The problem with old windows.
Argon filled windows problems.
Argon gas is also relatively abundant in the atmosphere making the windows an inexpensive option when compared to other energy efficient windows.
Another trademark problem of double pane windows that have become exposed to drafts and likely lost all the argon gas is when condensation builds up on the inner surface.
When sunlight strikes an argon filled window the glass expands but argon doesn t.
However the rate at which the dissipation occurs is unknown.
The spaces are filled with argon or other gasses to slow the transfer of heat through the window.
One cause of leakage is an improper sealing of the window.
Air also insulates less effectively than gas fills.
The resulting expansions and contractions can damage the weather sealing causing argon to leak out.
Argon is inert and will not cause this problem.
A prominent concern with argon filled windows is an issue with leakage.
Gases like argon are preferable to air because air contains moisture that can condense on the inside of the glass units making the window cloudy.
One disadvantage of argon is that it slowly leaks out of the window over time.
Argon leakage can be the result of a faulty window seal.
These qualities make it difficult for people to detect.
Argon gas has no color and no odor.
When effective double pane windows should not produce much or any condensation.
These windows can have problems with argon gas leakage.
Because old windows are generally single paned they can be drafty and inefficient.
Unfortunately it is generally agreed upon that argon gas dissipates out of the windows over time minimizing the effectiveness.
Sometimes a basic clean will take care of the problem.
It is also likely that water vapor will gradually enter the ig unit resulting in fogging if enough moisture gets in.
It is this sealed space that gives the window most of its thermal performance.
Argon is a colourless and odourless gas so it cannot be detected by a human which means the argon could leak from your windows over time and you would not realise it.
An inability to detect the gas could lead to a situation where the gas leaks without any realization.
When windows are filled with a special low conductivity gas such as argon or krypton it is clear that those gases will be lost over time if capillary tubes are left open.
