Adjusting plastic windows according to the “winter-summer” principle is a fairly simple procedure. You can do it yourself without the help of specialists. Which 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 of 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 in the warm season and reduce it in the cold season.

Adjusting plastic windows “winter-summer” is quite simple.

The whole process involves the use of a cylinder with an offset center that presses the sash against the window frame - an 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 the additional possibility of 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, window adjustment for the summer season should be done as follows:

• 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.

Reading time: 7 minutes.

Modern double-glazed windows provide a comfortable indoor microclimate. However, they also require periodic adjustments. Thus, it is possible to adjust the degree of pressing of the canvas to the frame depending on the season, which few people know about. It is not difficult to do this with your own hands using a hex key, a screwdriver, or manually, depending on the type of locking devices.

Why regulate?

Different modes are needed for one simple reason - the change of seasons. Accordingly, there is a periodic drop or rise in temperature. The ability to close windows more tightly (or, conversely, less tightly) increases the access of fresh air into the room in the summer and reduces the outflow of heat outside in the winter.

If the window is constantly used in “winter” mode, this will lead to rapid wear of the seal due to the constantly high clamping pressure on it. If you leave the summer mode for the cold period, then there will be drafts and significant heat loss in the room. As a rule, during installation, windows are set in a neutral mode (spring/autumn), and when the season changes (that is, 2 times a year), it is recommended to make the appropriate adjustments.

Leak test

You need to prepare plastic windows for winter before the first frost. It is necessary to carry out a preventive inspection and check the tightness in the following ways:

Types of adjustment mechanisms

The degree of pressing of the sash to the frame is adjusted using locking mechanisms (trunnions) located on the side and upper ends of the sash. The appearance, quantity and location of these devices may vary depending on the manufacturer and price category of the double-glazed window.

The most common ones include:

• Round. Such trunnions have some kind of mark (dash, mark, dot, asterisk). If it is directed towards the room, then the window is set to “winter” mode, to the street – “summer”, upward – “neutral”.
• Oval. The vertical position is “summer”, the horizontal position is “winter”, the diagonal position is the standard “neutral”.
• Turnkey eccentrics. The shift into the room is “winter” mode, outward is “summer”, strictly in the middle is “neutral”.

Now almost every apartment or private house has them. This greatly simplifies people’s lives, because metal-plastic structures are very durable, they are more convenient to use, they are more reliable, and their service life is much longer than that of wooden ones. But these advantages do not negate the need for special care, which will extend the operating time. Structures, insulation, repair, etc. Preparing plastic windows for winter is an important aspect of operation.

When it gets cold outside, it is important to think about how to adjust your plastic windows for the winter. Proper preparation is not difficult at all, but very important. If you do not perform a few simple manipulations, the Euro-windows will not perform the functions declared by the manufacturer.

How to prepare double-glazed windows for winter

To extend the life of the mechanism, it needs proper care, preventing pollution. It's important to know how . Before each change of season, the structure must be thoroughly washed with a regular sponge and a gentle detergent.

The glass itself is cleaned, as well as slopes, profiles, sashes, window sills - that is, all structural elements on both sides. The drainage channels must be cleaned, otherwise water will accumulate in them.

Leak test

To check the tightness between the frame and the sash a sheet of paper is inserted. You need to pull it, checking the tension. When the sheet comes out easily, adjustment of the sash clamping mechanism is required.

Important! It should be taken into account that the tension of the sheet depends on the material of the seal.

Rubber will hold it tighter than silicone, since they have different coefficients of friction.

To carry out an additional check, you can coat the perimeter of the glass unit soapy water.

Bubbles will appear on the problem area due to the passing air flow.

If the seal allows noise and cold to pass through, it is most likely damaged and needs to be replaced or treated with silicone grease.

Cleaning from dirt and lubrication

Insulating plastic windows for the winter with your own hands involves inspecting the condition of the fittings. It should be thoroughly cleaned of dirt, dust mixed with old lubricant.

When all the mechanisms are clean, you need to reapply the lubricant composition - purchase a special one for metal-plastic structures or use grease.

Prohibited use for fittings, edible oils - they dry quickly and become sticky, rendering the mechanism unusable.

Adjusting plastic windows for winter

Before the onset of the cold season, plastic structures are inspected and winter conditions are adjusted.

After installation of the double-glazed window, they are set standard criteria for locking doors, positions are adjusted according to the seasons to enhance functionality. Installers must explain to owners how to prepare plastic windows for winter and summer.

