Spiral-looking metal rod in channel balance??

Question

My windows are having a lot of trouble opening and closing and making not good sounds? I think I need to replace the balances but when I look at the options, I don't see ones that look quite like these that I have in the photo. I'm not there now otherwise I would take better photos. I didn't realize I would need to upload photos. I'm sorry. I just thought I'd have an easier time finding the correct replacement parts. Thank you so much for any  guidance you can provide!

Bob · Accepted Answer

Thanks for posting. No worries at all! Yes, it's a bit bewildering at first when one sees how many different possible parts your window might use. But don't worry, that's why we're here.

There are a few different kinds of window balances besides channel balances. You actually have spiral balances, which are tubes with those inner spiral rods that are tensioned to support the window sash. Because you have a tilt-in window, I can tell you that you have either our Series 600 or Series 900 Spiral Balance. The Series 600 has a tube that is 5/8" in diameter, whereas the Series 900 has a 3/8" diameter tube. You'll need to remove the balances to get that diameter measurement accurately. To know what length spiral balance you need, measure the outer tube, up to and not including the colored tip from which the spiral rod protrudes.

Once you know the Series and length you need, you have to choose a color tip option. This designates the weight range your spiral balance can support. I can't quite make out that color tip in your photos. If there is no color tip, or you're unclear about its color, weigh the window sash the spiral balances support on a bathroom scale. Give me that exact weight and I can tell you the color to choose.

See the videos below which explain everything I just said, and also show how to remove and replace these spiral balances. You also might want to check the pivot shoes--they're the plastic blocks those spiral rods attach to and from which the window pivots. Let me know if they appear damaged, or if you have any other questions!