Wrong Strength - how to choose?

A quick learner from California says:
February 19, 2016
I recently ordered four 12" series 385 channel balances and chose option 1110. The balances fit, but the window hangs low. Did I choose the wrong strength? Can you recommend the correct strength? It's a wide window -- somewhere in the range of 80 - 90" wide, and perhaps 24" tall.
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Paul from SWISCO responded:
February 23, 2016
Yes, it sounds like 1110 is too weak for your window sashes. What was the number printed on your old balances? If you aren't sure, or if you don't seen anything, then you will need to weigh your sash to determine the proper option.
A quick learner from California says:
February 26, 2016
I'm surprised to learn that this is not a standard option -- ours re Milgard windows, so I would expect balances for them to be standard.

My weighing of the sash could very well be imperfect. I simply placed it on a (non-digital) bathroom scale to estimate the weight. What if they weigh more or less than my estimated 13 lbs.?.0"
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Paul from SWISCO responded:
February 26, 2016
It's only custom because of the weight of the sash. It's a little heavier than what is typical for your size balance, which is fairly small. If 13 pounds is just an estimate, I would highly recommend reweighing and getting a more exact weight. If the balance is too weak, your windows won't stay up as well, if at all. If the balance is too strong, you'll find that they drift up, and you will have trouble closing them.

Also, what is the stamp printed on your old balance? That would give us a good clue as to what you may need.
A quick learner from la ca says:
March 9, 2016
Re-weighed and the dial falls directly between 12 & 13 lbs. Photos of balances from the other windows in the set attached.
User submitted a photo of a window balance.
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Paul from SWISCO responded:
March 10, 2016
Perfect, thanks. I'm thinking you should go with the 1150 option, then. Two balances with this option can carry a sash weight range of 12 through 15 pounds.
12" Series 385 Channel Balance
12" Series 385 Channel Balance
S385-12
$9.34
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