be adjusted in a timely manner, are adjusted accordingly, the following effect is achieved:

  1. A stable climatic environment is formed inside the room with constant temperature control.
  2. Avoid contact with cold air masses in winter by eliminating the presence of through gaps.
  3. A constant level of humidity is maintained.
  4. Financial resources that were previously spent on paying for heat supply and electricity services are saved.

If everything is done correctly, plastic windows (summer and winter mode), the adjustment and correct settings of which do not require special effort, will last a long time, reliably and functionally in accordance with the season.

Peculiarities

Different mechanisms of plastic windows may have differences in design. This is due to the different number of eccentrics and their configuration. Some products have cylinders located around the perimeter of the sash, other samples are equipped with a pin with upper or lower hinges.

In order to correctly adjust plastic windows (summer and winter modes), adjustment changes must be made during the appropriate period. You can check the position of the trunnion yourself. To do this you need to perform the following manipulations:

  • The eccentrics located on top can be checked by opening the sash.
  • Next, turn the handle and tilt the element to the ventilation position.
  • Such operations are characterized as opening a window in a rotating direction at an angle.

As a result, the required mechanism will be visible, located in the area of ​​the fixing scissor-shaped parts of the window.

Conclusion

Plastic windows (summer and winter mode), the adjustment of which consists of moving the eccentric to the required position, are adjusted by simply turning the hex key counterclockwise.

After the completed action, the trunnion will move to the required position and establish itself at the desired level. As soon as all the parts are in place, preparing the window for the winter period can be considered complete.

In addition, you should check the condition of the fittings. All loose and faulty fasteners must be replaced, repaired or secured.

It often happens that even when purchasing durable and expensive items, buyers do not know all their capabilities. One of the brightest examples– these are plastic windows and climate control settings. Today, every third house has plastic double-glazed windows installed, but only a few owners know about this feature of the fittings. And, unfortunately, not everything is so rosy with this function. First, it’s worth determining what exactly it does.

How to switch plastic windows to winter mode - types of window modes

  • This option directly affects the degree of pressing of the frame to the window sash. In winter mode, the pressing density is the highest and is necessary to maintain heat in the house. IN summer time, accordingly, on the contrary, and a semblance of the effect of light ventilation is created. The middle mode is the most optimal in a stable climate.
  • Actually, the need to change modes may manifest itself in different ways: strong drafts from window frames in winter or blowing dust in summer. These are some of the problems that vinyl windows are designed to protect against. Jamming or difficulty switching to ventilation mode from open/closed. When the hinges are worn casement may begin to sag, so switching to winter mode will correct the situation.
  • Unfortunately, not all fittings have this function. And if this has been considered the norm for the last 5 years, then in older versions of windows, even not in the budget segment, it was most likely absent. In such well-known companies as Aubi, Gu, Maco, good fittings are part of the brand’s quality.
  • But even if the buyer was not informed about the presence of this mode upon purchase, it is not difficult to personally determine whether this function belongs to the windows. You just need to open the window and look at the side of the sash. There you will find an eccentric trunnion. This is the element that performs the pressing. It is worth looking for holes on its surface for tools. This is a slot for a flat-head screwdriver, either a hexagon or an asterisk. The trunnion can also have an elongated or oval shape. The presence of an eccentric of such a modification will confirm the possibility of changing seasonal modes.

How to switch plastic windows to winter mode - determining the mode

  • The most in a simple way To determine the current mode, look at the indicator on the trunnion in the form of a dash or arrows or a dot. If the direction of this marker is indicated towards the apartment, then the windows are in summer mode. If towards the street - winter, an intermediate location is an average option.
  • For oval or elongated eccentrics the rule is slightly different. Vertical placement, weak pressing, that is summer option. Horizontal – winter mode and strong pressure. Due to the absence of markers on the trunnions, you can conduct the experiment using a sheet of paper. Press it between the frame and the closing sash and, when closed window, try to pull it out. If it comes out quite easily, then the summer variation is worth it. If it breaks when pulled out, it’s winter. This test should only be carried out with serviceable and balanced frames.

How to switch plastic windows to winter mode

The owner does not need any additional materials. But if there are any doubts about the serviceability of the fittings, you should first contact the installer and ask for a technician. The transition itself will take no more than 30 minutes. It is performed in the following sequence:

  • find all the eccentrics on the frame. Their number will vary depending on the size of the window;
  • clean them from dust, wipe them with a cloth or brush them. It is also advisable to lubricate before and after switching modes;
  • Having determined the marks or position, change them to the necessary ones using the right tools. But don’t forget that they all should always be in one version;
  • conduct a test with a piece of paper to finally confirm the result of the action.

In some cases, the trunnions are submerged; they need to be lifted, changed mode, and sunk again. It is not recommended to transfer only installed windows to different seasons for the first couple of years. Now it's worth talking about the disadvantages. The constant presence of windows in winter mode directly affects the life and quality of the seal due to the influence of temperature, as well as atmospheric humidity. According to many manufacturers, constantly keeping the fittings in summer mode prolongs its operation as much as possible. But nothing prevents the owner from making his life more convenient in the frosty months by switching the windows to winter mode. The main thing is not to forget to change everything back in the spring.

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