correct spiral balance

Question

the spiral balances on my tilt window won't hold the window up. I have tried to adjust tension but there is no increase in tension when done. The balances are 9/16" diameter and 23" length with red tips, the windows weigh 17 pounds and every window this size has the balances fail should I be using the blue tip balances on these instead of the red?

Tom · Accepted Answer

Sounds like you have an S600-23 spiral balance. If so, the Red Tip should be more than enough to hold up your sash weight of 17 pounds. How many times are you winding the spiral? You may need to give it an extra few turns.

If that's not it, then it could be it's just time to replace the balances.