May 17, 2011
Does one really save enough on fuel costs when replacing their windows with an low e and argon window?
I am thinking about replacing my single pane, with storms, with low e and argon windows.
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Filed under Gas Conservation FAQ by on May 17th, 2011. Comment. 
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Comments on Does one really save enough on fuel costs when replacing their windows with an low e and argon window?
h*ll no. It’s a gimmick. Do it for the looks not the energy savings.
Depends on what you have to pay for the windows and doors. Then it depends on how well the rest of your home is insulated, and how long you are going to live there.
It depends on where you live. It also depends on how insulated the rest of the house is.
Yes, I have the old aluminum double-panes, and it helps keep the high temp out of the house. Go for the best E-rating!
We replaced all our windows with double pane. It helped our electric bill tremendously.
We have also applied window tinting film to all our south facing windows. Cuts 90% of the rays and keeps heat inside during winter.The tinting isn’t dark and still permits a pretty clear view thru.
Compared to a single pane window, you’ll notice a big difference in heat savings. I replaced most single pane windows in my home and noticed a big difference in cooling the house this summer. Also, it made my home much quieter (I live in town) – a perk I didn’t expect. AND, it’s a tax deduction.
The windows will definitely help and they will be more convenient than the windows you now have. However, the biggest bang for your insulation dollars is insulation in your attic. You should have at least six inches of fiberglass insulation in your attic, preferably 12 inches. Your attic should also be properly vented to the outside, which increases the performance of the insulation.
If you have good doors, tight weatherseals and decent insulation, then replacing your windows makes good economic sense. It also makes sense if you actually need to replace the old windows. However, if your attic is uninsulated, be sure to get some insulation up there.
Yes, there is “some” savings in gas. But mind the warranty as much as the cost. Eventually the seal will go and you lose the gas. You then end up with two pieces of glass with condensation between them. Then you start all over again.
There is even a bigger savings in cash & carry windows. Find a dealer that will sell them to you. They are essentially measured to slide in the hole your old window comes out of. If you are ok working with molding, this is something you can really benefit from.
Good Luck!
I looked at some about 5 years ago and the savings really wasn’t worth the extra investment.