window balance

Quick Learner from Victorville

Aug 1, 2023 11:43 am

Hello,

I need to replace my window balances but cannot identify which ones I need. I know it is 1/2 inch width and 21 inch length.

Thank you,
Jebbie

4 user uploaded images

5 Replies

Lauren from SWISCO

Aug 2, 2023 12:34 pm

Hi Jebbie, thank you for posting,

With this combination of attachments, you could have either an S380 or S385 channel balance. You’ll need to measure as shown below. The Series 380 has a 1" bottom attachment, and the Series 385 has a 1-3/32" attachment.

Is the 21" length provided, the length of the metal channel only excluding the nylon attachments? Are you able to provide the number stamped onto the metal channel? If no number is visible, we will need to know the weight of the window sash. Thank you!

Comparison of the S378, S380 and S385 balance shoes.

Quick Learner from Victorville

Aug 4, 2023 9:56 am

Hi Lauren,

I'm not sure if these numbers make sense but it's really hard to read, I think it is one of these possibilities: 203 05B or 20B USB. Do any of these make sense to you?

Also the 21in is just the metal piece. My balance attachment piece measures 1 inch.

When you say measure the window sash, is that the window piece that comes out?

Thank you

Quick Learner from Victorville

Aug 4, 2023 10:38 am

Hi Lauren,

I've added some more photos and remeasured the bottom, it's actually 1-3/32inch. I found one balance for a larger window that had the writing on it, will this be helpful? Also my windows are double pained.

Thank you,
Jebbie

5 user uploaded images

Lauren from SWISCO

Aug 4, 2023 1:02 pm

Great! For a 1-3/32" shoe size, you would need the S385-21 channel balance. As for the numbers provided, they do not directly translate to our options. Unfortunately the number from a larger number would not be a match.

I would recommend getting the weight of the sash to confirm. The sash is the moveable window frame that the balances support when opened. The sash will need to be removed and placed on a bathroom scale.

Once the weight is obtained, you can compare to the strength chart on the S385-21 product page to choose the correct stamp option.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions!