How to Determine Spiral Balance Tip Color

Question

I have several spiral balances that are 3/8" x 29", but as you can see that these balances have no colored tips. I have one window that has red tips. Two of my other window are built similarly so I'm confident with the picking them out. How do I know what color balancer to buy to match the existing.

I have a window with a double coil balancer. Are all of the double coil balances the same?

Tom · Accepted Answer

The best and easiest way to determine what color tip you need for a spiral balance that's missing its own is to weigh your sash on a scale. Then, refer to the chart on our S900-29 store page that tells you how much weight each tip carries and select appropriately.

I'm not sure if I understand your second question. Not all double coil balances are the same, no; in fact, there are dozens of different styles. Your assembly appears to use our 15-199 pivot shoe. This is compatible with two different springs: the 1/2" thick Series 160 and the 3/8" thick Series 165. You will need to measure your springs to confirm which coil is the one you need.