Replacement Combination Units 

Controlling Condensation

Condensation between the window unit and the combination unit may be an indicator that the combination unit is performing as intended. Windows are typically the coolest areas of interior walls, even if they have combination units, storm panels, glazed with welded insulating glass Low-E4® insulating glass or triple pane glass. When the warm room temperature air comes in contact with the glass surface, the air is cooled and if there is enough moisture in the air, the dew point will be reached and the water in the air will condense.

Recommended humidity levels in winter months should not exceed 30-35%. If these humidity levels are exceeded, you may want to take measures to reduce the interior humidity levels such as:

Providing outside ventilation to the combination unit.

Checking the weatherstrip on the combination unit and window unit to make sure the weatherstrip is intact. This is also a good time to check the window lock, making sure the window is closing fully when the lock is engaged.

Making sure blinds or curtains are open during the day.

Leaving ceiling fans on to promote air movement.

For additional tips on controlling condensation, see Condensation on the Exterior of Window or Patio Door Glass.

Cleaning

We recommend cleaning the insect screen mesh and combination unit frame with mild soap and water. A sponge or soft cloth can be used to remove any debris. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the insect screen frame mesh and combination unit frame to remove all soap residue. Be careful not to scrub the insect screen mesh too hard as damage to the insect screen mesh could result. See Cleaning Window and Patio Door Glass for general glass cleaning information.

Double-Hung Combination Units

The sill can be cleaned by raising the lower panel and unlocking the side wing blade locks on the combination unit frame. Hangers at the head will allow the unit to move outward sufficiently to clean the sill.

Gliding Window Combination Units

Remove the insect screens and panels. The insect screen is held in place with wing blades. The stationary panel (fixed) can also be removed by removing the wing blades. To remove the operating panel, slide it all the way to the opposite side and remove using cutouts in the track. Once removed, wipe down and clean all components.

Painting

Prior to applying paint to the aluminum insect screen frame and/or combination unit frame, please inspect the insect screen frame and/or combination unit frame and determine if the paint is faded or cracked. The information for prepping and application information will vary slightly based on the information you gather during the inspection.

Touch-Up Paint

Recommended if the paint has faded and only a small area requires maintenance.

1. Buff the combination unit frame with, steel wool, or 240-grit sandpaper until the surface is dull

    

2. Remove any dust particles with a soft, dry cloth

    

3. Clean the frame by wiping it with a surface conditioner or acetone

    

4. Apply touch-up paint

Touch-Up and Spray Paint 

Painting Large Areas

1. Buff with 200 grit sandpaper until the surface is dull

    

2. Remove any dust particles with a soft, dry cloth

    

3. Clean the frame by wiping it with a surface conditioner* or acetone*

    

4. Prime the frame's surface with a fast-dry alkyd primer* in a neutral color

    

5. When the primer is dry, remove the operating panel and apply a high-quality oil or water-based paint*

Painting Cracked Paint

1. Strip the paint off the frame using a paint stripper or sandpaper

    

2. Remove any dust particles with a soft, dry cloth

    

3. Clean the frame by wiping it with a surface conditioner* or acetone*

    

4. Prime the frame's surface with a fast-dry alkyd primer* in a neutral color

    

5. When the primer is dry, remove the operating panel and apply a high-quality oil or water-based paint*

*Always read and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for proper use.

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