New Homeowner Alert-Why The Orange Tabs in My Windows?

As I settle into my new home, there are a ton of things that I am learning. First, it was the direction of the fans and how I could save on my heat bills, and now I discovered something interesting on all of my windows. I was noticing these little orange tabs that stopped me from raising my windows more than a couple of inches.

I couldn't figure out why there would be a "stopper" on my windows. I mean if I want to open up my windows and get fresh air, why would anything stop me from doing that? Turns out it is a safety feature that has been added to all new windows. Since our house is new construction, every window has this special tab. Mine happens to be orange.

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The correct term for these window stoppers is window sash vent stops or vent locks. These orange tabs allow me to open the windows to a certain point so that I can let fresh air in. It also acts as a safety feature. They help prevent the windows from opening completely. The vent lock also only opens a couple of inches so you can still get fresh air but have the peace of mind that a burglar won't be able to climb in through your screen. So it acts as a window safety mechanism.

I love my new house and I am learning some really cool tricks, safety features, and fun money saving ideas each week. When I discover more, I will pass them along. Some of these tricks you may already know. Maybe I will come across one that you haven't known before and I will help you out too.