Argon gas in double-pane windows increases thermal efficiency, which reduces heating and cooling costs and increases the comfort and resale value of a home. So, what if your gas-filled window loses some or all of its fill content due to some issue. Can argon gas be replaced in windows? We’ll answer this and other general questions about argon gas and its use as fill material for energy-efficient windows here.
What is Argon Gas?
Argon gas is the third most abundant gas on earth. This very common inert gas is non-toxic, non-flammable, odorless, and colorless. That means argon gas is safe for use in homes, including as fill for energy-efficient replacement windows. Argon gas is denser than air. So, when it is injected between the sealed double glass panes of energy-efficient windows, it improves their insulative effectiveness.
Argon Gas Filled Windows
Double-pane windows were the predecessors of today’s gas-filled versions. Even the empty air space between the double glass panes made those windows an improvement over single glass windows. Adding argon gas fill has been the most significant advancement in modern energy-efficient replacement windows. It slows the transfer of heat through the window and can significantly reduce home energy costs.
What Can Cause An Argon Gas Window To Leak?
If not properly installed, window seals can cause the argon gas to seep from the seal around the enclosure between the double glass panes. A window professional can quickly determine the level of argon gas between window panels by using a metering device. A minor percentage of gas loss is expected from windows over time. So, if only a small amount of gas has been lost, and there is a negligible loss of energy efficiency, it may not be necessary to fix the window.
Can You Replace Argon Gas in Windows?
Some gas loss is expected and accounted for in all gas-filled energy-efficient windows. If only a small amount of argon gas is lost from the window, it may not affect the window’s energy efficiency and may not need correction. But, a window can lose all of its argon gas within just a few years if it was improperly installed. Or, if the windows are very worn, a full replacement is probably necessary. If a substantial percentage of the gas fill has been lost, then a window professional can replace argon gas in windows, but this is only a temporary solution.
Replacing Argon Gas in Windows
When the window seals are worn out due to extreme weather exposure, poor installation, poor quality window construction, normal aging, etc., it’s probably time to replace the seals or the entire window. Contact a professional. If the window is in good enough condition, the window contractor can use a device to inject argon gas into the space between the glass panes. This fairly complex process should not be attempted as a DIY project. And again, even when done by a professional, it is unlikely to succeed as a long-term solution. The solution could be probably replacing the entire window!
Argon Gas Filled Windows From Advanced Window Products
Our argon gas-filled energy-efficient replacement windows are built with meticulous attention to detail and engineered for long-term durability and efficiency in minimizing thermal conductivity.
