Installing an extractor fan on a sealed double glazing unit.

Posted by: TomK on 15 November 2015

I suspect plenty of people here have done this. Is it possible to cut the hole and reseal it or does it require a new sealed unit? I suspect the latter but thought I'd ask anyway.

Cheers.

TomK.

Posted on: 15 November 2015 by hafler3o

Depends!

I'm assuming it's a window designed to be installed over a metre high. Door glass, patios, floor-level glass panels come in different toughnesses and treatments for safety/strength. So first determine what glass you have. If it's cuttable and not filled with inert gas it will be possible. Remember a failure to cut the glass right 1st time will usually be terminal!

Check the wall and window surrounds, sure you can't make a hole through brickwork/stonework?

Posted on: 16 November 2015 by Scooot

Hi,
DO NOT DO THIS.
A double glazed window is either filled with dehydrated air or a inert gas.
If the panel hasn't got the air or gas then you will get condensation between the 2panes of glass.
There are ways to fix panels that have failed but in this case with a extractor fitted I suspect it could not be done.

Scott

Posted on: 16 November 2015 by hafler3o

I'm assuming tom's window is well past it's best. One sealed unit I worked on had I had to drill a pilot hole and suck out an inch of water that had condensed over the years, otherwise I could have electrocuted myself! Alternatively there may be a mix of radon and chlorine gas currently fogging up his specs in the room, hence the need for something a little fresher

Posted on: 16 November 2015 by Mike-B

Best talk to a local glass specialist that does double glazing, they are the experts & will have a best way/practice solution.

If its toughened glass its not possible to cut & will contain a dry/inert gas of some sort & without that a double glass paned unsealed unit that is not sealed will become a condensation trap.

I would go for a hole thru the wall, my bet it will be a lot easier than bodging up a double glazed unit.