Sep 06 , 2022
How Argon Filling Improves Windows Performance?
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How Argon Filling Improves Windows Performance?
Windows are required to keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter, but if you live in a place where extreme temperatures are the norm, your windows may not perform as well as they should. The reason? Without proper sealing, your windows can transfer heat or cold from the outside to inside your home making you pay for air conditioning or heating that you don't need.
Argon filling will prevent this kind of draft by filling every nook and cranny of your window frames, providing an effective barrier against the elements outside. Contact us today to learn more about argon filling!
What is Argon Gas?
Argon gas (Ar) is an odourless, non-toxic, and tasteless noble gas. It does not react with any other chemicals. Argon is used for many things, including insulating electrical wiring and constructing car airbags. In glass windows, argon gas prevents water vapour from condensing and misting on the surface of the window.
This can lead to lower maintenance costs due to minimizing energy loss through heat caused by the greenhouse effect, as well as less chance of fogging up from condensation on the surface of the window.
Furthermore, it helps prevent glare from sunlight, resulting in a more pleasing environment for occupants of the building. Because argon fills 99% of the space between individual molecules within the glass, this material has significantly improved insulation properties by creating a tighter seal around double-pane and single-paned windows.
The decreased amount of gas needed to fill each inch can make it easier for building managers to maintain their buildings while still achieving optimal performance.
Why Is Argon Gas Used in Windows?
Pioneered by scientists in the 1800s, argon gas was originally used as a way to reduce the dangers of explosions when filling balloons with hydrogen. The argon gas has been found to offer other benefits that make it ideal for use in our windows.
It has a higher index of refraction than air, meaning it offers more resistance to ultraviolet radiation and is also an excellent sound insulator. Beyond that, some forms of argon gas (along with nitrogen) can slow the rate at which water vapour passes through the glass; this makes them perfect for those living in areas where rain can be scarce, and uncomfortable humid conditions are prevalent. In addition, argon-filled windows can maintain their shape better under pressure and will not shatter like glass when struck.
These features, combined with the low maintenance cost, have made them a popular choice among homeowners who want peace of mind knowing their home is safe from intruders or break-ins while they're away or asleep at night.
Argon vs. Krypton Gas
Argon and Krypton gas fillings are the most popular window insulations. They are both highly effective at keeping homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer, but there are key differences between them that may make one or the other a better fit for your particular needs.
Krypton gas is slightly less expensive than argon but has a shorter lifespan, so you'll need to re-gas more often. Krypton can also be affected by changes in temperature, while argon is comparatively inert to temperature swings.
Argon's inert nature makes it easier to contain within walls without negative consequences, which might give it an edge when considering energy efficiency. In addition, because argon doesn't burn or react with oxygen like other gases, it doesn't emit any noxious fumes if mixed with air.
Finally, argon is four times denser than air meaning its insulation properties will last longer. If you're unsure what gas is best for your home, consult a professional to determine what system would work best for your situation. These professionals can then advise you on the options that would be the most efficient for your specific needs.
Benefits of Argon Gas Windows
Insulation: One of the biggest benefits of argon gas windows is that they are a great insulator. Not only do they help prevent the outside heat from coming in, but they also keep the inside heat from escaping out. In colder climates, this can save you money on your heating bill.
Safety: Another advantage to installing argon gas windows is their safety features. They provide much better protection against fire and smoke than traditional window glass. They're also non-toxic and don't react with chemicals or air pollutants to release toxins into the air like other types of glass do.
Ultraviolet light: Argon gas windows offer increased UV protection for those worried about overexposure to UV rays. Even if you choose not to install them for any of the reasons above, they're still worth considering because they offer an additional level of security.
Soundproof: this is another benefit of argon gas windows. Unlike many other materials, which have to be sealed around the edges to cut down on noise, argon gas windows act as soundproofing themselves.
Improve Value: A big reason people want to invest in argon gas windows is their ability to increase the value of their homes. However, homeowners have more freedom when remodeling projects thanks to these energy-efficient features.
Less expensive: One final perk to investing in argon gas windows is cost. While they may seem pricey at first glance, considering all of the bonuses that come along with them, it turns out that they're surprisingly affordable. All told, installing argon gas windows can save you up to 50% on your electric bills annually.
Conclusion
Argon gas filling is a good way to avoid weather-related window condensation, peeling paint and other issues. Your heat pump will run more efficiently, and your windows will last longer when they are argon filled. And this is not just an environmental benefit.You will save money on heating bills because argon reduces the air that leaks through your windows, so you won't have to crank up the thermostat quite as high in the winter.
If you are thinking about new replacement windows or have concerns about how old ones might affect energy efficiency, ask for more information about how argon gas filling can make all the difference for your home.