Spiral balances keep breaking

A landlord from Bensalem PA says:
August 15, 2010
I am currently replacing spiral balances that keep breaking. They have a red tip, should I buy a stronger grade, Possibly blue tip, to stop them from breaking so easily? Please respond quickly as I need to have the apartment re-inspected after the repair, before tenant can move in. Thanks, Rob
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Dave Sr. from SWISCO responded:
August 16, 2010
Before you buy more, see if they need to be "charged" using our 75-006 tool or 75-005 tool, depending on the balance series and sash. "Charging" a spiral balance is adding tension to the balance by turning the spiral inside the balance tube and then plugging it into the pivot shoe or sash bracket.

Did they break as soon as you put new ones in? If so, they might be too short.

You may need a stronger balance, if this is the case, reply with the sash weight so we can recommend the proper replacement.
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