A question that the team at Window Control Systems are often asked is 'which is better for my premises, manual or electric?'.

The answer to this question is not always as straightforward as you would think, therefore we firstly need to look at the purpose of a window opening system and where this would be placed.

The term 'actuator' simply means ‘the component responsible for moving or controlling a mechanism or system’. Understanding whether there is a solution most suitable for your business is often the role of our engineers. However, to break down the terminology, we should firstly look at the two specific products and their differences.

Manual window control

A manual window opening system is very flexible and it can be placed on windows which are either at an inaccessible height, or a not so easy to reach position. Multiple vents can be operated from one single operator, therefore allowing you to improve the air flow to a room with one system. This system can often be found in office buildings, or schools where the windows are awkward to reach.


A manual window actuator can be fitted to most styles of windows, as well as rooflights. Our range of products includes Highline, Screwjack and Pole systems

Electric window control

Electric actuator systems are commonly used for natural ventilation and smoke ventilation. The systems can be operated remotely, or by rocker switch and key switch options which activate the signal to the motor and power the window opening mechanism. There are three main types of electrical actuator: linear, chain and folding arm window openers.

A linear actuator is most often found on heavy rooflights or large vents, as the system itself uses enough force to lift and open the vent. A chain actuator is available as either a single or dual chain system. A chain actuator would typically be placed on top, bottom and centre swivel opening windows. The dual chain mechanism would be found on wider, or heavier windows. If your commercial premises have side hung windows, you may find that a folding arm window opener is more suited to this type of window, due to the 90-degree angle on the system.

Typically, electrical window opening systems are utilised in areas where the windows are situated high up, or on difficult to reach windows. These could be added to simply ease the opening of a window, for example, inside a Care home. Other typical installations include school halls, gymnasiums, and warehouses.

If you require a quote or technical advice on actuator suitability contact our team who would be happy to help.