I'm replacing some old windows and the sales guy mentioned argon gas filling as an upgrade. It's supposed to insulate better, but it's also pricier. Anyone here actually notice a difference in energy bills or comfort levels? Or is it mostly marketing hype?
"It's supposed to insulate better, but it's also pricier. Anyone here actually notice a difference in energy bills or comfort levels?"
Honestly, I replaced my windows about three years ago and skipped the argon upgrade. My neighbor across the street went for it, though, and we've compared notes a few times. Neither of us noticed any significant difference in our energy bills or comfort levels. Sure, on paper argon-filled windows have better insulation values, but in real-world terms... I'm not convinced it's noticeable enough to justify the extra cost.
Maybe if you live somewhere with extreme temperatures it might make a bigger impact? But for typical climates, it seems like more of a marketing angle than a practical improvement. I'd personally put that extra money toward better sealing around the frames or upgrading insulation elsewhere in the house—probably get more bang for your buck that way.
I went with argon-filled windows about five years ago, and honestly, I did notice a slight improvement in comfort—especially near the windows during winter. Energy bills dropped a bit too, but nothing dramatic. Could've been partly psychological though...you know, spending extra money makes you want to feel like it was worth it. Still, if you're already replacing windows anyway, might be worth considering? But yeah, sealing drafts probably makes a bigger difference overall.
I think you're spot-on about sealing drafts making a bigger difference overall. When we replaced ours, we went with argon-filled too, and yeah, the comfort near the windows was noticeable—especially on those bitter cold days. Honestly, even if part of it is psychological, comfort counts for something, right? Plus, every little bit helps when it comes to energy savings. If you're already investing in new windows anyway, might as well go for it... peace of mind is worth something too.
Honestly, even if part of it is psychological, comfort counts for something, right? Plus, every little bit helps when it comes to energy savings.
Good points made already, but I'll add my two cents from personal experience:
- Had argon-filled windows installed about 4 years ago. Honestly, haven't noticed a dramatic drop in energy bills. Maybe a slight improvement, but nothing that jumps out when comparing month-to-month.
- Comfort-wise, yes, there's definitely less of that cold "radiating" feeling near the glass during winter. But how much of that is due to argon vs. just having newer, better-sealed windows overall is hard to say.
- One thing I do appreciate is reduced condensation buildup. Our old windows would fog up pretty badly on cold mornings—haven't had that issue since upgrading. Not sure if that's argon specifically or just better window tech in general.
- Overall, I'd say the argon filling probably helps incrementally, but it's not a miracle upgrade. If the price difference isn't huge, might be worth it for the small comfort boost and less condensation hassle. But if the cost is significant, I'd personally prioritize good-quality frames and proper installation first—those seem to make the biggest difference long-term.
Just my perspective...