Choosing Cat Flap Insulation
A cat flap can create a draught if left open. This is a problem many cat owners experience.
A draught excluder can help minimise cold air entering the home, however an animal flap that is insulated will offer greater protection against the elements. Tomsgates has a range of insulated cat flaps and dog doors that can be used for any installation including wall installations.
The Material
One of the most important features of the cat door is its insulation. Insulation keeps cold air out and warm inside. Insulation can be accomplished in various ways but the material that the flap is constructed is the most crucial.
Doors with double or triple flaps provide better insulation and stop cold air from getting into your home. You can also purchase draft excluders that fit around the frame of the cat flap and reduce drafts. However, you need to keep in mind that these will not stop the cold air from entering if your cat is attempting to use their door at the same simultaneously.
Fill in the gap left by your cat flap using insulation such as styrofoam. This will prevent cold air from entering into your home, and also reduce the sound generated by your cat using their pet door. If you decide to do this, you must measure the hole your cat flap made and select an appropriate filler to match the surrounding fabric.
An excellent choice for a cat flap that has high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door by Freedom Pet Pass. The door is constructed with an extremely thick, insulated flap that is designed to limit conductive heat loss. It also has a magnetic seal that prevents cold air or wind from entering through the flap. Its cellular PVC frames are 3,000 times more insulating that the aluminum used in the frames of pet doors that are inferior.
Wind Resistance
When a door for cats is opened it creates a draft, which means that cold air can sneak into your home even when the flap is closed. Some manufacturers add draught-excluders to the flap opening that are brushes. If you are planning to make use of a cat flap in cold weather, you should ensure that your door is sealed tightly when closed, and that there aren't any gaps through which let cold air in.
A solid magnetic seal is a way to help your cat flap keep its seal against the wind, but you should also take a look at the overall design and the materials that are used in a pet door. The best doors for cold weather will be made from materials that are insulating, such as thick PVC flaps as well as a plastic frame that can resist temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius. This will stop cold air from entering and keeps warm air out, which can be an energy-efficient option.
It is also recommended to look for double-flap models that can be able to withstand heat and cold, as well as high winds. They will cost more than single-flap designs, but they are a good investment that will allow you to save on energy costs in the long in the long run. This is important if you reside in an area that has severe winters and harsh summers.
Read reviews before purchasing a cold-weather cat flap to determine which models have the best reviews and provide the most protection from the elements. Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff Weather Pet Door is popular because it comes with a sturdy flap and an easy-to install and tamper-proof design. Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door, another excellent choice. Many customers praise its ability to withstand cold and wind without compromising the freedom of their cats.
The Magnetic Seal
In cold weather, the ability to seal a cat flap tightly is the key to decreasing energy loss. This is why the most effective cat flap insulation comes with an magnetic closure. The magnets keep the door closed even when your pet is in it. In addition, some models come with an external closing panel that you can use to lock your pet inside or out, if needed.
A high-quality cat flap must be able to resist winds and also have a solid magnetic seal. You don't want your cat's door to be blown open by the winds in winter, since this will allow cold air into your home, which will increase your heating costs. A good cold-weather model has magnetic seals that is able to withstand winds that exceed 50 miles an hour. A lot of these models also have insulation to prevent heat loss.
The Security Boss pet door is one of the top cat flaps for colder weather available. It is insulated in the door and frame to ensure maximum insulation. It also has an opening panel that snaps on so you can slide into when the weather isn't great to keep your pets inside.
Another great option is the RANGER pet door from Freedom Pet Pass. The door is insulated with thick celluloid PVC to minimize the loss of heat through conduction, and keep your house warm. The frame is welded with the help of technology from the automotive industry to ensure it is strong and durable for harsh winter conditions.
The Baboni pet door is another ideal option for cold weather. It is made of aerospace-quality aluminum alloy and metal and is welded using laser welding technology that is used in the automobile industry. Its design makes it immune to extreme weather conditions and can be installed in various wall materials. Its double flaps create an air pocket which provides insulation and energy efficiency and it also comes with tunnel kits that you can add to the door for extra protection in extreme weather.
The Design
When you are choosing a cat door that can keep your home warm and free of drafts, you should look for one with insulation features. cat flap in upvc door panel could be a dual-flap design or a frame constructed of aluminum which has lower thermal conduction than PVC or Plastic. Some models have brushes that help to reduce energy loss and prevent drafts. Look for the words "insulation," "weatherproof seals," or "energy efficiency" in the description of the item to find a door equipped with these features.
Many modern cat doors, specifically designed to be used in cold climates, have various insulation options. The Endura Flap pet door, for example, has a dual flap system as well as an insulated frame that is able to withstand the harshest weather conditions, helping to prevent drafts and heat loss. It is also eco-friendly because it is made of a non-toxic polyolefin that is safe for your pet and the planet.
Even if you have chosen an insulated cat flap, you may still find that cold air can be able to pass through the gap between the frame of your door and your wall or window. The flap can create draft when it is opened. Some manufacturers attempt to reduce this by putting a draught-exclusion device on the outside of the flap. However, it is important to keep in mind that your cat must be able open and close the doors quickly to allow them to move in and out as needed.
A more effective solution is to put in a new door specifically designed for colder conditions, such as the RANGER pet door made by Freedom Pet Pass. The RANGER pet doors feature a thicker, insulated door that cuts down on the conductive heating. It can also be able to withstand extreme temperatures, like temperatures of -40 degrees Celsius. This degree of protection can be comparable to double-pane windows but at only a fraction of the cost.