Choosing Cat Flap Insulation
A cat flap can create a draught if it's left open. This is a frequent issue experienced by cat owners.
A draught excluder can help reduce the amount of cold air that enters the home, however a cat flap that is insulated can provide more protection from the elements. Tomsgates has a range of cat flaps insulated and dog doors that can be used for any type of installation including wall installations.
The Material
One of the most important aspects of a cat door is its insulation. This is what will keep cold air out and warm air in. There are a variety of ways in which insulation can be achieved, but the most important is the material the flap is made from.
A single flap will not make much difference in insulation for your home But doors with triple or dual flaps are much more insulated and will stop cold air entering the home. You can also purchase draught-excluders to wrap around the frame and limit drafts. However, it is important to be aware that these won't stop cold air from entering when your cat is attempting to use their door at the same time.
Fill in the area left by your cat flap with insulation like styrofoam. This will stop cold air from entering your home, as well as decreasing the amount of noise that occurs when your cat uses their pet door. It is worth noting that if you decide to do this, it is crucial that you measure the hole your cat's flap has created and select a filler material that matches the material surrounding it.
through wall cat flap for a cat flap that has high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door by Freedom Pet Pass. The door features a thick, insulated flap that is designed to limit the loss of heat through conductive channels. It also has a strong magnetic seal that prevents cold air and wind from getting in through the flap. Its celluloid PVC frames are 3,000x more efficient at insulating than aluminum frames of the inferior pet doors.
Wind Resistance
When a door for cats is opened it creates a draft which means cold air can get into your home even when the flap is closed. Some manufacturers attempt to reduce the risk of this by incorporating what's known as draft excluders which are essentially brushes that are inserted around the flap opening. If you want to use a cat flap for cold weather, ensure that your door is sealed tightly when closed and that there aren't any gaps that allow cold air to enter.
A strong magnetic seal is one method to ensure that your cat's flap stay shut against the wind, but you should also look at the overall construction and materials that are used in the construction of a pet door. The best pet doors for colder weather will be constructed of materials that are insulate. They include thick PVC flaps, as well as frames that can withstand temperatures as low as 40 degrees Celsius. This will prevent cold air from leaking in and keeps warm air out, which is a big energy saver.
You should also look for double-flap models that can be able to withstand heat and cold and high winds. They'll cost more than single-flap models, but they're a wise investment that can help you save money on energy costs in the long run. This is especially important if you live in an area which experiences harsh winters or summers.
Read reviews before purchasing a cat flap for cold weather to determine which models have the highest reviews and provide the most 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 secure, tamper-proof design. The Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door is another great option, with many customers praise its ability to withstand extreme cold and wind while still offering the ability for their cats to go in and out freely.
The Magnetic Seal
In colder weather, a cat flap that seals tightly is the key to reducing energy loss. This is why the most effective cat flap insulation is designed with the use of a magnetic closure. The magnets will help keep the door closed even when your pet is inside. Some models also have an outer panel that can be used to lock or unlock your pet's door if required.
A great cat flap should be able to withstand winds and also have a solid magnetic seal. You don't want your cat flap to be open by the wind during winter. This can let cold air in to your home and raise your heating costs. A good cat flap for cold weather will be sealed with 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 stop heat loss through the door.
One of the best cold-weather cat flaps available on the market is the Security Boss insulated pet door. The model is insulated in the door and frame to provide the highest level of insulation. It also has an opening panel that snaps on so you can slide in when the weather is bad to keep your pets safe.
The RANGER pet gate made by Freedom Pet Pass is another fantastic alternative. The door is insulated with thick celluloid PVC in order to reduce the loss of heat through conduction and keep your home warm. In addition, the frame is welded together using technology from the automotive industry to make it tough and durable in cold weather.
The Baboni pet door is another excellent choice for cold weather. It is made of aerospace-quality aluminum alloy and metal, and is welded using laser welding technology used in the automobile industry. Its design is impervious to harsh weather, and it is able to be installed on different wall materials. Double flaps on the door provide insulation and energy efficiency. A tunnel kit can be fitted to the door for additional protection during extreme weather.
The Design
If you want to keep your home warm and prevent drafts from entering, consider a cat door that is insulated. It could be a dual-flap system or a frame constructed of aluminum, which is less thermally conduction than PVC or Plastic. Certain models also have brushes that prevent drafts and reduce energy loss. You can find doors with these features by looking for words like "insulation," weatherproof seals," and "energy efficiency" in the description of the item.
Many modern cat doors, which are specifically designed for use in cold climates, are equipped with various insulation options. The Endura Flap pet door, for instance, comes with a dual flap system and an enclosed frame that is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, helping to stop drafts and loss of heat. It is also eco-friendly and is made of a non-toxic polyolefin polymer that is safe for your pets and the planet.
Even the flap is well-insulated, you may find that cold air can still pass through the gap created between the door frame or window and the existing wall. The flap creates draft when it is opened. Some manufacturers attempt to minimize the draught by putting a draught excluder around the outside of a flap. However it is essential to keep in mind that your cat should be able open and close the doors without difficulty so that they can enter and exit as needed.
Installing a new pet door like Freedom Pet Pass' RANGER one, which is specifically designed for cold weather is an effective option. The RANGER pet doors have a thicker, insulated door that blocks the conductive heating. It is also able to endure extreme cold, securing against temperatures of -40 degrees Celsius and lower. This level of protection is similar to double-paned windows but for a fraction of their cost.