L J Pratley & Partners

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How Safe are Electric Windows?

More and more people are choosing to modernise their properties and integrate automated or smart technology. Doing so can offer some incredible advantages, from improved convenience and ease of use to increased levels of security.

We’re seeing a widespread increase in the use of electric window openers in both commercial and industrial buildings alike. There's a good reason for this, as they can offer a number of benefits over the traditional manual alternatives. However, as with all new and advanced technology, some people might have some fears or concerns. We’re here to allay those fears and explain how safe electric windows are.

How do Electric Windows Work?

Electric windows open and close automatically, with no need for physical human interaction. They do so through the use of a small motor called an actuator that is attached to a cable. The cable, which is attached to the window through a conduit, is wound by the motor to open and close the window, depending on the particular direction of the current.

Electricity can worry some people, and it can be incredibly dangerous at high levels. However, our electric windows operate at a safe level of 24V, meaning there is little-to-no risk of electricity-related injury.

However, as they are operated by electricity, what happens if there was to be a power cut? Don’t worry, a power cut won’t mean your windows are stuck open. Our electric windows come with a backup power supply so that they can continue operating as normal in the event of a power outage. 

Prevent Damage From Weather

Water getting into your property can cause significant damage. It can ruin equipment, fixtures and fittings and even cause structural damage if there is enough of it. Manual windows can easily be opened and forgotten about. For example, if you were to leave your office without closing the windows, rain could get in and cause chaos.

Electric windows, on the other hand, can protect your property against such an eventuality. By connecting them to rain-detection sensors, electric windows can be automated to close when it starts raining, preventing water ingress.

Fire Safety

Fires in commercial buildings are incredibly serious. Not only can they destroy property, but they also come with a serious threat of injury and risk to life. Ensuring your property is well-equipped to deal with a fire is absolutely crucial.

Your electric window openers can be linked to and integrated with your property’s fire alarm system. If a fire were to start and the alarm system triggered, the electric windows would respond and open immediately.

Smoke can be one of the most dangerous elements of a fire. Your windows opening will allow smoke to escape and slow down how quickly the building fills with smoke and will allow for greater ventilation.

Sometimes, a fire can mean that taking the stairs or elevator is impossible. With the windows often acting as emergency escape routes. Having to contend with manual window openers in an emergency situation will cost you time that you can’t afford, so electric windows can prove far safer in the event of a fire.

Conclusion

It can be easy to feel intimidated by new technology. Electric windows may seem futuristic and complex, but the reality is that they are incredibly safe and beneficial additions to any property. They use a relatively low voltage to operate and will not pose any risks or danger. What’s more, they will help prevent your property being damaged by adverse weather conditions and improve your property’s fire safety capabilities. Installing electric windows won’t just modernise your property, it will greatly improve its safety as well.