Doors and Windows - Dbl Hung window wont stay up

I have a double hung window that will not stay up when I open it. Very dangerous as it slams down super fast. Is there a way to repair it? Thanks/Jina

What kind of window Jina?

Is it an old wood window with weights and ropes? Newer wood with spring balances? Aluminum? Vinyl?

Hi-It is a vinyl replacement window. Jina

OK..now we're talking. Is it a tilt out style window? Did you put it in, or was it there before?

Anyway...either a balance (the mechanism that holds the window up) has failed or needs adjustment, or the window has not engaged the balance correctly. Was the sash ever removed?

Look in the window channel on the sides above the sash when closed. You may see a string, a round aluminum (normally) tube, or a square aluminum(normally) housing.

If you don't, then it probably uses whats called a constant force or tape balance, and that can be tough.

Compare it to another window that operates correctly.

Sorry for all the questions...but each type attaches and functions differently.

The windows were already here-I compared 2 windows. NOT a good thing. The good window has metal "chains" or pullies going all the way down. There are NO pullies on the bad window. I wonder what happened to them. I had previously removed the stickers from another window to try to find the manufacturer-another window is fogged & needs to be replaced. The windows were made in 2003. I wonder if they are still under warrantee. I will have to call around to find the manufacturer. Jina

They may still be under warranty, but that normally only applies to the original buyer/homeowner. Probably be best to take some pics and stop by a few places that sell/install replacement windows. Not places like HD or Lowes, but some local places that have been around a while. Someone may recognize the brand.

I've never seen any sort of "chain" used in a vinyl window. Other things yes, chain no.

I have a Contractor here remodeling my bathroom & while I never take advantage of what they are here to do, I ask him what that thing what. He said it was a balance & they ARE on the bad window, they just werent in the right place. I gave him a screwdriver & he fixed it 1-2-3. You know, everytime I think I am learning some DIY stuff, I find that there is SOOO much more to learn. Thank you for your assistance. Jina
:)

Yep...probably some sort of constant force balance. Glad its all fixed up....hope you buy them a bucket of chicken or a 12pack for his help. Or a twenty!

You should ask if he knows any good window places to find out about the fogged unit.