Having to deal with a foggy windshield is something every driver has encountered at one point or another, and when wintertime rolls around this problem becomes a persistent one for Canadians. Not only are foggy windows annoying to deal with, but they are also a safety hazard that needs to be dealt with swiftly in order to have an unobstructed view of the road. Thankfully, clearing foggy car windshields is something car experts have down to a science and today we’re going to be going over everything you need to know about how to defog your windshield.
Why Windshields Fog in the Winter
The fog that forms on a windshield is actually water vapour that has condensed on the inside of the glass. This phenomenon can occur in both warm and cold climates and it takes place when water vapour in the air falls below or above dew point, the atmospheric temperature at which dew droplets form. In winter specifically, this tends to happen when the temperature inside your car is warmer than the outside. The inside of your car becomes much more humid than the outside due to your body heat and moisture from your breath, while the air outside is much drier. These opposing states create the perfect condition for moisture to condense on your windshield and fog to form.
How to Keep Windshield from Fogging
There are a few preventative measures you can take to stop your windows from fogging in the first place:
· Stomp off the snow on your boots: Any moisture that makes its way into your car will turn into condensation once dew point hits so try to minimize the amount that gets inside.
· Keep your windows clean: Frequently giving your windshield a good wipe down will reduce the amount of dust and oil that water can cling to and prevent the glass from steaming up.
· Dehumidifier: A car dehumidifier works wonders when it comes to removing moisture from the air and minimizing the amount of fog that forms.
· Anti-fog coating: This handy treatment reduces the surface tension of water droplets and effectively disperses them into an invisible thin sheet that’s fog-free.
How to Defog Windshield
There’s nothing worse than walking out to your car in the morning only to discover the windshield is already completely fogged up, especially if you’re crunched for time. Here are the steps you should take to defog your windshield as quickly as possible:
1. Crank the heat: Put the heat on its maximum setting. Hot air can hold more moisture than cool air.
2. Turn on the AC: As the cool air passes over the cooling coils, it will pull moisture from the air.
3. Turn off the recirculation button: This will allow colder, dryer air to be brought inside your car.
4. Crack your windows: If your windows aren’t frozen shut, crack them a bit so that some of the humid air inside your car can be exchanged for the dryer air outside.
How to Clean Windshield Haze
If you still can’t see clearly out of your window after you’ve tackled all the frost on it – you probably have windshield haze. Windshield haze is a buildup of smoke residue that can be caused by pollutants in the environment and/or your car’s engine. To get rid of haze on your car’s windshield, do the following:
1. Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Put towels over your dashboard to prevent drips from the solution from getting on it.
3. Spray the inside of your windshield with the vinegar mixture.
4. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe your windshield clean.
Putting these tips and tricks into practice is a surefire way to keep your windshield free of fog and other elements that reduce your ability to see clearly. With one less thing to worry about, driving this winter will be much more enjoyable!
Why North Auto Glass
North York Auto Glass is a locally-owned auto glass shop that offers the most affordable windshield repairs and windshield replacements in the region. Our certified auto glass technicians can fix windshield issues on all vehicle makes and models and we waive up to 100% of your insurance deductible. Contact us today to get the best of the best auto glass repair and auto glass replacement services!
If you live in Oakville, Ontario, and are looking for a windshield replacement company in Oakville, then Auto Glass Zone Oakville can be of great assistance to you if you are in need of a replacement windshield for your vehicle.
Leave a Reply