Available as chain drives, folding arm, spindle or linear drives – they provide reliable control of façade vents, rooflights, and hard-to-reach openings.
Modern electric drives can be linked to switches, sensors, or Building Management Systems to optimise indoor air quality and temperature. Options include 24V and mains-powered solutions.
*Window actuators used for smoke ventilation are normally 24V and must be tested as part of the final AOV assembly and incorporated into the product under an approved factory production control process.
When used for comfort ventilation they may be 24V or mains powered.
Whether you need an automatic window opener for everyday use or window actuators that can be certified as part of a smoke control solution, Teal Products offers a range of solutions designed for easy integration and reliable performance in residential, education and commercial settings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is an electric window actuator?
Window Actuators are motorised devices that open and close windows either via a manual switch input or automatically using sensors – normally for room temperature, indoor air quality (often CO2), or outside weather. They can improve ventilation control, comfort, air quality and provide easy operation for hard-to-reach windows.
What is a window chain actuator and how does it work?
A window chain actuator uses a cleverly designed chain that allows it to remain rigid as it extends to push a window open, while allowing it to retract into a compact body as it pulls the window closed. It offers robust and remote control of façade windows and rooflights.
What’s the difference between a chain actuator and a linear window actuator?
A chain actuator uses a chain that’s able to retract into a compact housing sitting adjacent and neatly to the window frame, while a linear actuator uses a rigid spindle or rod that must project into the space next to the window. Linear actuators historically provided higher load capabilities for large rooflights, but chain drives are now catching up through improved design and manufacturing technology.
What is a rooflight actuator?
A rooflight actuator automates the opening of skylights or roof windows for ventilation, smoke control, or access. Options include chain drives or spindle actuators. As rooflights tend to be larger than facade windows, and are normally at an angled pitch, the load on rooflight actuators tends to be much higher – requiring them to have thicker chains, more powerful motors and higher load capabilities.
What is a 24V window chain actuator used for?
24V actuators can be used for comfort or smoke ventilation (when incorporated as part of a tested and certified AOV). They are often preferred over mains actuators in smoke vent applications because batteries can be used to power them from the smoke ventilation system in the event of mains power failure – providing safe and reliable emergency operation.
What’s the difference between electric window automatic openers and manual window operators?
Electric actuators open windows automatically via switches or sensors, while manual window operators use handles or winding gear that the user must wind or push manually. Electric systems provide greater convenience and control, are often less imposing aesthetically, are able to control more windows in a single group and often require less maintenance.
How does an electric chain actuator for window automation operate?
An electric chain actuator extends or retracts a motor-driven chain to move the vent. It can be activated and controlled by switches, sensors, or automation systems like the BMS.
Can all actuator windows be connected to a Building Management System (BMS)?
Yes, most electric window actuators can be integrated with BMS networks for automated ventilation, temperature and air quality control – but the choice of actuator, voltage, control panels and advanced functions like position and speed control can influence the components required and how easy they are to position correctly, reduce operational noise and minimise draughts.
What are the main benefits of using a chain actuator for window automation?
Actuators used for window automation make it possible to operate hard to reach windows for ventilation, and add the possibility of automation for automatically closed windows in bad weather, automatically opening vents to improve room conditions when they become too warm or stuffy.
How do I choose the right chain actuator size for my windows?
The right size depends on the window size, arrangement and how far it needs to open. Our team can help go through the process of selecting the right actuator and we typically need to know the window size, opening orientation, glass thickness, frame material, hinge arrangement and how far you need it to open.
How do I choose the right voltage window actuators for my windows?
The right actuator voltage normally depends on how many windows you want to automate and whether you want simple operation from a switch, or to incorporate sensors. 230v window actuators can be switched easily with no additional controls required, whereas 24v actuators require a controller making them more flexible for incorporating sensors, timers and other inputs – as well as typically being easier to integrate for larger groups of automated windows.
What is the typical installation process for an electric actuator on a window?
Once the correct actuator and brackets have been selected, it is important to follow the installation guide according to the specific equipment and application; Normally this involves locating the chain fixing in an appropriate position on the centre of the sash (for a single actuator) where it can be fixed using correct fixings without risk to the window, and while allowing the main actuator brackets to be fit in a good position on the frame. Cabling is then normally clipped or fitted in surface trunking to conceal it.
