That dreaded morning scenario is all too familiar for British drivers: you're rushing to get to work, only to find your car encased in a thick layer of frost. While your first instinct might be to reach for a quick fix, experts are issuing a stark warning against one popular but dangerous method.
The Dangers of Using Hot Water
Resist the urge to grab a kettle of boiling water to solve your icy problems. According to breakdown specialists Green Flag, this common hack can lead to expensive and irreversible damage to your vehicle.
Pouring hot water on a frozen windscreen can cause the glass to crack due to thermal shock. This is the stress caused by a sudden, extreme change in temperature, which weakens the glass structure. Even if the damage isn't immediately visible, it can compromise the windscreen's integrity.
Furthermore, any spilled water can quickly refreeze on the ground, creating a hazardous patch of black ice for both you and other pedestrians.
The £2 Miracle Solution
So, what is the recommended method? Green Flag explicitly advises drivers to invest in a can of de-icer and a proper ice scraper.
The process is simple and effective: spray the de-icer liberally across the windscreen and watch as it begins to melt the ice. You can then effortlessly clear the residue with your scraper. The experts caution against using makeshift tools like credit cards or CD cases, as these can easily scratch and permanently damage the glass.
In many cases, a good quality de-icer is so effective that the ice simply melts away, eliminating the need for scraping altogether. This product, which can be purchased for as little as £2 from various retailers, often pledges to melt ice fast even in temperatures as low as minus 15 degrees Celsius.
Social Media Reaction and Important Warnings
The effectiveness of de-icer has been a topic of discussion on social media platforms like TikTok. User @mjckitchensandbathrooms shared his amazement after trying the hack, praising how well it worked.
However, the conversation also revealed an important safety consideration. Some commenters pointed out that de-icer contains chemicals that can be toxic and potentially fatal to cats. Pet owners are urged to use the product with care, especially if they or their neighbours have feline companions.
While some online questioned why de-icer was being treated as a new invention, others, like TikToker @shanefewster, defended the discussion. He noted that it serves as vital awareness for a huge amount of new and inexperienced drivers, hopefully leading to fewer dangerously half-defrosted windscreens on the roads.
Failing to properly clear your windscreen isn't just an inconvenience; it's a legal offence. Drivers caught with an obscured view can be slapped with a £100 fine and receive three penalty points on their licence. The law requires that all ice and snow be completely removed from your windscreen, rear and side windows, lights, mirrors, and number plates before you set off.
