Green Flag has shared the simple button drivers ought to push when they get in their car to quickly clear windscreens of steam. The cold weather is here for the foreseeable future, which will see many people wrestling with icy windscreens and excess steam preventing clear visibility ahead of their journeys.
It’s vitally important to ensure all your car windows are clear, which is reiterated by the Highway Code. It warns “before you set off, you must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows” and “ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible”.
This is further supported by section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which makes it a legal requirement to be able to see the road ahead clearly before you set off.
Many people turn to social media on the quest for tips and tricks to speed up the de-misting and de-icing process, with a range of ideas and supposed hacks to help get the job done.
Roadside assistance and vehicle recovery provider, Green Flag, has shared the alleged fastest method to get rid of steam when you first get in your car on a cold winter’s day.
The steam is caused by condensation, which occurs when warm air comes into contact with a cold surface. On X, Green Flag posted the guide alongside the caption: “Whack on the kettle. Just don’t use it for your windscreen.
“Treat yourself to a brew and read through some handy hacks for these freezing mornings. And if your vehicle conks out in the cold, don’t forget that you can use our app to get 24/7 help.”
Green Flag urges drivers to switch their air-con on to avoid their windows steaming up, though the natural desire for warmth may make people more drawn to the heating dial instead.
The roadside assistance provider said “air-con’s your friend”, and explained: “First: turn the fan on full. Ensure the air flow is pointed at the windows and turn the heating up.”
It added: “Most importantly, make sure the air-conditioning is turned on – this will dry the air. Turn the recirculation function off.
“That ensures dry air from outside is drawn in rather than simply pushing the moist air inside around. Opening your windows slightly will also help to disperse the moisture.”
It also urges drivers to “be patient” as it will take a few minutes for the steam to completely clear. Green Flag added: “Driving with just little portholes to peer out of is against the law – not to mention incredibly dangerous.”
Never set off driving unless your windscreen and windows are completely clear. If you drive with an obstructed view, you could incur a fine or, worse, be involved in an accident.
