RAC tells all drivers to stop using 1 item to defrost windscreens in December
During months like December when temperatures plummet, it's commonplace to spot ice and frost coating cars in the mornings, but there are straightforward measures you can take to prevent it. Nevertheless, guidance has been issued after viral trends have surfaced showing people how to supposedly defrost their motors rapidly, but the RAC (Royal Automobile Club) has stated a popular method should absolutely never be employed.
This follows after numerous videos appeared claiming the trick can help people save considerable time in the mornings, but specialists have stepped in with some crucial expert advice to set the record straight. If you employ the technique to attempt removing frost, it transpires you could actually inflict substantial damage to your car.
Earlier this month, additional guidance was issued about how you can attempt to prevent the problem initially.
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The subject previously surfaced on TikTok when Extreme Clean Services posted a cautionary video, stating: "Don't throw hot water over an icy windscreen. It may crack.
"Instead, throw an old towel over it the night before to save precious time de-icing in the morning." The RAC says using boiling water can be dangerous too.
The RAC websiteexplains: "Setting off to work in the morning can be an arduous task in winter. You often have to wait an age for the windscreen to defrost and clear and, even if you've scraped the ice from the outside, the inside seems to steam up the moment you get in.
"Plan ahead to save time in the mornings by putting a windscreen cover on the night before. We recommend allowing about 10 minutes to clear your windscreen thoroughly using a scraper and de-icer if necessary.
"An important point here. DO NOT pour a kettle of boiling hot water over the windows in an attempt to melt any ice. 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."
It advises it's crucial to keep a bottle of de-icer in your vehicle, and you should also remember to ensure other windows, mirrors and even lights are clear of ice. Nothing should be able to restrict your vision, and a kettle is the one item you must avoid.
To try and prevent the inside from fogging up, you should utilise the heater, but begin with cold air. From here, you can slowly raise the temperature as the air dries out.
What else can you do?As demonstrated in the video, there are methods you can actually use to prevent frost from forming in the first place. If you don't have a screen cover, you can actually use items like a dry towel to get the job done. You simply need to ensure it isn't damp and is secured to the windscreen using the wipers.
According to the AA, there are also some other items you can use too. The AA websitestates: "You can stop a windscreen freezing in the first place with a little forward planning. If you have a garage, use it in winter because it'll stop your car from getting iced-up.
"If you don't have a garage, park your car on your driveway as close as possible to your home. The heat from your home can help to stop ice forming. Put a shield across your windscreen to stop it getting icy.
Just remember it's vital to use a dry piece of thick cardboard and to fasten it firmly with the wipers. By doing this, you'll prevent it from becoming soggy and freezing to the glass.
Even though using a commercial windshield cover is often a more efficient alternative, other materials can work if you haven't got one at home. You simply need to ensure you don't use flimsy materials like newspaper, as they will soak up moisture and freeze to the windscreen.