My HFGH vents are so tight I have to use force to open them. I don't think a auto opener will work on mine. They do work on the Rion which opens and closes easily. I was wondering about windstorms myself. If you're going to lock the vents, then I'd remove the auto-opener.

I have a HF automatic opener on each of my vents. If I'm not mistaken, they are rated to 8lbs (perhaps 12lbs.). Your vent might be tight, but 8lbs is a lot of force.

As far as closing the vent when temps rise, I don't think the HF model is smart enough for that, i.e., warm open, cool closed. If it's stormy and warm, I think you're looking at open vents. Of course, you could always disconnect it and achieve closure.

Cheers.

DG

I have both the HF vent opener, and an Optivent (I think I got it from Charley's). I prefer the Optivent b/c it's super easy to remove the hydraulic (or whatever you call it) lift mechanism so it'll stay closed. It just unscrews.

Haven't even tried the HF yet, but I'm inclined to think it'll be a bigger pain to try to set it so it stays closed (just based on what a pain it was to put together!!!).

-Nancy
(Who learned, the hard way, that you have to assemble BOTH of these beasts when it's COLD outside! Don't even attempt it when it's 80*!)

I received two of the HF openers for Christmas 2006. One died already. Been dead for months.

Thanks, but i'd still like to know if anyone uses a lock in conjunction with any brand auto window opener, or will locking it closed cause damage? I don't have a HF greenhouse, just the window opener. My windows swing freely, and weigh only a couple of pounds.

I don't intend to disconnect the opener every time a storm is predicted, but I will lock my windows rather than risk losing one.

If no one has tried this yet then I'll be the guinea pig and let you know what happens. BTW, both openers have been installed for a week and so far they are working great. Open at 70 degrees and close about the same.

Most automatic window openers have a cylinder of a paraffin type material inside. When the paraffin gets warm, it expands and pushes out the piston. If you lock the window, the paraffin will still expand, possible damaging the unit. I would not recommend locking the window without unhooking the cylinder. Some of the Univent openers have a quick release mechanism for just that purpose.