Choosing Cat Flap Insulation
A cat flap can create a draught if it's left open. This is a common issue experienced by cat owners.
A draught-exclusion device can help to reduce cold air coming into the home, however the cat flap that is insulated will offer greater protection against the elements. Tomsgates offers a selection of insulated cat flaps and dog doors suitable for any kind of installation, including wall installations.
The Material
Insulation is one of the most important characteristics of the cat-door. Insulation is what keeps cold air out and warm in. Insulation can be achieved in a variety of ways however the material from which the flap is made is the most important.
A single flap will not make much difference in insulating your home However, doors with triple or dual flaps are far more insulated and will stop cold air entering the home. You can also buy draught restrictors that are fitted around the frame of the cat flap and reduce drafts. You should be aware that these products will not stop cold air from entering your home if you are trying to open the door for your cat.
Another option is to cover the space left by your cat flap with some form of insulation, such as styrofoam. This will stop cold air from entering your home and reduce the noise produced by your cat's pet door. If you do this, you should determine the size of the hole that your cat's flap has created and choose a filler that matches the fabric.
An excellent choice for an animal flap that provides high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door from Freedom Pet Pass. The door features a thick, insulated flap that is designed to minimize the loss of heat that is conductive. It also has magnetic seals that block cold air or wind from entering through the flap. Its celluloid PVC frame is 3,000 times more in insulating properties than the aluminum used in the frames of lesser pet doors.
Wind Resistance
If a cat flap is closed, cold air may still get into your home even though the flap is open. Some manufacturers try to minimize this issue by adding what are known as draught excluders that are basically brushes that can be inserted around the flap opening. If you want to use a cat flap to combat cold weather, you should ensure that your door is sealed tightly when closed and that there aren't any gaps where allow cold air to enter.
A strong magnetic seal is one method to ensure that your cat's flap remain shut against wind, however you must also consider the overall design and the materials that are used in the construction of a pet door. The best doors for cold weather are made of materials that are insulating. This includes thick PVC flaps as well as a plastic frame that is able to stand up to temperatures of as low as -40° Celsius. This keeps warm air out and prevent cold air from getting in.
Choose a model with double-flaps, which can be able to withstand cold and heat, as well high winds. These will be more expensive than single-flap designs, but they are a good investment that will allow you to reduce your energy bills in the long run. This is particularly true for those who reside in a region that experiences extreme summers or winters.
Read reviews before purchasing a cat flap for cold weather to determine which models have the best reviews and provide the most protection from the elements. The Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff-Weather Pet Door is a favorite because it offers great insulation and a sturdy flap, as well as an easy-to-install and tamper-proof design. The Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door is a different option, with many customers praise its ability to withstand extreme cold and wind, while still allowing their cats to enter and exit easily.
The Magnetic Seal
When it comes to cold temperatures, an enclosed cat flap that seals tightly is the key to decreasing energy loss. This is why the best cat flap insulation is designed with an magnetic closure. cat flap installers near me will keep the door closed, even when your pet is inside the room. Some models come with an outer closing panel that you can use to lock your pet in or out if necessary.
A high-quality cat flap must be able to withstand winds and also have a solid magnetic seal. You don't want your cat flap to be blown wide open by the wind during winter. This can let cold air in your home and increase your heating bill. cat flap installers near me for cold weather will have an electronic seal that can withstand winds of up to 50 miles per hour. A lot models also come with insulation to prevent loss of heat.
One of the most effective cold-weather cat flaps available on the market is the Security Boss insulated pet door. The model is insulated inside both the door as well as the frame to give the best amount of insulation. It includes an Snap On closing panel which can be inserted into the door when weather is not ideal to keep your pet safe.
The RANGER pet gate from Freedom Pet Pass is another excellent alternative. This door is insulated using thick celluloid PVC to help reduce heat loss through conduction and keep your house warm. The frame is also welded using automotive technology to make it strong and durable for cold weather conditions.
The Baboni pet doors are a ideal option for those who live in colder weather. It is made of aerospace-quality aluminum alloy and metal, and is welded with laser welding technology, which is utilized in the automotive industry. Its design is able to withstand harsh weather conditions and can be installed on a variety of wall materials. The double flaps provide insulation and energy efficiency. A tunnel kit can be added to the door for additional protection during extreme weather.
The Design
If you're looking to keep your home warm and keep out drafts, look for a cat door that has insulation features. This could be dual flaps, or a thermally efficient frame made from a material like aluminum, which is less thermally conductive than PVC or plastic. Some models also come with brushes that prevent drafts and aid in reducing the loss of energy. You can find doors with these features by searching for words such as "insulation," weatherproof seals," and "energy efficiency" in the description of the item.
Many of the modern cat doors designed specifically for use in cold climates have a range of insulation features. The Endura Flap pet door, for example, has a dual flap system as well as an enclosed frame that is designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions, helping stop drafts and loss of heat. It is also eco-friendly as it is made of a non-toxic polyolefin substance that is safe for both your pet and the planet.
Even if you've chosen an insulated cat flap you might find that cold air is able to be able to pass through the gap between the door frame and your existing window or wall. The flap creates a draft when it is opened. Some manufacturers attempt to limit this by offering what's called a draught excluder that is placed around the flap's outside however it is important to remember that your cat needs to be capable of opening and closing the door easily so that they can go in and out as needed.
An alternative that is more efficient is to put in a new door specifically made for cold conditions, such as the RANGER pet door by Freedom Pet Pass. The RANGER pet door comes with a thicker, insulated flap that reduces conductive heating by reducing the amount of energy lost through the material. It is also able to stand up to extreme cold, and protect against temperatures of -40 ° Celsius and lower. This degree of protection is comparable to double-paned windows, but for a fraction of their cost.