{"id":16046,"date":"2026-10-13T11:02:56","date_gmt":"2026-10-13T10:02:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/?page_id=16046"},"modified":"2026-10-28T16:12:11","modified_gmt":"2026-10-28T15:12:11","slug":"faq","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/faq\/","title":{"rendered":"Frequently asked questions (FAQ)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Answers to the most common questions about ordering, delivery and choosing window actuators. Your question isn\u2019t listed? Write to us in the live chat or call: +49 40 50694631.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ordering, delivery and initial selection<\/h2>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Do you also sell to private customers?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Yes. In addition to trade businesses \u2013 for example window manufacturers, metalworkers, electrical and smoke-ventilation contractors, planners and project customers \u2013 private customers can also order directly in the shop. All prices in the shop are net prices plus statutory VAT.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How fast do you deliver?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">We ship stock items from Hamburg within 24 hours. Versions not in stock have a delivery time of approx. 3\u20134 weeks. The exact delivery time is shown for each version on the product page. In the shop you can use \u201cShow stock items only\u201d to filter for actuators available immediately.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How much does shipping cost?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Within Germany \u20ac8.39 net per order \u2013 regardless of the number of items. If you only order accessories (switches, boxes, sensors), shipping costs \u20ac3.50 net. Abroad from \u20ac12 net, depending on the country.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Which countries do you deliver to?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Via the shop we deliver to Germany and almost all EU countries, for example Austria, France, the Netherlands and Poland. We deliver to Switzerland via MeinEinkauf.ch, details under <a href=\"\/en\/shipping-methods\/\">Shipping methods<\/a>. For other countries, such as the UK, write to info@ventsystems.de \u2013 we will send you a quote.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How quickly do you answer technical questions?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Usually on the same working day. The fastest way is by phone on +49 40 50694631 (Mon\u2013Fri 8 am\u20135 pm) or via WhatsApp on +49 176 57801935.<\/p><\/details>\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Which payment methods are available?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Bank transfer (with 1% discount), PayPal, credit card, Apple Pay and Google Pay. Business customers can get purchase on invoice, dealer and project prices and volume discounts via a direct quote \u2013 <a href=\"\/en\/commercial-customers\/\">Request dealer terms<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Is mounting material included?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">A standard bracket set is included in the price of VS-KA, VS-LA and VS-ZA. Exactly what is included is listed on each product page under \u201cScope of delivery\u201d.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>24 V or 230 V \u2013 what do I need?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">24 V actuators are connected to a controller or SHEV control panel, 230 V actuators directly to mains voltage, mostly for pure ventilation. Explained in detail in the guide <a href=\"\/en\/window-actuator-24v-or-230v\/\">Window actuator 24 V or 230 V<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Which stroke length (chain length) do I need?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">As a guide for bottom-hung sashes: stroke = 2 \u00d7 sash height \u00d7 sin(opening angle \u00f7 2), e.g. 600 mm sash height and 30\u00b0 \u2248 311 mm. Our <a href=\"\/en\/calculate-chain-length-for-window-drive\/\">Stroke calculator<\/a> calculates this for you and shows the matching actuators right away.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Chain, linear or rack-and-pinion actuator \u2013 what\u2019s the difference?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Chain actuators are compact and the standard solution for tilt, top-hung and roof windows. Linear or spindle actuators offer high forces for roof windows and dome rooflights; rack-and-pinion actuators offer long strokes and high forces for heavy sashes. More in our guide <a href=\"\/en\/chain-drive-linear-drive-or-rack-and-pinion-drive-which-window-drive-is-suitable-for-which-application\/\">Chain drive, linear drive or rack and pinion drive?<\/a><\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>For wide or heavy sashes \u2013 is one actuator enough?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">For wide sashes there is the <a href=\"\/en\/product\/vs-dka-800\/\">VS-DKA 800 double-chain drive<\/a> with two chains. If several actuators are to operate one sash, please agree the sizing with us \u2013 we\u2019re happy to advise.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Can I replace an old actuator (e.g. GEZE, D+H, Aum\u00fcller)?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">In many cases, yes. Enter the manufacturer and type from the rating plate in our <a href=\"\/en\/replacing-window-drives\/\">replacement finder<\/a> . For approved natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators (NSHEV), replacing the actuator may void the approval \u2013 please check with the window manufacturer or an expert beforehand.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>May I use the actuators in a SHEV system?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Whether an actuator may be used in a SHEV system depends on the approval and design of the system (e.g. opening time, SHEV control panel). Please agree its use with the installer or an expert. We\u2019ll support you in the selection.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Can I open a basement window with a motor, for example for pets?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Technically yes, with a compact chain actuator and a control unit with push button or timer. But consider the risk of trapping: a closing sash can trap an animal. Therefore do not let the window close automatically without supervision.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>May I retrofit an actuator in a condominium owners\u2019 association?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">In owners\u2019 associations, windows are often common property. An actuator is then a structural change, which usually requires a resolution of the association. Clarify this beforehand with your property management. This is not legal advice.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Is an electric window above the shower or in the bathroom suitable?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Yes, if the actuator\u2019s protection rating suits the installation location and the electrical installation complies with the rules for bathrooms. The actuator and cables should be outside the splash zone where possible. Planning is carried out by a qualified electrician.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Can I install the actuator myself or do I need an electrician?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Handy people can carry out the mechanical installation on the window themselves using our installation instructions. The electrical connection, especially to 230 V, must be made by a qualified electrician.