Gas-Filled Windows – What Are the Options, and Is There a Difference?

Makers of modern windows have improved their thermal efficiency by adding a second (or even a third) glass pane, the idea being that air trapped between the glass panels will add insulating value.  If you have single-glazed windows you probably know how cold to the touch the windows are.  Even the air near the windows is cold.  And the majority of heat loss (and cooling loss in summer) is through door and window openings.  You can cut down on that heat transfer as well as reduce your energy costs by replacing your old windows with newer more energy-efficient ones.  And in addition to double- and triple-pane options, many window manufacturers also offer gas-filled models. 

However, relying on air to provide insulation has its disadvantages.  One is that warm air rises and cool air falls, meaning your windows are warmer at the top and provide a “puddle” of cool air at the bottom, both of which can transfer their temperature into the interior air and create hot or cold spots.  Utilizing modern technology, many makers of today’s windows have substituted argon or krypton gas for the air filling.  Why?  These gases move much more slowly than ordinary air, meaning there is less movement within the panes and reduced heat transfer between the interior and exterior.  Less heat transfer means lower energy bills and more comfortable rooms. 

Some window companies offer argon-filled windows, some use krypton, some combine the two.  And at least one window company now offers an argon/nitrogen combination, claiming that the nitrogen keeps the window glass itself from taking on a convex or concave shape, which would reduce the insulation value.  So is there a difference?  If you’re a Minneapolis/St. Paul home owner who’s considering replacing your old windows, here’s a bit of information that might help you compare gas-filled window choices. 

• Both argon and krypton gases are nontoxic.  And both argon and krypton are nonreactive and have no odor. 
• Nitrogen is the most stable of the gases under pressure (or lack of it). 
• When it comes to the amount of visible light coming through the window, there is no difference between argon and krypton – both are completely clear. 
• Compared with krypton, argon is much cheaper to produce.  Argon-filled windows will cost less than similar windows filled with krypton.  However, they will not be as energy-efficient. 
• The optimum spacing between panes for argon to be effective is the same as for air – about 1/2″.   Krypton is a better option when the panes are closer together.  Krypton is most effective when window spacing is between 1/4″ and 3/8″. 
• An argon/krypton blend is a good compromise between cost and energy efficiency. 

In addition to gas fillings, there are other options available such as Low-E coatings and window tints to make your windows more energy-efficient.  The replacement window experts at Window Outfitters, Inc., can guide you through the maze of options to find the best window solutions for you.  We’re the Minneapolis area’s premiere window contractor.   Contact us today for a free consultation. 

Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.