The Worst Way To De-Ice Your Car Is Among The Most Common

Snow is falling (and falling, and falling) across the UK right now, and temperatures have plummeted as low as -12.5C in some parts.

Chilly conditions are expected to continue into the week, with rain and wind accompanying an area of low pressure. 

It means that drivers, some of whom have been advised to stay off the roads during the snow if at all possible, will have to face a lot of icy windshields each morning. 

If that’s the case, though, the RAC has advised motorists to avoid a common de-icing method that could accidentally crack your screen. 

Don’t use boiling hot water to de-ice your windscreen

“An important point here – DO NOT pour a kettle of boiling hot water over the windows in an attempt to melt any ice,” the RAC shared. 

“The thermal shock (going from sub-zero temperatures to nearly 100 degrees Celsius in a matter of seconds) can crack your windows, leading to an expensive bill.”

The AA agreed, stating that the method poses a “real risk” to your glass. 

In fact, they continue, even lukewarm water can cause cracks if there are existing chips and cracks in your glass. 

Worse: because warm water freezes faster than cold water, it could quickly refreeze on your driveway and windshield.

This rapid re-freeze could even “build up on the wipers and freeze them to the glass, risking damage to the wiper motor or ripping off the rubber if you switch them on”.

How should I de-ice my windscreen? 

Use a specially-made de-icer and scraper – not something like a credit card – to get the slippery surface off, advised the RAC.

Even better, put on a windshield cover the night before for easier removal.

The RAC recommends taking about 10 minutes to de-ice your windscreen. Don’t forget the side windows and mirrors to ensure visibility. 

And to prevent the inside windows from misting up, “use the heater but start off cold, then slowly increase the temperature as the air dries out,” they ended.