A cat flap can create an air draught when left open. This is a common problem that cat owners face.
A draught-excluder can reduce the amount of cold air that enters the house. However, a cat flap can provide more protection from the elements. Tomsgates has a wide selection of insulated dog doors and cat flaps that work for all kinds of installations, including wall installations.
The Material
One of the most important aspects of a cat door is its insulation. This is what keeps cold air out and warm air in. There are many ways that insulation can be made however the most important is the material the flap is made from.
A single flap will not accomplish much in terms of insulation for your home However, doors with triple or double flaps are far more insulated and will prevent cold air from entering the house. cat flap install repairmywindowsanddoors can also buy draught-exclusion devices to wrap around the frame to reduce drafts. Be aware that these products will not prevent cold air from entering your home if you are trying to open the door for your cat.
Another alternative is to fill the space left by your cat's flap some kind of insulation, such as styrofoam. This will block cold air from getting into your home and reduce the sound generated by your cat using their pet door. It is important to note that if you choose to do this, it is essential that you measure the hole that your cat's flap has made and select a filler material that matches the material surrounding it.
A great option for a cat flap that has high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door made by Freedom Pet Pass. This door features a thick, insulated seal that reduces the loss of heat. It also has a durable magnetic seal to stop cold air and wind from entering through the flap. Its cellular PVC frame is 3,000X more insulating than the aluminum material that is used in the frames of lesser pet doors.
Wind Resistance
When a cat door is opened and closed, it creates draft, which means that cold air can sneak into your home, even if the flap is closed. Some manufacturers attempt to eliminate this problem by adding what's known as draft excluders which are essentially brushes that can be placed around the flap opening. If you plan to use a cat flap to combat cold weather, ensure that the door seals tightly when closed, and that there aren't any gaps where let cold air in.
You can make sure that your cat's shut the door against wind by using a strong magnetic seal. However, you must take into consideration the overall design of a pet-door and its materials. The best pet doors for colder weather will be constructed of materials that are insulating. These include thick PVC flaps and frames that can stand up to temperatures as low as 40 degrees Celsius. This will stop cold air from getting in and keeps warm air out, which can be a big energy saver.
Look for a design with double-flaps, which can withstand both heat and cold and high winds. They will cost more than single-flap models, however they're a wise investment that will allow you to save money on energy costs in the long run. This is particularly true when you reside in a region which experiences extreme summers or winters.
Check reviews before buying a cat flap that is cold-weather to see which models have the best reviews and provide the best protection from the elements. Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff Weather Pet Door is popular because it has a durable flap that is easy to install and has a and tamper-proof design. The Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door is a different option, with many customers praising its ability to resist extreme cold and wind, while still offering the ability for their cats to move in and out easily.
The Magnetic Seal
In winter, a tightly sealed cat flap is essential to minimize energy loss. The most effective cat flap insulation has the magnetic closure. The magnets will keep the door closed even when your pet is in the room. Some models have an outer closing panel that you can use to lock your pet inside or out if necessary.
A strong magnetic seal is crucial for colder weather however, a good cat flap should also be able to stand up to wind. You don't need your cat flap to be blown open by the wind in winter. This can let cold air in your home and increase your heating bills. A good cat flap for cold weather will feature an extremely strong magnetic seal that can withstand winds up to 50 miles per hour, and a majority of these models are also insulated to prevent heat loss through the door.
The Security Boss pet door is one of the best cat flaps for colder weather on the market. This model is insulated both in the door and frame to provide the highest level of insulation. It is equipped with a Snap On closing panel that you can slide into the door when weather is cold to keep your pet indoors.
Another great option is the RANGER pet door from Freedom Pet Pass. The door is insulated with thick, cellular PVC to minimize the loss of heat through conduction, and keep your house warm. The frame is also welded using automotive technology to make it durable and strong for harsh winter conditions.
The Baboni pet doors are a excellent option for cold weather. It is made of aerospace-quality aluminum alloy and metal and is welded with laser welding technology, which is utilized in the automobile industry. Its design makes it resistant to extreme weather conditions and can be used in many wall materials. The double flaps form an air pocket which provides insulation and energy efficiency, and it comes with an option to tunnel the door add to the door for more protection during extreme weather.
The Design
If you're looking to keep your home warm and keep out drafts, look for a cat-friendly door with insulation features. It could be a dual-flap system or a frame made from aluminum which has less thermal conduction than PVC or Plastic. Some models also feature brushes that prevent drafts and reduce the loss of energy. Look for the words "insulation," "weatherproof seals," or "energy efficiency" in the description of the product to find a door with these features.
Many modern cat doors, specifically designed for use in cold climates, have a variety of insulation features. The Endura Flap Pet Door, for instance, comes with a dual-flap system and an insulated framework that can stand up to harsh weather conditions and prevent drafts. It is also eco-friendly, as it is made of a non-toxic polyolefin substance that is safe for your pets and the environment.
Even if your cat flap is insulated however, cold air can still pass through the gap created between the door frame or window and the wall. The flap can create draft when it is opened. Some manufacturers attempt to reduce the draught by putting a draught excluder around the outside of a flap. However it is crucial to remember that your cat needs to be able open and close the doors quickly so that they can move in and out as needed.
Installing an entirely new pet door, like Freedom Pet Pass' RANGER, that is designed specifically for cold weather is a more effective solution. The RANGER pet door features an insulated flap that is thicker and more dense that reduces the conductive heat by reducing amount of energy that is lost through the material. It can also be able to withstand extreme temperatures, like 40 degrees Celsius. This level of protection is comparable to double-paned windows, however at a fraction of the cost.