Replacement Spring balances

Question

Hi,

I represent the window committee for an 180 unit ocean front condo in Long Beach NY. We have significant complaints about how hard it is to open the windows. Complaints continue even though several units have already had there spiral spring balances replaced. The building is looking into the problem on a longer term basis, but that is a committee project so it will take a while. So we are looking to find the right vendor who can help us spec out the appropriate replacement parts. From your website I see that we have the 2 following sizes:

21" SERIES 900 SPIRAL BALANCE - red tip, 3/8's dia

27" SERIES 600 SPIRAL TILT WINDOW BALANCE

Product Code: S600-27 - no color tips on any existing lifts?

So if the top and bottom frames are the same dimensions, why are the balances different?

Thanks,

Eric

Bob · Accepted Answer

Hi Eric. While I guess it's not impossible, it would be very unusual to have two different types of spiral balances used for sashes in the same window. Please confirm the diameters you measured are accurate; note that sometimes older spiral balances that have a flimsy plastic outer tube, rather than the newer metal one, can be difficult to measure the diameter for.

Assuming your measurements are correct though, I would then try to verify if these windows had their balances replaced before and are not the originals. If so, it's possible someone used the wrong balances (for just an example, using the 3/8" Series 900 instead of the 5/8" Series 600), and this would also explain why the replacements didn't work well. It would be best to verify what balances are the originals from construction, since those are almost for sure the balances that the windows should be using.

For any balances that don't have a color tip, you must obtain the exact weight of the window sash. You can then match that exact weight with one of the weight ranges listed alongside each color tip option under the product description of any spiral balance's product page.

Take a look at the videos on this page for further details, and let me know what you find out or if you have any further questions.