Wondering if anyone might have some advice on how I could get this window working again. I’m not 100% sure what’s even wrong with it. I have to go inside a small shower to get to it and it’s also very high up, so it’s tough. I was able to open it once when we moved in back in early 2020, then two 20ish year olds were using the shower daily and the next time I tried to open it, it was just stuck.

As shown, there are locks on both sides. The crank is in the center. I assume the up position is unlocked, but it still doesn’t open nor does it sound like any kind of lock is being released. When I turn the crank, it spins for a turn and then gives really strong resistance. Not sure if that’s because it’s trying to open a locked or stuck window, or if it’s because it’s broken.

I don’t want to mess with it too much in case I get it open and then it’s stuck open during hurricane season and a month away from winter, but if this is something that could potentially be a simple fix then I might try it out.

So I was just hoping anyone had any advice. The ventilation fan in that bathroom doesn’t work and there’s been a sort of acetone/paint thinner/sharpie marker kind of smell happening for about a week now, so I’d love to be able to open the window and see if it can air out. Right now it seems dangerous to even be in there, but that’s another story entirely.

Thanks for any advice!

The window.

Left lock

Right lock

Perspective shot to show how high up and wide it is

Comments

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festerwl t1_iuhshgg wrote on October 31, 2022 at 1:12 PM

Up is indeed unlocked. Turn the crank counter clockwise to open, there will be some resistance. If you are worried about breaking it pull the screen out and gently push on the lower part of the window as you turn the crank.

Worst case if the crank breaks you can disconnect its parts and pull the window in manually and engage the locks to keep it closed.

SnooEpiphanies8525 t1_iui0bp0 wrote on October 31, 2022 at 2:12 PM

I don't think it's the (main) problem, but you can also buy replacement cranks for much less than replacing the whole window. I've seen a few of those cranks all but explode internally

dasookwat t1_iuhsqs4 wrote on October 31, 2022 at 1:14 PM

if i were to guess: the locks aren't locks but prevent the window from openening too far. They should move pretty free up and down, and by pushing the window out, they move upward.

Can you remove the screen to get a better view? In my experience, windows sometimes get stuck. especially if You have some foam insulation on it. Usually all it requires is some percussive maintenance: remove screen, turn the crank up to where it meets resistance, then just whack the window frame with the palm of your hand on the bottem, see if it comes loose. Don't use tools or hit too hard. Glass can break. Oh, also check the outside. Maybe someone screwed it to the frame?

danauns t1_iuhzqqx wrote on October 31, 2022 at 2:08 PM

Locks up, remove the screen, push the window out from the bottom.

New2Suburb t1_iuihvro wrote on October 31, 2022 at 4:14 PM

Had a similar problem and it was two things:

The crank typically connects to an arm that slides along a metal bar as it opens/closes (sorry - probably using the wrong language). The metal bar may be so rusted that the arm cannot slide along. You can (as someone mentioned) take off the screen, unlock, turn the handle and push the window gently with your other hand to open. Once it’s open you can check that bar for rust. If seriously rusty unscrew that rusted bar, bathe in vinegar /scrub to clean it up.
The gears in the crank had warn down to the point where they couldn’t generate enough force to open the window. I believe it’s called a window “operator”. Anderson window website can help you find the right operator. Replacing the operator means removing the bottom of the window frame and replacing the mechanism. Lots of YouTube videos helped me here.

Edit: noticed the brand in the photo

One other note: I also have a similar window that no longer opens because the wall was damaged/caused the frame to sag just enough to make opening the window impossible. Wall damage was caused by a poorly cared for outdoor shower directly outside.

Hope this helps!