Choosing Cat Flap Insulation

A cat flap could cause an air draught when left open. This is a common problem encountered by cat owners.
A draught-exclusion device can help reduce the amount of cold air that enters the house, but a cat flap that is insulated will offer greater protection against the elements. Tomsgates offers a variety of insulated cat flaps and dog doors suitable for any installation, including wall installations.
The Material
One of the most important features of the cat door is its insulation. This is what keeps cold air out and warm air in. There are a number of ways that insulation can be created but the most important factor is the material that the flap is made from.
Doors with double or triple flaps will provide greater insulation and prevent cold air from entering your home. You can also buy draught excluders that fit around the frame of the cat flap and reduce drafts. But, you must be aware that they will not prevent cold air from entering when your cat is using their door at the same time.
Another option is to cover the space left behind by your cat flap with some kind of insulation, such as styrofoam. This will stop cold air from entering your home, and also reduce the sound generated by your cat using their pet door. It is worth noting that if you decide to do this, it is crucial to gauge the hole your cat's flap has created and choose a filler material that is in line with the material surrounding it.
An excellent choice for a cat flap that offers high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door from Freedom Pet Pass. This door comes with a strong and insulated seal, which reduces the loss of heat. It also has magnetic seals that block cold air or wind from entering through the flap. Its celluloid PVC frames are 3,000x more insulating that the aluminum used in the frames of inferior pet doors.
Wind Resistance
When a cat's door is opened and closed, it creates draft, which means that cold air can enter your home even though the flap is closed. Some manufacturers attempt to reduce this issue by adding what are known as draught excluders which are essentially brushes that are inserted around the flap opening. If you plan to make use of a cat flap in colder weather, ensure that your door is sealed tightly when closed and that there aren't any gaps where cold air can enter.
It is possible to help your cat's door stay closed against the wind by using a strong magnetic seal. But, you should be aware of the overall structure of a pet-door and its materials. The most effective doors for cold weather will be made from materials that are insulating. This includes thick PVC flaps as well as a plastic frame that can resist temperatures that are as low as -40 degrees Celsius. This will keep warm air out and stop cold air from getting inside.
Choose a model with double-flaps that are able to be able to withstand cold and heat, as well high winds. These will be more expensive than single-flap models, however they are a great investment that will allow you to save on energy costs in the long in the long run. This is particularly important for those who reside in a region that gets harsh winters or summers.
Read reviews before purchasing a cat flap that is cold-weather to determine which models have the highest reviews and provide the best protection from the elements. The Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff-Weather Cat Door is a popular choice because it offers great insulation and a sturdy flap, in addition to an easy-to-install, tamper-proof design. The Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door is a different option, with many customers commenting on its ability to withstand extreme wind and cold while still offering the ability for their cats to enter and exit without hassle.
The Magnetic Seal
In winter, a tightly shut cat flap is vital to reduce energy loss. This is why the most effective cat flap insulation comes with a magnetic closure. The magnets keep the door shut, even when your pet is in the door. Additionally, certain models come with an external closing panel that you can use to lock your pet in or out, if needed.
A high-quality cat flap must be able resist winds and also have a solid magnetic seal. You don't want your cat flap to be blown open by the winds in winter. This can let cold air in to your home and increase your heating bills. A good cat flap for cold weather will feature a strong magnetic seal that can withstand winds up to 50 miles per hour, and many of these models are also insulated to prevent heat loss through the door.
One of the most effective cat flaps for cold weather on the market is the Security Boss insulated pet door. This model is insulated both in the frame and the door to provide the highest level of insulation. cat flap installer comes with a Snap On closing panel which you can put into the door when the weather is not ideal to keep your pet indoors.
Another great option is the RANGER pet door from Freedom Pet Pass. The door is insulated with thick celluloid PVC to help reduce the loss of heat through conduction, and keep your house warm. The frame is also welded using technology used in automotive manufacturing to ensure it is durable and sturdy for harsh winter conditions.
The Baboni pet door is another great option for those who live in cold weather. It is constructed of aluminum alloy of aerospace quality and steel, which is welded with laser welding technology that is utilized in the automotive industry. Its design is impervious to harsh weather conditions and can be positioned on different wall materials. The double flaps provide insulation and energy efficiency. A tunnel kit can be fitted to the door to provide extra protection in extreme weather.
The Design
If you're looking to keep your home warm, and avoid drafts, then look for a cat door with insulation features. It could be a dual-flap model or a frame made of aluminum, which is less thermally conduction than PVC or Plastic. Certain models also have brushes that prevent drafts and aid in reducing energy loss. Look for the words "insulation," "weatherproof seals," or "energy efficiency" in the description of the item to find a door equipped with these features.
A lot of modern cat doors that are designed specifically for use in cold climates are equipped with a range of insulation features. The Endura Flap pet door, for instance, comes with a dual flap system and an insulated frame that is able to withstand the harshest weather conditions, helping stop drafts and loss of heat. It is also environmentally friendly and is made of an un-toxic polyolefin plastic that is safe for your pet and the planet.
Even if you've selected an insulated cat flap you may still find that cold air is able to traverse the gap between the frame of your door and your window or wall. The flap creates a draft when it is opened. Some manufacturers attempt to limit this by providing what is called a draught-exclusion device that is placed on the flap's exterior however it is important to remember that your cat needs to be able to open and close the door easily so that they can go in and out as they wish.
The most effective option is to install a brand new door specifically made for cold conditions, such as the RANGER pet door by Freedom Pet Pass. The RANGER pet doors have an extra thick, insulated door that reduces the conductive heating. It is also able to withstand extreme temperatures, including temperatures of -40 degrees Celsius. This level of protection is comparable to double-paned windows, however for a fraction of their cost.