But it is seasonal adjustment that is most often forgotten; the sash remains in neutral mode. Owners simply do not know how to tighten their plastic windows. Over time, this provokes the following consequences:

• drafts around the perimeter of the sash;
• summer mode in winter does not provide pressure to the locking mechanism, causing heat loss in room;
• Constantly setting the winter mode provokes rapid wear doors;
• lack of seasonal adjustment makes the air dry, condensation and even mold can form.

Adjustment methods

Window models may vary in fittings, thickness and strength of double-glazed windows. But there are some general principles on how to tighten plastic windows.

Setting up the entire rule is not that difficult. Before changing the mode, you need to check the double-glazed window to ensure that it has a special adjustment device.

As a rule, these are eccentric trunnions; they are installed in accordance with the location sash pressing force.

Trunnions differ in appearance between different companies of window designs. But they all definitely have an adjustment function. The transfer is carried out using a 4 mm hexagon or asterisk.

There is a mark on the edge of the eccentric - it indicates set mode. By default, it is set up - neutral position. It should be changed according to the time of year.

Vertical and horizontal adjustment

1. To remove a slight bevel and shift of the frame, you need horizontal adjustment. It is done using the top and bottom loops. It has holes for a hexagon. Bottom – will allow you to configure the window from the outside and inside (that is, closed and open). As the key is turned to the right, the sash rises. If you rotate to the left, the lower part on the opposite side of the sash lowers. The same actions are carried out with the hinge at the top, but carry out manipulations only with the sash open. The shift should be no more than 2 mm.
2. Plastic structures can be adjusted and vertically– using the lower hinged loop. First, remove the plug so that the hexagon has free access to the loop. The sash rises if rotated to the right, lowers if rotated to the left. The range is no more than 2 mm.

Setting the bottom corner position

If the PVC does not close tightly from below, then move the sash using the bottom hinge

There is also a second screw on the hinge for adjustment - for this, the sash is placed for ventilation, the decorative trim is removed from it, under which there will be a recess for a 4 mm hexagon. When turned clockwise, the sash rises, and when turned counterclockwise, it lowers.

Adjusting the degree of pressing of the valves

How to check the degree of compression has already been described above. Now you need to adjust it correctly. This is done using eccentrics located around the perimeter of the fittings.

This is how PVC is adjusted in winter. You can do the setup yourself, it won’t cause any difficulties.

If the eccentric is moved clockwise, then the sash will be pressed more against the frame. If it’s the other way around, it’s less.

There is a small strip on the eccentric, it will allow you to determine the pressing force. In summer, it is better to loosen the pressure, but setting up plastic windows for the winter involves tightening them to limit the supply of cold air.

How to seal plastic windows

Rubber seals help to obtain a tighter fit between the parts of the window structure. It is necessary to constantly maintain the cleanliness of the seal and ensure that no cracks or holes. It is easy to clean it with a regular dry sponge or cloth, then lubricate it to prevent the formation of cracks.

In the case when the seal has completely lost its elasticity, a large number of cracks have formed on it - in order to prepare plastic windows for winter, it needs to be replaced. If this is not done, the structure will begin to let air in from the street and will not protect against cold, noise and dust.

Replace the seal you can use the following instructions:

1. Open the doors and remove the old seal.
2. Process the grooves, clean out dirt and small debris.
3. Insert the new seal starting from the top corner. It should be well secured around the perimeter.
4. No need to stretch the rubber, otherwise the angles will not match.

To properly insulate plastic windows for the winter with your own hands, you do not need to turn the eccentrics to maximum when replacing the seal. This will cause the new rubber to quickly lose elasticity.

How to close plastic windows for the winter

If PVC is classified as adjustable, that is, the trunnion has hex input- this means it can be switched to winter mode. It's easy to close for the winter:

1. Raise the fittings roller.
2. Use a hexagon to adjust the pressure.
3. Lower the roller into place.
4. Turn the roller over to the bias side.
5. This should be done with each video.

Sometimes after carrying out manipulations, the fastening of the handle of the structure becomes loose. To fix this problem, rotate the plastic plate next to the handle 90 degrees, then tighten the screws.

If the handle is difficult to turn, you need to lubricate the mechanism special oil.

Do-it-yourself window insulation

Adjusting plastic windows in winter involves replacing elements that have stopped working correctly.

