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I have Anderson double-hung Tilt-Wash windows, with the vinyl jamb liners. I want to install hidden or flush alarm switches in the jamb liners while I still have the walls open. I was told there exists switches that work specifically with vinyl liners, but I haven’t found any info nor sources.
I’ve searched Andersons web site and their product guide. Plus I’ve checked out alarm supplies. Nada.
Anyone know if these switches really exist and where I can get them?
TIA,
Phil
Replies
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Try: ademco.com Don't know if they have what you are looking for but they are VERY big in alarm supplies. Good luck
*All you need is a standard 3/8 alarm contact switch, it goes in the sill of the window front, not the side. The magnet goes in the underside of the sash. The thing you have to be carefull about with anderson windows in that they have a string and pully balance system. You have to install the switch towards the center of the window, or you will drill though the balance system. I dont recall how far from the edge you must go, but i believe it is marked on the window, but anderso can tell you.Good LuckDavid
*I've been thinking about this too -- I have marvins with liners to put in. One nuisance with the double-hung & sill placement is that you will need sensors for both sash. Too much hassle, IMHO, and no ventilation option.There must be a better way. (Motion sensors won't work -- big cat.) One trick is to put the alarm switch on the exterior insect screen frame.These folks make a variety of sensors, too: http://www.sentrol.com/products/Please post what you end up doing!
*Andrew, glass break sensors are one option, they are around $20. We dont alarm top sashes unless customer is very concerned. If a burgler is going to break in thru a window, he not likely to climb in thru the top sash. this allow the top sash, to be opened for vent. IF you bottem sash will stay shut without being latched(a problem sometimes). We then add motions to divide up the house, so if someone does get in they will be confined to one area. They have pet smart motions that can be used with small pets, or you can use a IR beam in a hall. Good luckDavid
*FWIW, if you can stand the look of a visible alarm component use wireless. If you want a venting option, put the transmitter on the sash and an extra magnet on the jamb where it will be opposite the transmitter when the sash is at the venting position you desire. Just make sure the sash will stay put at the designated spot to avoid a false alarm.
*Motion sensors also get triggered by younguns trottin around in the middle of the night or early am before you can shut down the alarm. I'd also like to protect against burgular entry during the night while I'm home and asleep.There are also special screen alarm "threads" that when broken by a forced entry, will trip the circuit. They are very pricey to buy already made and labor to retrofit is prohibitive.Ventilation is a requirement for me too.I'm still lookin.Phil
*I was told in a recent inquiry to a Marvin dealer that any penetration into the sash would void the warranty. Anybody heard different? Skip Didn't Charles Bronson address this problem in "Death Wish 2" ?