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Do you also supply the SHEV control panel?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">No. Vent Systems supplies actuators and ventilation controls, but no SHEV control panels. We coordinate which actuator suits your SHEV control panel on a project basis with you or your SHEV specialist company.<\/p><\/details>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Technical questions on selection, technology and smoke vents<\/h2>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How much thrust does my window need?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">It depends mainly on the sash weight and the mounting position: roof windows and skylights need considerably more force than vertical tilt windows, plus a reserve for wind, snow and seal pressure. How to estimate the force is shown in the guide <a href=\"\/en\/calculate-the-thrust-of-window-drives\/\">Calculate the thrust<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Which actuator is suitable for a tilt window?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">For most tilt windows a chain actuator fits, mounted at the top of the frame and tilting the sash inwards. The <a href=\"\/en\/product\/vs-ka\/\">VS-KA<\/a> is available with 250 to 1500 N in 24 V and 230 V.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Which actuator is suitable for heavy roof windows and skylights?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Linear and spindle actuators lift heavy sashes most reliably: the <a href=\"\/en\/product\/vs-la\/\">VS LA<\/a> is available with 600 to 5000 N. Among the chain actuators, the <a href=\"\/en\/product\/vs-ka-2500\/\">VS-KA 2500<\/a> offers 2500 N and protection class IP66.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How many actuators can one control unit supply?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">The <a href=\"\/en\/product\/vs-ls7\/\">VS-C24-7A controller<\/a> supplies up to 7 actuators at 24 V, depending on their current draw. What matters is that the total current draw matches the capacity of the control unit.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Can I operate windows, blinds and roller shutters with one control unit?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Yes, if all devices run on 24 V DC: they open and close by reversing polarity and can therefore be operated with the same control unit. More in the guide <a href=\"\/en\/window-blinds-roller-blinds-24v-control\/\">Windows, blinds and roller shutters controlled by 24 V<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>What does a rain sensor do?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">A rain sensor reports precipitation to the control unit, which then closes the windows automatically. The <a href=\"\/en\/product\/vs-ws\/\">Wind-rain-light sensor<\/a> also reacts to strong wind. More in the guide <a href=\"\/en\/rain-sensor-for-windows\/\">Rain sensor for windows<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>What to do if a window actuator no longer opens?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Check in this order: window and fittings, power supply, switch or radio, rain sensor, cable and finally the actuator itself. The step-by-step guide is in <a href=\"\/en\/window-actuator-not-opening\/\">Window actuator won\u2019t open<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>What is the difference between RWA and NRWG?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">RWA is the entire smoke and heat exhaust system with triggering, control panel, actuators and openings. An NRWG is the single opening element, i.e. a window or skylight including its actuator, tested as a unit to EN 12101-2. In detail in the guide <a href=\"\/en\/rwa-vs-nrwg-what-is-the-difference\/\">SHEV vs. NSHEV<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How often must a smoke ventilation system be serviced?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">As a rule once a year by a specialist company, as provided for by DIN 18232-2 and the manufacturer\u2019s instructions. Details in the guide <a href=\"\/en\/shev-maintenance-inspection\/\">SHEV maintenance<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Can the actuators be integrated into KNX or building management systems?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Our control units have no KNX interface. The smart actuators of the i-series such as the <a href=\"\/en\/product\/vs-ka-i\/\">VS-KA-i<\/a> have a Modbus interface, and 230 V actuators can be controlled via a KNX actuator module. More in the guide <a href=\"\/en\/integrating-window-drives-into-building-management-systems\/\">Integrating window drives into building management systems<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Which protection class does a window actuator need?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Actuators mounted indoors on sheltered windows usually manage with a low protection class such as IP32. For actuators exposed to moisture or weather, for example on skylights, a higher protection class such as IP65 makes sense. What the digits mean is explained in the glossary <a href=\"\/en\/dictionary\/ip-rating\/\">Protection class (IP)<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>Are tender texts available for planners?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Yes, there is a tender text for every actuator, as copy-ready text and PDF. You can find all texts under <a href=\"\/en\/tender-texts\/\">Tender texts<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quote and contact<\/h2>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How do I get a quote for a project?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Via the <a href=\"\/en\/project-enquiry\/\">Project enquiry<\/a> or with our <a href=\"\/en\/measurement-sheet\/\">measurement sheet<\/a> for several windows \u2013 fill it in online and send it directly. You can also create a quote as a PDF in the cart at any time. For many items at once there is the <a href=\"\/en\/quick-order\/\">quick order by item number<\/a>.<\/p><\/details>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details vs2-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border:1px solid #dbe5e9;border-radius:10px;padding:12px 16px;margin:0 0 10px\"><summary style=\"cursor:pointer\"><strong>How can I reach you?<\/strong><\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin:10px 0 2px\">Phone <a href=\"tel:+494050694631\">040 50694631<\/a> (Mon\u2013Fri 8 am\u20135 pm), email <a href=\"mailto:info@ventsystems.de\">info@ventsystems.de<\/a> or directly via the live chat at the bottom right of every page.<\/p><\/details>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Antworten auf die h\u00e4ufigsten Fragen zu Bestellung, Lieferung und Auswahl von Fensterantrieben. Ihre Frage ist nicht dabei? Schreiben Sie uns im Live-Chat oder rufen Sie an: 040 50694631. Bestellung, Lieferung und erste Auswahl Fachfragen zu Auswahl, Technik und RWA Angebot und Kontakt<\/p>","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-16046","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16046","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16046"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16046\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17184,"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16046\/revisions\/17184"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ventsystems.de\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16046"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}