Window channel balancers - 19-5 - AirChek double hung tilt window

Quick Learner from NJ

Oct 7, 2020 2:09 pm

Could you help me understand if the window channel balancers can be replaced? It is a double hung tilt window about 17 years old, from a company called AirChek in NJ. The channel balance length is 19 and it says 19-5. The top sash still works but the bottom does not. I can see there's no white cord showing like in the other windows that still work. Many thanks.

1 user uploaded image

6 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Oct 12, 2020 12:40 pm

It's difficult to tell from your photo what kind of balance you need. I can only see the bottom most tip of it. Can you remove it from the window and show me clearer photos? I'd like to see the top end, as well as the stamp printed on the metal channel itself. Thank you.

Quick Learner from NJ

Oct 13, 2020 12:21 pm

I did more research and am wondering if I can try to replace the shoes and attach to the channel balancer cords through that loop that's visible on the end of the balancer? The challenge with taking the balance out is that there's a solid piece of vinyl framing on the window that covers the area where the lower sash's channel balance is attached. I can't see anything stamped on it, but there is a manufacturer sticker inside the window (that is difficult to access ) that says 19-5. I attached a few more photos where you can see the area I just mentioned. Also, I took a picture of what I think are parts of the old shoes that were still stuck in there. Hoping I can do something to fix rather than replace the window. Thanks again.

3 user uploaded images

Tom from SWISCO

Oct 13, 2020 1:12 pm

If the shoe is the only thing that broke, then you can just replace that. Yours is way too damaged to make out, though. We need to see an unbroken version out of the window. We will also need its precise width and thickness.

If you do need a whole balance, though, then we need the information requested above. I'm afraid there's no way around that.

Quick Learner from NJ

Nov 10, 2020 5:07 pm

I was able to get one of the shoes out of the window. The dimensions are: 2 inches length, 1 3/16 width, 1/2 inch thickness. The channel balancer is 20 inches long. It looks intact but I included a photo of it in case it needs to be replaced too. THank you.

2 user uploaded images

Tom from SWISCO

Nov 11, 2020 12:59 pm

Thanks for getting back to me. The Pivot Shoe looks like possibly our 15-210, but compare the dimensions to see if it matches up. Also see the 15-225 Tamp R Lock. The balance appears to be a Series 770. Measure the metal channel length to confirm the length needed. You'll need to weigh the window sash to know what stamp option to select. Let me know if you have further questions.