Defrosting your car in the morning can take a long time during the winter. Scraping it too hard can cause a chipped or cracked windshield, and waiting for it to defrost using the car’s heater wastes gas. Luckily, there are some easy tips that can not only safely remove ice from your windshield but can also keep it from forming in the first place. Here’s what you need to know.

A Guide to Windshield Ice Removal

How to De-Ice a Windshield

Avoid using an ice scraper on your car, especially if it’s made of metal since it can leave behind chips and scratches. The easiest way to remove ice from a windshield is to create a de-icing spray. Gather a spray bottle and isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol comes in concentrations between 50% and 90%, but a higher concentration is better. Mix two-thirds of rubbing alcohol with one part water to create the spray. 

When you spray it on the windshield and other windows, the ice will quickly disappear. This is because the freezing point of isopropyl alcohol is 138 degrees below zero, so it remains liquid even as water turns to ice. Keeping the solution in your home will speed up the process since the liquid will be warmer, but you can also store the bottle in the car without worrying about it freezing. Use the wipers or a snow brush to remove excess ice or snow.

Other De-Icing Tips

All of the vehicle’s windows should be clear of snow and ice before venturing out on the road. It may be tempting to only deal with the minimum surface area needed to drive, but this can be a safety concern, and law enforcement could issue you a ticket. Make sure to brush the snow off of the car’s roof to prevent it from sliding onto the windshield or back window, obstructing your view.

The best way to quickly get on the road in the morning is to warm your car up gradually. Putting the heater on full blast is more likely to cause condensation, making it hard to see. Sudden temperature changes can also result in a cracked windshield. Turn the heat to the defrosting function before increasing the heat output. 

If you’re dealing with a chipped or cracked windshield, turn to the certified auto glass technicians at Consumer Glass. Located in St. Peters, MO, they serve the St. Louis and St. Charles metro areas, and their employees have an average of 20 years of experience. They provide same-day mobile service and have experience working with major insurance companies. Visit their website or call (636) 397-6800 to schedule a free repair estimate.