The Do’s and Don’ts of Defrosting Your Windshield

Have you ever missed the train or made your kids late to school because you’ve spent far too long scraping ice off your windshield? Do you dread the cold because of the inevitable snow and ice that comes along with it and throws a wrench in your plans? If this sounds like you, now is the time to listen up!

Winter can be beautiful, but it’s hard to enjoy it when you can’t see out of your windshield. To help you avoid accidents and injury to your car, we’ve put together a list of things you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to defrosting your windshield.

DO: DIY a de-icer

All you need is a spray bottle and a couple of household items to keep you from standing in the cold for too long. There are a couple of different solutions that will help melt the ice on your car faster. Mix together (don’t shake) rubbing alcohol and dish soap for one, try 3 parts white vinegar and one-part water or even 1/3 a cup of water and 2/3 cup of rubbing alcohol. These concoctions should have you on your way in no time!

DO: Place your hand on your windshield

This may sound a bit strange, but hear us out! After turning your heat and defroster to their highest settings, place your hand on your windshield from inside your car. Your hand will act as a second heat component and speed up the defrosting process a bit.

DON’T: Pour boiling hot or freezing cold water over your windshield

It might sound like a good idea in the moment to do one of the above, but trust us- it’s not. Pouring cold water over an already thin layer of ice can create an even thicker one that will leave you out in the cold (literally). On the other hand, pouring a bucket of boiling hot water over your windshield isn’t advised either. Going so quickly from one extreme to another can cause cracks and breaking which not only means missing work but also receiving an extra bill you don’t need. The only time to consider pouring water over your windshield is when it is over 25 degrees Fahrenheit outside and the water you are using is lukewarm.

DO: Cover your windshield

To prevent any ice from forming on your windshield at all, try placing something over it. Anything from a towel to a large piece of cardboard will do. If this is something that happens frequently, consider buying a magnetic windshield cover to save you some time and laundry. Just don’t forget to put it in place the night before.

Source

DON’T: Use a credit card as an ice scraper

There are various reasons why this should never be an option. First, you will be standing outside forever- you’re better off breathing hot air over your windshield to make the ice melt. Next, it can do damage to the glass. Lastly, credit cards are small and slippery and can get lost quickly and easily. It is very likely that you will drop it somewhere making you extra late to wherever you need to be and without funds.

DO: Invest in a remote car starter

Sure, it’s a little pricey, but it’s definitely worth it. If you are someone who leaves at the last second you don’t really have time to waste scraping ice off your car. Set your car’s settings for optimal defrosting the night before and start your car a few minutes before you are ready to leave. Not only will ice be less of an issue, but your car won’t feel like a walk-in-cooler either.

DON’T: Use salt or salt water to melt ice on your car

Just because it is okay for the roads does not mean it’s okay for your car.

Source

Stressing because of an icy windshield can be avoided as long as you are prepared with the right knowledge and equipment. Contact us for more information and answers to any questions you may have!

 

Sources:

• How to defrost your windshield very, very quickly: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/how-to-defrost-your-windscreen-very-very-quickly-a6811141.html
• Ice Breakers: How to De-Frost Your Windshield Quickly and Safely: http://www.miltonruben.com/blogs/795/how-to-2/ice-breakers-how-to-de-frost-your-windshield-quickly-and-safely/
• Defrost your windshield in a hurry, because you’ve got better things to do: http://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/1021085/tricks-to-defrost-your-windshield-in-a-hurry

Posted in Car Tips | Comments Off on The Do’s and Don’ts of Defrosting Your Windshield