Replacing the bead

When an air leak is localized near the glazing bead, it should be changed. Do it like this:

• Using a narrow spatula or thin knife, the glazing bead is pryed up and pulled out.
• The new one is selected according to size.
• The new glazing bead is placed in place, with a rubber hammer, and lightly tapped into the groove.

A new glazing bead is inexpensive: only 100 - 200 rubles. but this detail is very important, it is responsible for the entry of street air into the room.

Replacing the fixing pad

During operation, the pad loses elasticity due to frequent and sudden temperature changes. You can replace it like this:

1. Remove the glazing beads.
2. Pull out the pads.
3. Dismantle the glass unit.
4. Remove the old tape and install the new one.
5. Reassemble all structural elements.

Sealing seams with thermal insulation materials

Another effective method of insulating window structures is sealing seams and joints with a special one.

If installed incorrectly, this is the only way to preserve heat in the room in winter.

The main thing is to choose the right way to insulate plastic structures.

In the future, this may play a decisive role in the question of whether it will blow from the windows in winter.

You can insulate the structure to prepare plastic windows for winter such materials:

• – affordable, quick to use, but begins to deteriorate due to temperature changes and under the influence of ultraviolet radiation;
• mineral wool is a fire-resistant material, it is environmentally friendly, it is good for insulating a window sill or large gaps.
• silicone sealant is a reliable material and affordable, but it does not have very good thermal insulation;
• a special film is transparent, a double-glazed window is glued onto us and helps to effectively retain heat;
• polystyrene foam is the most affordable material; it is used to seal seams on slopes;
• construction tape - glued on top of sealant, foam to increase thermal insulation properties;
• warm mixtures - used to seal joints and seams on the outside.

Note! If there are even small cracks, it is better to insulate plastic windows for the winter using any specified method.

Video: preparing windows for winter

Conclusion

The problems described in the article appear if installed incorrectly metal-plastic construction or if used for too long - longer than 10 years. During installation, installers must explain the properties of PVC construction and teach owners how to use it in different modes.

The design of plastic windows assumes the ability to adjust the degree of pressing of the window sash; this function is intended to transfer the system to seasonal winter-summer modes.

Plastic windows are installed in almost every third apartment or private house, but not all users are aware of the operational capabilities that metal-plastic windows provide.

One of the functional features is the transfer of the plastic window mode from winter to summer mode, and vice versa. This ability is determined by the type of fittings used. Of course, this property is not inherent to all PVC windows, but only to those on which more modern fittings are installed.

Modes of plastic windows - what are they and what is it?

1. Winter mode of plastic windows- this mode allows for a tighter fit of the window sash frame to the window frame and, accordingly, helps save heat in the winter;
2. Summer mode of plastic windows- characterized by a less tight fit of the sash, which ensures constant air circulation between the room and the environment, i.e. allows you to implement micro-ventilation mode.
3. Standard position(the mode of average pressing of the sash to the frame - the eccentric is in the middle), as a rule, a window with a double-glazed window in this mode works equally well in both winter and summer, providing optimal pressing of the seal.

Why do you need to adjust the modes of plastic windows?

Setting the modes makes it possible to extend the service life of the window. The adjustment allows you to change the degree of fit of the sash to the frame. After all, in winter the material contracts, and in summer it expands. Adjusting the PVC window fittings makes it possible to reduce wear on the seal and fasteners.

In addition, reasons to change modes include:

• blows from the window. Cold air in winter or dust in summer is what one strives to avoid when installing a new window;

• The door opens/closes poorly. For example, if a plastic window is jammed in the ventilation mode, then one of the reasons may be an incorrectly set mode;

• sagging window sash. It is a consequence of wear on the hinges and can be eliminated by switching to winter mode or replacing the fittings.

The ability to switch between modes is implemented in fittings from well-known manufacturers, such as: Maco, Roto, Siegenia Aubi, GU. However, today, setting up fittings is the rule rather than the exception for all fittings of a class higher than the budget one.

How to determine whether it is possible to switch the windows to winter mode?

Often during installation, the user does not receive information about the capabilities of window fittings. To understand whether transfer to different modes is provided for a particular PVC window, you need to study the appearance (labeling) of the fittings, in particular the trunnion.

A trunnion or eccentric is an element of fittings that allows you to adjust the degree of pressure of the sash to the window frame. It is located on the side of the sash.

If the surface of the trunnion has holes for a key (in the form of an asterisk, screwdriver, hexagon) or the trunnion has an oval shape, this indicates that this hardware allows the window to be used in different seasonal modes.

