How to remove ice from your windscreen
What’s the best way to defrost your icy car windscreen this winter? We asked an expert“Winter is coming. We know what’s coming with it.”
While Game of Thrones’, Jon Snow may not have been referring to frost and icy windshields, he still technically warned us that with the coldest season, comes some major perils.
Now that we are well and truly in the midst of winter and many of us (especially in the southern states) are shivering through some pretty chilly nights, dawn comes to reveal some of these perils; frozen or frosted front windows, back windows, mirrors, heck even, sunroofs.
While commonplace, frosted or iced-up windshields are undoubtedly an inconvenience in the rush of most people’s morning schedules. And while it may be tempting to hit the road with nothing more than a peephole to look through, it is critical to remove the ice or frost properly before setting off, because poor visibility on our roads increases the risk of accidents.
RACV’s General Manager Motoring, Jeff Ames has offered his best tips to remove ice and frost quickly and safely, so motorists can get back on the roads sooner.
“Winter brings harsh weather which not only impacts upon driver safety through wet and icy roads but can cause adverse effects to your vehicle, including iced windscreens and windows. Ice tends to form on windscreens during a night of clear skies, calm conditions, and very cold air,” says Ames.
Without sounding too old here, the Bureau of Meteorology app can be quite useful for checking overnight weather conditions and the likelihood of a frost, so that you can prepare ahead because, as Ames says, the best thing to do if icy and frosty conditions are forecast is to utilise preventative measures.
“In these conditions, the best way to prevent your vehicle’s windscreen and windows from incurring a build-up of ice and frost is to park it in a garage overnight.
Alternatively, a car or windscreen cover should also protect the vehicle from gathering frost,” Ames says.
Another preventative step you can take, says Ames, is to keep your windscreen wipers up overnight to help with ease of movement over the frost in the morning, or to purchase and apply an anti-frost spray in the evening.
While the warmth of a garage or a cover may be options for some, for others they aren’t, or due to other factors, can't be utilised. In these situations, if you head out to find your ride to work, or the school drop-off iced over, Ames says there are actions you can take.
- Start the vehicle’s engine while remaining parked, turn on the heater to full and set the direction to the windscreen, or the defrost function. “Once the heat has softened the ice, use your windscreen wipers to break up the ice until removed from the glass,” says Ames.
- Pouring cold or lukewarm (never hot) water onto the windscreen can also assist in breaking up the ice. “RACV recommends using a vehicle’s heater and defrost function to first warm the windscreen before applying water to the glass to reduce the extreme change in temperature. Never use hot water to defrost the windscreen or windows as you run the risk of cracking the glass,” says Ames. It can also cause personal injury, including burns. Although there are online hacks involving salt or vinegar to remove windscreen ice, the RACV advises not to do this because they may also damage the paint and glass of your car. Other hacks can also be potentially dangerous to your own health so it’s best to avoid these.
- Plastic or silicon ice scrapers can also assist in breaking up the ice quickly although, be careful to never use a metal scraper as this can scratch the windscreen.
“The RACV reminds motorists to completely remove all ice from windscreens and side view mirrors before driving, as an obstructed view of the road from frost or condensation is extremely dangerous,” Ames says.
Related: Four hacks for a clear windscreen: Demister tips and tricks
Related: Six easy window cleaning hacks and tips to try
Related: Top five winter car accessories you need
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