Double-Glazed with Moderate-Solar-Gain Low-E Glass, Argon/Krypton Gas

This figure illustrates the characteristics of a typical double-glazed window with a moderate solar gain Low-E glass and argon/krypton gas fill. These Low-E glass products are often referred to as sputtered (or soft-coat products) due to the glass coating process. (Note: Low solar gain Low-E products are also sputtered coatings.) Such coatings reduce heat loss and let in a reasonable amount of solar gain and are suitable for climates with both heating and cooling concerns.

In heating-dominated climates with a modest amount of cooling or climates where both heating and cooling are required, Low-E coatings with high, moderate or low solar gains may result in similar annual energy costs depending on the house design and operation. Low solar gain Low-E glazings are ideal for buildings located in cooling-dominated climates. Look at the energy use comparisons under Window Selection to see how different glazings perform in particular locations.

Note: These values are for the center of glass only. They should only be used to compare the effect of different glazing types, not to compare total window products. Frame choice can drastically affect performance.