outswing exterior door

I received two bids for installing about a dozen SilverLine 8500/8520 windows by Andersen. One bid included windows with the LoE3/Argon/Foam Filled Frame the other I think is only LoE2 (no Argon gas). I know the windows in the second bid aren't included in the new energy conservation tax credit program, which would probably give me a $1500 credit on the first bid. The difference in the two bids was about $2000, so I'm wondering if having paying $500 more is worth while. Will I really see this savings in heat/ac for 5 or 10 years? If greater than that I can't see it worth it.

Just had a locksmith out. He took apart my door handle (it was not opening from the outside because the latch was loose...the part you put your thumb on) and a piece fell out because it was cracked. He said the entire door handle needs to be replaced and will cost $400 with installation. This was a ridiculously small piece that I find hard to believe can't be bought at a store. It was basically the piece that would allow when your thumb pushes to open the actual door. It looks like the this one but is definitely cheaper. Thanks. [url=http://www.designerhardware.com/Baldwin_Images_Blakely_Door_Handle_p/bld-85360.htm]Baldwin Images Collection Blakely Escutcheon Door Handle[/url]