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To maintain thermal efficiency, argon gas is pumped inside of insulated glass panes. Argon as well as Krypton reduces the transfer of heat or cold coming in on the window's surface. A special tag should be on the window's inside track if you are purchasing a new one for your home. You may also notice two slight holes along the spacer where the gas was pumped into the window and the second one so the air could exit the window.

Components

Argon is a non-toxic, odorless, clear gas that encompasses less than one-percent of the atmosphere on Earth. The fill is inexpensive, and its thermal conductivity is approximately 67% of air. As time passes, approximately one-percent leakage occurs annually. Therefore, the window's efficiency should last for at least twenty years. Double or triple glazed window units use argon most often because argon is denser than the atmosphere and will provide a more efficient product versus just air between each pane.

Leakage

The window unit may have an appearance of fog or condensation if the window loses its gas content. However, at the rate it dissipates, it is not environmentally harmful. The performance of the window remains when minimal leakage is present. Simply stated, the gas leakage occurs faster than the nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen can re-enter the window unit for replacement.

Costs

The cost of adding argon will depend on several factors including the climate and location. Some companies offer upgrades for argon and low-E coatings. It may benefit the homeowner to pay the extra money to receive the additional savings by eliminating the drafty window situation. The argon process will eliminate the drafts/air currents that happen when different temperatures meet.

Long-term Benefits

Energy codes have improved resulting in newer homes having to have windows that maintain a specified or higher efficiency standard. Even though the single-pane windows are much cheaper, the additional cost of argon in a double-pane window unit will save your budget for many years to come.

Your home is an investment and making the right choices when purchasing window replacement should be something at the top of the list. After all, when wind can come in through the single-pane units, you are losing money. The argon filled units provide protection against outside elements when there are cold or hot weather conditions. The investment may be a bit more initially, but the long-run benefits are worthwhile.