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Windshield wipers protect drivers and auto glass from the outer elements. They increase visibility in different weather conditions such as rain, snow, or debris. Prolonged use or simple wear and tear will affect your wipers. When your wipers don’t work properly, visibility diminishes to the point where your safety is inhibited. Knowing how to maintain your wipers can increase safety on the road for you, your passengers, and other drivers.

How to Prolong the Use of Your Windshield Wipers

1. Keep Your Windshield Clean

A clean windshield will lessen the friction with your wipers and auto glass, decrease wear and tear, and provide higher visibility on the road. Clean your windshield wipers with a squeegee and a cleaner every time you stop at a petrol station to fill your gas tank.

2. Refill Your Wiper Fluid

Perform a routine check while at the gas station to see if your wiper fluid needs a refill, or keep a spare bottle in your trunk. Wipers aren’t designed to work on a dry windshield. Inadequate fluid will speed up their deterioration and decrease the longevity of your windshield wipers.

3. Clear Ice and Snow

Auto GlassNever use your wipers to scrape away ice or snow from your auto glass. It produces the same effect as cleaning a dry windshield. Ice is especially harsh on the blade’s rubber, which will make the dry rubber crack and break away. Take some time before you leave your parking lot to clean your auto glass with an ice-scraper, and use a defroster to warm your windshield before turning on your wipers.

4. Prevent Ice Build-Up

Leave your wipers elevated in the air overnight so that there’s less chance of ice or snow build-up on the blades. This will prevent your wipers from sticking to the windshield in the morning.

5. Avoid Direct Sunlight

Rubber can dehydrate and crack if left in direct sunlight for a prolonged period. Avoid the harsh UV rays by parking in the shade or covering your windshield, which will prolong the life of your wipers.

 

If you notice that your windshield wipers need a replacement, or if they’ve damaged your auto glass, visit Badger Glass in Anchorage and Fairbanks, AK. Their auto glass specialists can repair those small blemishes on your windshield and provide you with new wipers at an affordable rate. Learn more about their auto glass services on their website, or schedule a visit by calling (907) 452-3927 for the Fairbanks location or (907) 522-3927 for the Anchorage shop.

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