Argon vs Krypton Gas Glazing
Energy Efficiency Guide
Energy efficiency enthusiasts: understand gas fill performance and cost differences for maximum thermal performance.
Argon vs Krypton Gas Comparison
Technical performance and cost analysis
| Property | Argon Gas | Krypton Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | 17.8 mW/m·K | 9.5 mW/m·K |
| Density | 1.78 kg/m³ | 3.75 kg/m³ |
| Cost Premium | Standard | +40-60% |
| U-Value Improvement | 15-20% vs air | 25-30% vs air |
| Best Application | Double glazing | Triple glazing |
| Availability | Standard | Specialist |
| Payback Period | 5-8 years | 12-18 years |
U-Value Performance Chart
Thermal performance comparison across glazing types
Double Glazing U-Values
Recommendation: Argon provides excellent value for double glazing with 95% of krypton's performance at 60% of the cost.
Triple Glazing U-Values
Recommendation: Krypton shows greater benefit in triple glazing, achieving passive house standards (≤0.8 W/m²K).
Annual Energy Savings Calculator
Argon Upgrade
Krypton Upgrade
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert answers to argon vs krypton gas questions
Krypton gas provides superior insulation with 30% better thermal performance than argon. However, it costs significantly more and is typically only cost-effective in triple glazing or very high-performance applications.
Krypton gas glazing typically costs 40-60% more than argon. For Bishop's Stortford homes, expect £50-100 extra per window for krypton vs argon gas fills.
High-quality sealed units retain 90%+ of their gas for 20+ years. Both argon and krypton have similar retention rates when properly manufactured and sealed.
Visually, there's no difference. The performance difference is measurable through U-values and energy bills, with krypton providing slightly better thermal comfort and reduced condensation risk.
Krypton is most cost-effective for triple glazing or very exposed properties. For most Bishop's Stortford homes, argon provides excellent performance at better value for money.
If gas leaks, the unit reverts to air-filled performance (similar to standard double glazing). Quality units with proper sealing rarely experience gas loss within their warranty period.
Related Comparisons
More comparisons to help you decide
Download U-value chart
Technical specifications