Need Help Choosing Window Balance Option

Question

I need to purchase balances for five different sized non-tilt windows. I have determined all five windows use two Series 380 balances each, but each window has different balance lengths and sash weights as follows:

1. length 27 inches and weight 28 pounds
2. length 33 inches and weight 21 pounds
3. length 27 inches and weight 41 pounds
4. length 33 inches and weight 32 pounds
5. length 27 inches and weight 24 pounds

Can you let me know what "Option" I should select for each of the five window sizes above?

As background, my home & windows are eight years old and the balances were replaced by a vendor sent to my home by the home builder at the five-year point. The windows never operated very well after they were replaced, so I don't trust the codes printed on the current balances to use when I order replacements. I don't believe the builder's vendor used the proper strength balances; they definitely did not verify the window weights and the vendor just put them in quickly and left. I want to purchase and install balances you recommend for the various sizes/sash weights above so I know I'm using balances with the right resistance.

Tom · Accepted Answer

Thank you for contacting us. I'll put my recommendations in your order:

1. 2650, which can carry 26 through 30 pounds.
2. 3230, which can carry 18 through 23 pounds.
3. 41 pounds is actually a very heavy sash, and we do not have a standard option that can support this kind of weight. Can you please double check the weight of that sash, just to be sure?
4. 3250, which can carry 28 through 32 pounds.
5. 2640, which can carry 19 through 26 pounds.

Please keep in mind that the weight range information is based on 2 balances per sash. Balances are designed assuming friction in the jamb weather-strip will carry a portion of the sash weight. Suggested sash weights are approximate.

Please let me know if you have any other questions!