As the cold weather approaches, I decided to insulate my balcony, turning it into a comfortable space for relaxation or work. However, despite the improvements, I noticed that cold air still sneaks in through the plastic windows during strong winds, making it feel drafty inside.
When I ran my hand along the window frame, I could distinctly feel the flow of cool air. Even new windows can have this issue, as they need occasional adjustments. In this article, I will explain how to quickly adjust your plastic windows to avoid drafts and keep your home warm.
One simple way to check if your window is letting in cold air is by using a lighter. If the flame flickers or sways, it means the window needs adjustment.
Adjusting the window can be done in just a few minutes without the need for professionals. You will need a 4mm hex wrench for this task.
Each plastic window has three eccentric cams that control the pressure of the sash against the frame. These cams can be adjusted to either a winter or summer setting. Depending on the season, rotating the eccentric cams will change the level of pressure between the window sash and the frame.
To prevent drafts, the cams should be adjusted so that the majority of them face inward, towards the room. This ensures that the seals press tightly against the frame, preventing cold air from entering. For better understanding, you can refer to a photo that shows the position of the cam for both winter and summer settings.
Once the lower eccentric cam is adjusted, move on to the other two to ensure even pressure around the entire window perimeter.
Additionally, it’s important to inspect the condition of the seals. Over time, seals lose their elasticity, and if this happens, they should be replaced.
After adjusting the window, the cold air will no longer penetrate, which you can confirm by checking with the lighter—if the flame remains steady, you’ve successfully eliminated drafts. This simple procedure will help you keep your home warm, prevent drafts, and avoid snow accumulation on the windowsill during winter.
