Winter brings with it ice, which is often caked to your windshield. This sends many drivers searching for what is the best ice scraper ? And some fail to find it. Whether you forgot to keep it in the car, it broke last winter or it simply vanished, you’ll find yourself in need of alternatives for a windshield ice scraper.
Warm Your Vehicle Instead of a Windshield Ice Scraper
The safest and easiest option is to warm your vehicle. Simply start our vehicle and turn the interior heat on with the fans positioned at the windshield and your vehicle will heat from the inside out. This can take anywhere from 5-20 minutes depending on the temperature and thickness of the ice.
If you can start your car remotely, it can cut your waiting time as it warms before you’re at your car. Ensure your exhaust is clear of snow if you decide to wait inside the car. Warming your vehicle is the safest and most convenient alternative for a windshield ice scraper.
Prevent Ice with a Vinegar and Water Mixture.
The best alternative to a windshield ices scraper is to not need one in the first place; by spraying a mixture of vinegar and onto the windshield. The vinegar’s acidity prevents ice crystals from forming on the windshield’s surface. Though if there are existing cracks this method can backfire by damaging them further.
On a whole windshield, all you need to do is spray the windshield down with the mixture while your vehicle is parked. The concoction should compose of:
- Three Parts Vinegar
- One Part Water
Mix Salt and Water to Dissolve Existing Ice
Another concoction that uses chemistry to eschew windshield ice scrapers is a simple mix of salt and water. Salt dissolves the ice’s surface and lowers the freezing temperature of the remaining water, preventing it from freezing again.
Sprinkling salt on the windshield can cause damage. The best application method involves:
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 2 cups of lukewarm water (hot will cause the windshield to shatter and cold will not work)
- Mix in a spray bottle
- Spray thinly and evenly on the windshield.
Once applied, simply wait for the ice to dissolve and wipe clean with your windshield when done.
In a Hurry? Mix Rubbing Alcohol and Water as an Alternative to a Windshield Ice Scraper
A faster method of ice removal is spraying a mixture of alcohol and water on your windshield. However, this is more expensive, and the alcohol you have in your home can freeze only under 5◦ F. The mixture should be sprayed onto the windshield evenly and thinly.
Your spray should be comprised of:
- 2/3 alcohol
- 1/3 lukewarm water
This mixture makes for a great and speedy alternative to a windshield ice scraper.
Be Prepared for Ice this Winter
These methods work best with a pristine and whole windshield. To ensure these methods will work on your auto glass get your windshield inspected at High-Tech Auto Glass as it may need to be replaced or repaired before winter causes further damage. For all your auto glass needs trust us with the best windshield repair in Pheonix, AZ.
