The fogging up of a windshield, side or back windows is not only aggravating, but potentially dangerous as well. The collection of water can interfere with the driver’s visibility and be a cause of distracted driving. These tips can help drivers prevent and quickly get rid of window fogging.
What causes fogged up vehicle windows?
When there is moisture in the air trapped in a car and the windows are colder than the dew point, the moisture from the air will turn into condensation on the windows. The dew point is the temperature when dew forms. Therefore, the moisture in the car’s air and the window temperature are the key factors that cause car window fogging.
To quickly remedy the fogged up windows and prevent future occurrences, the driver can take steps to increase the window temperature above the dew point and decrease the moisture in the air. Normal breathing of passengers increases the moisture in the air. Often, this is enough to trigger the condensation on windows. However, there may be other things that are contributing to the moisture in the air. The driver can begin by checking for any other causes and prevent them from adding to the problem.
Causes of excess moisture in the car’s air:
- Respiration from driver and passengers
- Leak that allows rain to drip into the interior
- Wet items like umbrellas left in the car
- Floors damp from snow or rain on shoes
- Open beverages left in the car
- Wet car upholstery from leaving a car window open
How to quickly clear fogged up windows
Fogged up windows interfere with the driver’s vision and can be hazardous. Many drivers will frantically do ineffective things in an attempt to get rid of window fogging quickly like wiping the windshield or window with their sleeve. Next time, try these tips about fast and effective ways to remove window fogging.
If it’s cold outside, the last thing you would think to do is turn on the air conditioner. However, the air conditioner is one of the best ways to get rid of fogged up windows quickly. An air conditioner removes moisture from the air inside of a car. Use the temperature control for the air conditioner and turn the temperature up.
The heater also can be used to get rid of fogging by increasing the temperature of the windows. Drivers may want to use the defrost setting to direct hot air onto the windshield. When using the air conditioner, heater, or defroster to get rid of window fogging, do not use the recirculation setting. Recirculating the air keeps the moisture trapped inside the car.
If it is not raining, the driver can open windows to allow the fresh air to prevent the passengers’ breathing from fogging up windows. Since the window fog is partially caused by cold windows, the temperature outside isn’t likely to be very warm. So, riding with the windows open enough to create good circulation and keep the windshield from fogging up will not be very comfortable.
Wiping off the windows and windshield with a cloth won’t solve the problem. After wiping clear, the passengers’ next breaths will steam up the windows once again. If the heater or air conditioner are being used, the cloth could help remove the condensation as the car’s heating or cooling system is working to prevent more condensation from occurring.
Preventing fogged up windows
Dealing with fogged up windows while you are in a rush to get to work or school can be terribly frustrating. Try these tips to prevent window fogging in the future.
1. Clean the windows and windscreen. Dirt on the windows can attract moisture.
2. Remove any damp items from the car. Try not to leave any beverages or wet umbrellas in the car.
3. Use a silica dehumidifier. A silica car dehumidifier is similar to the silica packets placed in the pockets of clothing for sale to prevent moisture from damaging the material. Simply place the car silica dehumidifier packet in the car, and it will help remove excess moisture from the air.
4. Fill a pair of stockings or thin socks with clean cat litter and lay them in the car. The cat litter will help draw out moisture from the air.
5. Ask an auto technician (like at Bockman’s!) about any leaks that you have noticed. Sometimes fixing a leak can be a simple task.
6. Apply an anti-fogging coating. There are several anti-fogging sprays on the market that you apply after cleaning the interior of the windshield and windows. Make sure you follow the product instructions for the best results.
7. Make sure you remove as much snow from your shoes before stepping in the car. Shake out umbrellas.
With these tips, you can greatly reduce the amount of moisture in the air which prevents fogged windows. In addition to these steps, you may want to regularly air out the car when you can safely do so without the threat of rain or snow entering the car.
