Choosing Cat Flap Insulation
If you leave your cat's flap open, it may create a draft. This is a common problem that cat owners face.
A draught excluder can help cut down the amount of cold air that is able to enter the home. However the cat flap offers more protection from the elements. Tomsgates offers a selection of cat flaps that are insulated and dog doors that are suitable for any kind of installation including wall installations.
The Material
One of the most important features of a cat door is its insulation. Insulation keeps cold air out and warm inside. There are many ways in which insulation can be created however the most important thing is the material that the flap is constructed from.
A single flap will not accomplish much in terms of insulation, but doors that come with triple or double flaps are far more insulated and stop cold air from getting into the house. You can also purchase draught restrictors that are fitted around the frame of the cat flap and help to reduce drafts. Be aware that these products will not stop cold air from entering your home, if you're trying to open the door for your cat.
Fill in the area left by your cat's flap with insulation, such as styrofoam. This will prevent cold air from entering into your home and will reduce the sound generated by your cat when they use their pet door. If you decide to do this, you should measure the hole your cat flap has created and choose an appropriate filler to match the fabric.
A great option for a cat flap that offers high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door by Freedom Pet Pass. This door features a thick and insulated seal, which reduces the loss of heat. It also has a durable magnetic seal to prevent cold air and wind from entering through the flap. Its cellular PVC frame is 3,000 times more insulating than the aluminum material that is used in the frames of lesser pet doors.
Wind Resistance
When a cat door is opened it creates a draft which means cold air can enter your home even though the flap is closed. Some manufacturers add draught-excluders to the flap opening that are brushes. However, if you are looking for a truly cold weather cat flap insulation, you will need to ensure that your door is sealed tightly when shut and that there aren't gaps where cold air can get in.
A strong magnetic seal is one way to make sure your cat's flap remain shut against the wind, but you should also take a look at the overall design and the materials used in the construction of a pet door. The best doors for pets in colder weather will be constructed of materials that are insulating. They will have thick PVC flaps, and frames that can withstand temperatures as low as 40 degrees Celsius. This will stop cold air from entering and keep warm air out, which can be a big energy saver.
You should also look for double-flap designs that are able to stand up to heat and cold, as well as high winds. These models are more expensive than single-flap ones, but they can help you save money on energy costs over time. This is particularly important when you live in an area that gets harsh winters or summers.
Read reviews before purchasing a cat flap that is cold-weather to determine which models have the best reviews and provide the best protection from the elements. The Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff-Weather Pet Door is a favorite because it provides excellent insulation and a sturdy flap, as well as an easy-to-install and tamper-proof design. Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door is a different option. Many customers have praised its ability to resist the elements of wind and cold without compromising the freedom of their cats.
The Magnetic Seal
In cold conditions, a cat flap that seals tightly is the key to reducing energy loss. This is why the best cat flap insulation comes with the use of a magnetic closure. These magnets keep the door closed even when your pet is in the room. Some models also have an outer panel that can be used to lock or unlock your pet's door when required.
A strong magnetic seal is vital in colder weather, but a good cat flap should also be able to stand up to winds. It is not necessary for your cat flap to be open by the wind in winter. This will allow cold air into your house and increase your heating bill. A quality cold-weather model will come with magnetic seals that can withstand winds of up to 50 miles per hour. A lot of these models also have insulation to help prevent loss of heat.
One of the most effective cold-weather cat flaps on the market is the Security Boss insulated pet door. It is insulated in the door and frame to ensure maximum insulation. It is equipped with the Snap On closing panel that can be inserted into the door when weather is bad in order to keep your pet safe.
The RANGER pet gate made by Freedom Pet Pass is another great option. The door is insulated with thick, cellular PVC to limit heat loss and keep your home warm. In addition, the frame is welded using technology from the automotive industry to ensure it is strong and durable in cold weather.
The Baboni pet door is an excellent choice for colder weather. It is made from aerospace quality aluminum alloy and metal steel, and welded together using laser welding technology that is used in the automotive industry. Its design makes it impervious to harsh weather conditions and can be installed in many wall materials. The double flaps provide insulation and energy efficiency. A tunnel kit can be incorporated into the door to give it extra protection in extreme weather.
The Design
If you want to keep your home warm and prevent drafts from entering, look for a cat-friendly door with insulation features. This could include dual flaps, or a frame that is thermally efficient made from a material like aluminum, which is less conductive to heat than PVC or plastic. Certain models come with brushes that reduce the loss of energy and stop drafts. Look for the words "insulation," "weatherproof seals," or "energy efficiency" in the description of the product to find a door that has these features.
Modern cat doors, which are specifically designed to be used in cold climates, come with various insulation options. The Endura Flap Pet Door, for instance, comes with a dual-flap system as well as an insulated framework that is able to withstand harsh weather conditions and prevent drafts. It is also environmentally friendly, as it is made of a non-toxic polyolefin substance that is safe for both your pets and planet.
Even if you've chosen an insulated cat flap you might still notice that cold air is able to pass through the gap between the frame of your door and your existing window or wall. The flap creates a draft when it is opened. Some manufacturers attempt to reduce this by providing what is known as a draught excluder which is placed around the flap's outside, but it is important to remember that your cat will need to be able to open and shut the door easily to allow them to go in and out as needed.
Installing a new pet door, such as Freedom Pet Pass' RANGER one, which is specifically designed for cold weather, is a more effective solution. cat flap step feature an insulated, thicker door that cuts down on conductive heating. It also has the ability to endure extreme temperatures, such as temperatures of -40 degrees Celsius. This level of protection is comparable to double-paned windows but for a fraction of their price.