Determining channel balance length

A quick learner from California says:
I am installing channel balances on a window in a rental unit. The prior balances are not available for reference.

What is the best way to measure length for a new balance? Is it a problem if the balance is too short? Thank you.
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Bob from SWISCO responded:

Thanks for writing in. Yes, it's certainly an issue if the balance is too short or just not precisely the right length it needs to be. You really need to get the right size for these balances to function optimally. 

Let's work from the top. First, you need to know what balance Series you need. I see you were looking at our Series 385. Is that what you need? It's very important to confirm this. Second, to determine the length of the balance you need, you will need to measure the height of the visible glass and add 1". For instance, if you had 20" high visible glass in your window sash, then you'd want a 21" long balance. To know what stamp option you need, you're going to need the exact weight of the window sash. Let us know if you have any questions.

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