IT’S that time of year where de-fogging your windscreen has become part of the morning routine.
And while there are many tips and tricks to speed up this process, the AA has confirmed the best method.
Chiming in on the age old debate, the roadside assistance organisation broke down the speediest method to clearing your windscreen and getting moving in the morning.
While this tip can help speed up your routine, it can also be reassuring in the event of your windscreen fogging up while you are driving.
Some people swear by cranking up the heating and hoping for the best, while others simply wipe the mist away with a sponge.
Official guidance
But now the experts at the AA have revealed exactly what you need to clear your foggy windscreen this winter.
The helpful advice comes after a Reddit user asked: “Is there a standard way to defog car windows? I have been driving for almost a year now and I have no idea how to properly defog my windows.
“I’ve only had to defog my windows probably less than five times so far so I never worry about it.”
The poster went on to say that they were driving at night recently when their windscreen began to fog up and “no matter what I did it never cleared up”.
Eventually, the motorist just resorted to using their wipers constantly to see better.
“In a cold morning, where there is a lot of condensation, I just use a rag to wipe off the condensation, is that a proper thing to do?” they asked.
According to the AA, the best way to defog windows is by using a combination of hot and cold air.
“You should turn on your warm air blower and rear windscreen heater as well as your air-con,” an AA statement read.
“If possible, allow some outside air to come into the car as well. This should help you quickly turn a frosted over car back into something more drivable.”
Step-by-step guide
For the first step, start the engine and turn on the warm air blower to the windscreen.
Next, switch on the rear window heater and heated mirrors, if you have them.
You should also turn on the air-con, even if it’s freezing out, as it’ll remove moisture from the air to stop the car from misting up.
What is condensation?
Condensation is water droplets that form on a window when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface.
Condensation occurs when:
Air cools
Warmer air can hold more moisture than cooler air. When moist air touches a cold surface, like a window, the water vapour in the air turns into liquid water droplets.
Windows are colder than walls
Windows are often colder than insulated walls, so condensation is more likely to occur on them.
Windows are poorly insulated
Poorly insulated windows can lead to condensation, especially if they are made of aluminium, which conducts heat quickly. If left untreated, it can lead to mould and other serious problems.
Avoid using your hands to wipe the misted-up windows as you’ll leave smears, opt for a lint-free absorbent cloth if necessary.
You should stay with your car the whole time while the engine’s running and before you know it, your windscreen will start to clear up.
More on motors
Plus, a mechanic revealed how Britain’s favourite used car can cost you £2,000 in “hidden” faults.
Meanwhile, Blue Badge holders warned they face a fine up to £1,000 for failing to follow a little-known rule.
And UK drivers have been warned over a little-known firework law that could land you with a £300 fine and six penalty points.
Plus, five new driving laws you may have missed and how you can be fined £100s for breaking them.
And forgetting to use a crucial button in your car could see you fined up to £5,000 this autumn.
