Smart solutions to keep your car ice‑free this winter
Winter poses a challenge for every driver. Low temperatures and frosted windscreens make mornings cumbersome. How can you quickly and effectively remove ice from your car's windscreen? This trick will assist.
21 November 2024 19:13
During winter, drivers face an added task – dealing with frost and ice on their car windows. Each winter brings similar challenges, and frozen windows are among the most persistent. Not only must you spend considerable time cleaning them, but they can also pose a genuine safety threat. Driving with partially cleared windows is dangerous and can result in a hefty fine.
It's worth knowing effective methods that will not only simplify daily windscreen de-icing but also maintain your car's condition. This way, you can avoid unpleasant surprises every winter morning.
How to de-ice your car windows?
One effective home method for de-icing windows is to use a bag filled with warm, but not hot, water. This method is simple and effective – just seal the water in a ziplock bag and gently press it against the window, moving it until the ice is completely removed. This clever trick will save you time and stress on any frosty morning.
An alternative is to prepare a mixture of alcohol and water in a 2:1 ratio. Pour it into a spray bottle and apply it to the windows. Alcohol acts swiftly because it has a lower freezing point than water. In a few moments, the window will be clear, and you’ll be ready to hit the road.
Avoid this when de-icing car windows
Many drivers, looking to save time, resort to drastic measures like pouring boiling water on the windows. While this may initially seem quick and effective, it has its drawbacks. A sudden contact of a cold window with hot water can cause it to crack, involving costly repairs and the risk of injury. Additionally, steam from the warm water condenses on the windows and soon re-freezes, creating new layers of ice.
What to remember?
When choosing a parking spot, consider a few factors that can minimise the problem of frozen windows. If possible, park your car in a garage. It’s the simplest way to avoid the unpleasant morning ritual of removing ice.
If you don't have a garage, try to park close to the building wall. The warmth emitted by the building will help partially protect the vehicle from the cold and, thus, from window freezing. Consider positioning the windscreen facing east to let the morning sun naturally help melt the ice. You can also use special covers placed over the windscreen to protect it from ice buildup.
