Quick Tips for De-Icing Your Windshield

Quick Tips for De-Icing Your Windshield

Every winter morning, you have an unpleasant chore of de-icing your windshield before driving off. If there’s ice on your windshield, you’ll have to spend a lot of time scraping it off for better visibility. This can be a cumbersome task. Thankfully, there are some easy tips and processes that you can follow to make it fast and effective. Here they are:

Apply a De-Icing Spray

A de-icing spray formula is the safest way to remove the layer of ice from your windshield. This formula is quite effective and speeding up the melting of ice. It is also the easiest way to de-ice windshields. You can prepare the solution in advance and keep it handy at all times. Store a bottle of de-icing spray in your vehicle as well. To make the formula, use one of these two common methods:

• Fill a spray bottle with water and add two scoops of road salt to it. Road salt has a low freezing point which makes it effective in melting the ice faster. 
• Alternatively, you can use a mixture of 70 percent isopropyl alcohol and 30 percent water. This formula has a low freezing point (five degrees), making it more effective at removing the ice. 

Use a Proper Process

Preparing a de-icing spray or buying a readymade solution is not all you need to do. You also have to apply the formula properly for it to be effective. While your car’s defroster can melt the ice and snow from underneath the windshield, the de-icing spray helps thaw the ice from the top layer. After applying the formula, let it rest on the surface for a few minutes. Then, chip the ice away gently using a good quality windshield scraper. 

Once the ice is loose, you can wipe it away with a soft cloth. Apply the formula in moderation and use a soft-bristled brush for cleaning the residue of spray from the windshields.

Follow the Right Procedure of De-Icing

Always try to apply the de-icing solution from inside out for effective results. Start with the right steps for faster removal and melting of ice. Turn on the car and set the temperature at the warmest level. Using the defrosting mode for windshields, turn the blower at the full blast but do it gradually to avoid condensation inside the car. 

Also, check the tailpipe when defrosting your car because the process may result in blockage of tailpipes with carbon monoxide. Exposure to this gas can be harmful to anyone present inside the car.

Don’t Forget to De-Ice the Other Windows

When you are in a hurry to drive off, you may ignore the windows, rear windshield and other glass on your vehicle. Remember, it can be dangerous to drive if you don’t have proper visibility from inside the vehicle. Make sure you de-ice all the glass on your car before heading out. It can be a little time-consuming but necessary to avoid a collision.

You can avoid icing on the windshield completely by covering your car every night. However, if you notice any damage on the windshield or other glass, visit your mechanic as soon as possible.