High Tech Pet Armor Flex

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Summary

Armor Flex Low-E Patio Pet Door Installation Manual

Tools and Parts Identification

Lists required tools for assembly, unpacks the door, and identifies all included components.

Basic Door Assembly

Connects the top and bottom panel assemblies and installs the initial lock mechanism components.

Track Height and Riser Adjustment

Guides users on measuring the sliding glass door track height and removing the riser extension if needed.

Panel Assembly and Track Insertion

Joins panel assemblies, loosens top slider screws, and guides the insertion of the door into the track.

House Lock Tab Installation

Installs a house lock tab onto the top panel assembly for securing the pet door.

Lock Tab Mounting and Securing

Details marking height, drilling holes, and screwing the house lock tab to the door track.

House Lock Tab Engagement

Guides the user to slide the pet door and engage the house lock tabs with the door track.

Lock Mechanism Assembly

Installs the lock housing, knob, and hasp, and transfers the hasp to the sliding door.

Hasp Securing and Weather Stripping

Secures the hasp to the door, drills holes, and applies weather stripping to the door panel.

Vacation Lock Installation

Installs the vacation lock by drilling holes and screwing it to the sliding glass door.

Draft Stopper Seal and Completion

Applies the draft stopper seal and provides final congratulatory remarks and support info.

The provided manual details the installation of the Armor Flex™ Low-E Patio Pet Door, a product designed to integrate a pet door into a sliding glass patio door system. This device offers a convenient and energy-efficient solution for pet access while maintaining the security and weatherproofing of a home.

Function Description:

The Armor Flex™ Patio Pet Door is an insert that fits into the track of an existing sliding glass patio door, allowing pets to enter and exit freely without requiring the main patio door to be opened. It features a built-in pet door, which is likely an automatic or electronic pet door given the "Power Pet" branding and the presence of a "PX-2 Power Pet Door" in the parts list. This suggests advanced features such as automatic opening and closing, potentially controlled by a pet's collar tag or other sensor, to prevent unwanted animals from entering and to maintain energy efficiency. The "Low-E" designation indicates that the glass used in the patio door insert is a low-emissivity type, designed to reduce heat transfer and improve insulation, making the product more energy-efficient. The "Armor Flex" name implies durability and possibly a flexible flap design for the pet door itself. The system includes various locking mechanisms—a universal lock assembly, house lock tabs, and a vacation lock—to ensure the security of the home. Weatherstripping and a draft stopper seal are also included to maintain the thermal integrity of the installation.

Important Technical Specifications:

Door Height Compatibility: The manual specifies two height ranges for installation:
- 75" - 77": Requires removal of the Riser Extension.
- 77" – 80 1/4": Does not require removal of the Riser Extension.
Glass Type: Low-E (low-emissivity) glass for improved energy efficiency.
Pet Door Model: PX-2 Power Pet Door (integrated into the Bottom Panel Assembly).
Hardware: A variety of screws and wrenches are provided for assembly and installation:
- 1/4-20 X 1/2" Flat Head Machine Screws (8)
- #8 x 5/8" Round Head Thread Cutting Screws (4)
- #6 X 1/2 Round Head Sheet Metal Screws (6)
- #4 X 3/8" Flat Head Sheet Metal Screws (4)
- 1/16" Allen wrench
- 1/8" Allen wrench
Drill Bit Sizes Required:
- #32 (.117") drill bit
- 3/32" drill bit
- 1/4" drill bit
Tools Required: Size #1 Phillips screwdriver, electric drill, scissors, tape measure, pencil, safety glasses.
Lock Knob Holes: Two holes are provided for the lock knob, allowing for left or right-side installation, with one remaining unused.
House Lock Tab Height:
- 46 5/8" from the sliding rail if using the Riser Extension.
- 44 5/8" from the sliding rail if not using the Riser Extension.

Usage Features:

Modular Design: The pet door assembly consists of a Top Panel Assembly and a Bottom Panel Assembly, which are joined together using section connectors. This modularity likely aids in shipping and allows for some adjustability.
Adjustable Height: The Riser Extension can be removed to accommodate shorter patio door tracks (75"-77"), providing flexibility for different door heights.
Universal Lock Assembly: This feature allows the user to quickly lock their sliding glass door. It can be installed on either the left or right side of the pet door assembly, adapting to the existing patio door configuration. The lock arm, lock knob, and lock hasp work together to secure the sliding door.
House Lock Tabs: These tabs are installed on the wall side of the pet door and on the sliding glass door track to provide additional security by engaging with each other when the pet door is in its final position.
Vacation Lock: For enhanced security during extended periods away from home, a vacation lock can be installed at the top or bottom of the sliding glass door. This involves drilling a 1/4" hole for the bolt and two smaller holes for mounting screws.
Weatherproofing: The inclusion of weatherstripping and a draft stopper seal is crucial for maintaining the home's insulation and preventing drafts, which is particularly important for an opening in an exterior door. The draft stopper seal is applied to the inside edge of the open side of the sliding glass door to seal the gap between the sliding door and the stationary glass.
Easy Pet Access: The primary function is to provide pets with independent access, reducing the need for owners to constantly open and close the patio door.
Security Plugs: Round hole plugs are used to fill unused lock knob holes, and a rectangular hole plug is used if the universal lock assembly is not installed, ensuring a clean finish and preventing drafts.

Maintenance Features:

The manual primarily focuses on installation and does not explicitly detail ongoing maintenance. However, based on the components, general maintenance would likely include:

Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the glass panels and the pet door flap to ensure smooth operation and clear visibility.
Lubrication: Periodically lubricating the sliding mechanisms of the Top Slider and any moving parts of the lock assemblies to prevent sticking and wear.
Inspection: Regular inspection of the weatherstripping and draft stopper seal for wear and tear, replacing them as needed to maintain energy efficiency and prevent drafts.
Hardware Check: Periodically checking all screws and fasteners to ensure they remain tight and secure, especially for the lock assemblies and section connectors.
Pet Door Flap: For the "Power Pet Door," maintenance might involve checking sensors, batteries (if applicable), and the flap's condition for any damage that could affect its automatic function or weather seal. The "Armor Flex" name suggests a durable and potentially flexible flap material that might require less frequent replacement than traditional pet door flaps.
Lock Mechanism: Ensuring the lock arm, knob, and hasp operate smoothly and are free from obstructions. The instructions for tightening the lock arm set screw suggest that this might be an adjustment point if the lock mechanism becomes loose over time.

The Armor Flex™ Low-E Patio Pet Door is a comprehensive solution for pet owners seeking to integrate a pet door into their sliding glass patio door while prioritizing energy efficiency and home security. Its modular design, adjustable height, and multiple locking options make it adaptable to various home configurations and security needs.