As we plunge into one of the coldest periods of the year, a recurring issue that plagues vehicle owners has once again reared its head: windshield fogging. This phenomenon, which reduces visibility and thus jeopardizes road safety, is particularly prevalent in hastily started vehicles and is a serious threat to traffic safety.
So, how can one prevent fogging in vehicles during winter? What's the quickest way to clear the fog? How can visibility be maintained during the winter months?
While many drivers are hesitant to turn on the air conditioning in cold weather, the primary cause of fogging is the humidity inside the vehicle. Running the air conditioning (A/C) absorbs this moisture by drying out the air.
Keep the air circulation button inside the vehicle switched off. Continually circulating the air inside can trap even the moisture from your breath. Allowing fresh air from outside to enter helps maintain the humidity balance within. Remember, the key is not to heat up, but to expel the humidity from the vehicle.
If your windows are dusty and dirty, they practically create the ideal environment for water droplets to cling onto. Therefore, wiping the interior surfaces of the windows with microfiber cloths can help delay the formation of fog. Moreover, cleaning the interior surfaces with substances such as shaving foam or vinegar can also slow down the fogging process.
The mats inside the vehicle or a wet coat left behind can essentially turn the car into a factory producing humidity. Therefore, it's beneficial to air out the car even in cold weather, not to forget damp items, and to pay attention to the cleanliness of the mats.