Do I need to switch the windows to winter mode?

In autumn, with the approach of cold weather, it is recommended to switch the fittings to winter mode. Otherwise, there is a high probability of blowing from the side of the sash. If the seal is in good condition, you can leave the window on summer mode. During the warming period, switching the fittings to summer mode helps reduce the pressure (load) on the seal and is a prerequisite for its long-term operation.

How to determine what mode plastic windows are in?

There are two ways to check what mode the window is running in:

• Assess the degree of pressing of the window sash to the frame. Take a sheet of paper and place it between the sash and the frame. If, after closing the window, the clamped sheet is pulled out with minimal force, then the window is set to summer mode; if it does not pull out (breaks), then it’s set to winter mode.

• Look at the position of the trunnion (eccentric). There is a dash (dot, asterisk) on the round pin by which you can evaluate the mode. If the line is oriented towards the room, this is winter mode, if towards the street - summer mode.

For oval trunnions, a different rule applies. If it is located vertically, the sash is weakly pressed against the window frame, which allows us to say that the window is set to summer mode. If horizontal - strong pressure, i.e. winter mode.

How to switch plastic windows to winter mode or summer mode

Transferring between modes is simple, but each step must be given attention, otherwise the fittings will fail and will require replacement or major window repairs. Some users prefer to seek services from the company that installed the windows.

However, the translation process is not complicated and it is quite possible to complete it yourself, spending no more than half an hour on everything.

How to adjust plastic windows for winter mode with your own hands

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

1. determine the location of the trunnions. The number of eccentrics depends on the size of the sash. As a rule, there are three of them on the handle side and one on the opposite side (where the hinges, awnings, and also on the top and bottom of the sash). You need to find all the trunnions, because... when changing modes, you need to change the position of each of them;
2. wipe all window elements and thoroughly clean the fittings. This will prevent dust from entering when turning the trunnions and protect them from mechanical damage;
3. clean lubricated elements. After the transition, it is better to reapply the lubricant;
4. consider the trunnions. Find stripes or other markings on their surface indicating the operating mode of the window. If the trunnions are oval, pay attention to their position relative to the horizontal;
5. Rotate each of the trunnions to the required position. You need to turn it either using a hexagon (or other suitable tool) or pliers (for oval journals).
6. check the accuracy of the translation by placing and then removing a sheet of paper from a closed window.

Note. Some manufacturers of plastic windows make the trunnions “recessed” into the sash. Before turning them, you need to pull them out, then set them in the desired position and push them in again. The turning procedure is similar to the procedure for moving the hands on a mechanical wristwatch.

Please note - when switching to winter mode, the long line (or dot) should be directed towards the room (i.e. towards the sealing rubber), and in the case of an oval trunnion it is located horizontally.

How to switch plastic windows to winter mode - video

For your information, the winter ventilation mode for plastic windows works as standard and the window opens in the usual way.

The transition to summer mode is carried out similarly, in reverse order. Knowing the sequence of transition to winter mode, it is easy to set the window fittings to summer mode.

Features of setting up window fittings - rules

• Despite the fact that the fittings provide the possibility of switching between modes, it is not recommended to do this in the first year of operation of the window. The window is still functioning optimally;

• translation is carried out once every six months. Moreover, the duration of the winter period is shorter than that of the summer;

• It is undesirable to operate the window in winter mode in summer, as this increases the rate of wear of the seal.

Is it worth switching plastic windows to winter mode?

Constant change of modes leads to the fact that the seal loses its properties. This happens especially quickly in winter mode, because... the pressure of the trunnion on it increases. In addition to the impact of the trunnion, the seal is affected by low temperature and high humidity. This leads to destruction of the seal (it starts to blow, there is a need for), the worn rubber seal requires replacement. In summer mode, the seal will last at least twice as long.

Conclusion

Despite the possibilities that modern window fittings provide, you need to evaluate the feasibility of each option. On the one hand, switching to winter/summer mode provides a more comfortable temperature in the room and reduces heat loss through the window opening. On the other hand, translation contributes to rapid wear of the seal, which necessitates its replacement and additional costs. Therefore, whether to switch windows for winter or not is up to each user based on his personal preferences.

How to prepare plastic windows for winter?

How to prepare plastic windows for winter?

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

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

Let's start with cleaning

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

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

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

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

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

Setting up window fittings for winter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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