Windows hard to open/close

Question

Windows are Alcoa tilt type and are very hard to open/close. When you get it down all the way (fighting it to go down) it springs back up 3-4". You have to hold it down to be able to close the latch.

Can these be adjusted or do the spiral balance have to be replaced?

House was built in 1994.

Paul · Accepted Answer

The tension might be too tight on the spirals. I would start by using a charging tool like our 75-006 to hook on to the spiral and unwind it a couple of turns. If that doesn't work, maybe add some white grease on the spiral and re-charge it with two or three turns. If both fail, then you will need a new balance.