Defogging thermopane windows?
 

We have about 5 thermopane windows that have developed fog or condensation between the panes. We really don't want to replace the windows for another 3-4 years, because we want to replace them all at once (15+ windows) when we do some exterior work and an addition. So, I'm pretty hardset against replacing just a couple now when we know we'll be replacing them again in a few years.

A few days ago I got a quote from a guy who "defogs" windows. They drill small holes in the glass, spray in a solution to clean them, and then install small vents. They are guaranteed to remain fog-free for 10yrs. I was quoted $65 for small windows, $175 for the larger picture windows.

Seems like a no-brainer for me, I can wait a few more years until I can get the really nice windows I want, and not have to look at the condensation in the meantime. Anyone had this done?

Here's a similar outfit:
http://www.ccwwi.com/

Are those the argon filled windows?

If the fog is between the panes as you say it is a seal failure. It might be covered under the manufactures warranty.

One option would be to run a dehumiderfier.

Fog is between the panes, and the windows are 16 yrs old. Warrantee is long gone.

I just replaced 10 similarly fogged older windows, I bought new Pela's w/ tint & argon, double hung average price was ~$150/ea.

Did the install myself, not a big deal, ~1hr/window

Bill, thanks for the reply. We're not a big fan of these windows, and really want to change them out for nicer ones. The windows we like are $3-400 each, and quite a bit different than the ones we have now. We really wouldn't be able to just do a few; the house would look goofy unless we did them all. That's not in the cards untill we do the roof, and until wifey is done school and working again.

This window "defogging" seems like a sensible interem step. I just want to make sure I'm not getting hosed before proceeding. Thought maybe someone had experience with it.

Replace them, a vent will defeat the purpose of having dual pane windows.

That was my thought as well, but they claim that the vents don't affect the R value at all.