You probably don’t think much about your windshield washer fluid when you’re out driving, as long as your reservoir is full. But with winter weather upon us, it is worth thinking about finding a washer fluid that is going to be as effective as possible at keeping your windshield clear even in the coldest of temperatures. That’s why those of us living in snowy areas should consider using a deicing wiper fluid. De-icer fluid is a specially formulated wiper fluid that performs better in freezing temperatures than normal fluid. Keep reading to learn more about this handy tool, and how it can help make your winter driving more worry-free.
Why not use Standard Windshield Washer Fluid
Regular washer fluid, sometimes called summer windshield washer fluid, is meant to be used in warmer months. It is also the cheapest and easiest to find, which is why many people use it year-round. It is great at keeping your windshield clean summer through fall, but isn’t meant to be used on mud, snow, or ice. This is because this type of fluid can freeze, either in your fluid take or in the lines that carry it to your windshield. This can leave you with no fluid when you try to use it. Even if you can get the fluid to spray out, unless your defroster has been on long enough to warm your windshield, it isn’t going to be very effective at clearing it. What’s more, this type of fluid can actually freeze on your windshield if it is below freezing outside, leaving you with even less visibility.
What Makes De-Icer Fluid Different?
De-Icer fluid is specially formulated to include a higher amount of methyl alcohol, which gives them a lower freezing point. This means that they won’t freeze in your tank or on your windshield. They can also contain a small amount of antifreeze, which helps to melt thin layers of ice or snow that can accumulate on your windshield overnight. While some people may be tempted to try and use road or sidewalk salt to melt ice on their windshield, this is a bad idea. The salt can leave a filmy residue on your windshield that can be hard to remove, while also causing damage to your wiper blades, windshield seals, and your vehicle’s paint.
If you would like to see the difference between these two windshield washer fluids, simply check the label on the bottle. Standard washer fluid freezes at about 32 degrees, whereas de-icer fluid won’t freeze unless it hits -20 degrees. Some heavy-duty de-icing fluids can even be safe down to -30 degrees, which can be handy if you’re traveling even farther north for the holidays.
While making the change from standard fluid to de-icer fluid may seem like a chore, it can really make a big difference in your ability to keep your windshield clear this winter. And you do not have to worry about draining the old fluid. Simply top your tank off with de-icer fluid the next time you need a refill. We hope that this article has helped you to learn how de-icer fluid can help keep you safe on the road this winter. If you ever have any questions, your neighborhood Jiffy Lube® is here to help! Simply give us a call or stop by anytime, and we will be happy to help you with any concern you may have.
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