How much power does a typical actuator require to operate?
The power consumption typically depends on type, load capabilities and voltage. They may be rated anything up to 5A power for large heavy windows, however they are normally rated at 24v and draw much smaller power levels on mains power. Actuators typically use no power when dormant, although 24v controllers may use a very small amount of standby current while monitoring sensors.
What is a Window Master actuator? Why choose WindowMaster?
WindowMaster offer high-quality automated window drives known for reliability, smart control, and strong performance in natural ventilation systems. In conjunction with MotorLink controllers, they can be more cost effectively integrated into BMS systems using network command protocols.
What are Mingardi actuators? Why choose Mingardi?
Mingardi actuators are Italian-designed window openers valued for durability, smooth operation, and wide compatibility with different window types.
What is a Topp ACK4? Why choose Topp?
The Topp ACK4 is a popular electric chain drive known for quiet operation, adjustable stroke lengths, and strong performance on façade windows and rooflights.
Are different brands of actuators interchangeable?
Sometimes, but not always. Compatibility depends on stroke length, force, voltage, fixing points, and certification requirements.
Which brands do Teal Products supply?
Teal products have partnership arrangements with many of the largest window automation equipment manufacturers and using their buying power can supply products at competitive prices from Topp, Window Master, Comunello, Aumueller, Mingardi and more.
Which drive is best for roof windows and skylights?
Roof windows often benefit from strong linear drives or longer-stroke chain actuators designed for higher loads associated with angled vent installations.
How do you choose between a folding arm and chain actuator?
Folding arm actuators are typically used on side hung windows and sometimes doors where you need to achieve near 90 degree opening.
Can chain drives be used for both smoke and natural ventilation?
Most window actuators are designed to be used for Natural Ventilation. Whether they can be used for Smoke Ventilation depends if they have the necessary build quality, design requirements and testing to be used reliably in life critical applications that can be exposed to high temperatures.
Where motorised drives are proposed as part of an Automated Opening Vent (AOV) for smoke – they should have been factory tested as part of the full vent assembly and manufactured under strict quality control to enable them to have their performance certified.
What factors determine the right stroke length?
Stroke length depends on the window’s required opening distance, free area or ventilation needs, along with hinge type and ability to extend to the required opening.
How do I find the right actuator for my window?
The best actuator for your application depends on the size, weight, orientation and opening requirement of your window (dictating the spec and load capabilities of the actuator). Sometimes more than one drive may be required for wider windows to achieve a good seal in the closed position.
Are 24V window actuators required for smoke ventilation systems?
Yes, most smoke ventilation systems utilise 24V motors as part of the AOVs (Automated Opening Vents) because they are flexible for use with smoke ventilation control panels using low voltage battery backup systems.
Do electric window actuators meet UK Building Regulation Part F and Part B?
When correctly selected and installed they can help support Part F ventilation requirements and Part B smoke control standards (when properly certified as part of the AOV.
How much force can a chain actuator apply to a window?
Most chain actuators offer 150–300N of opening force, with heavy-duty models able to reach 400–500N (the equivalent of up to 50Kg) depending on the application and required window opening distance.
What maintenance is required for window actuators?
Regular checks include inspecting fixings, testing operation, and sometimes basic cleaning and lubricating moving parts.
Are there kits available for installing electric window actuators?
Actuators often come as a kit of actuator and brackets, although sometimes the brackets need selecting according to the application and window profile. Teal Products can help advise on best actuator, brackets and any other ancillaries required like 24v power supplies, control panels, switches or other items to provide a full kit of parts.
What brackets do I need for my window?
The choice of brackets depends on the arrangement, mounting position on the vent, and whether the drive needs to be able to rotate as the vent opens and closes. Our experts can help provide guidance on bracket choice and mounting arrangement.
Where can I buy window actuators in the UK?
Teal Products holds extensive stocks from a range of manufacturers in their Gloucestershire warehouse, available as fast as next day delivery and their experts offer guidance on product selection and installation according to the type of window.
