Winter is approaching in Illinois which means temperatures dropping, snowfall, and the dread of having to de-ice your car windshield in the morning. Learn everything you need to know about de-icing your car windshield to ensure a less stress-free morning commute!
Prevent an Icy Windshield Ahead Of Time
Prepping ahead of time can go a long way in order to keep your windshield free of ice. Regularly check your local weather, and if precipitation is ever in the forecast during cold weather, use a tarp or sheet to cover the windshield overnight. However, when inches of snow is expected, these covers may be difficult and unwieldy. Commercial sprays that prevent ice from attaching to the glass are available on the market, but they can become costly. A combination of three parts white vinegar to one part water can do the trick to prevent ice from sticking. But this solution should be used carefully, as prolonged exposure of vinegar to painted surfaces can remove the wax. Spray the solution only on the windshield and windows, and wipe away any excess or overspray.
Removing Ice From Your Windshield
To remove ice from a windshield on a cold, wintry morning, follow these steps:
- Start the engine
- Set the Heater to Defrost
- Adjust the airflow to recirculate
- Move the temperature to full heat
If your car has an automatic climate control system, simply set it to defrost. If your car has an electric-heated windshield, turn it on for rapid results.
Sprays can also be used as a great way to get rid of ice, however they can become pricey. An easy, at-home solution will do just the trick! Combine two parts 70% isopropyl alcohol with one part water and add a couple drops of dish soap. This solution sprayed on an icy windshield will quickly loosen the ice, allowing you to scrape it off much easier. Store the solution in the trunk of your car to make sure that you always have it on hand!
It can be tempting to remove the least amount of ice necessary in order to see, however the proper procedure is to remove all ice from the windshield and windows. There even may be laws in your state that require all snow and ice to be removed from not only the windshield, but also the top of the car before driving.
If you follow all of the tips that are provided above, we are sure that you will save at least a couple minutes off your morning commute!
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