How to Defrost a Car Window Without a Heater
by Shannon Peddicord
If you don't have the luxury of putting your car in a garage, winter temperatures can cause frost buildup inside and outside your vehicle's windows. There are several ways to defrost your windows and ensure a safe driving experience--even if your car's heater is not working or your built-in defrost is not doing the trick.
Step 1
Turn your windshield wipers on when you get in the car. If the exterior frost layer is thin, your windshield wipers will scrape some of it away. Avoid spraying your wiper fluid on cold days, though, as it can ice up and add to your visibility problems.
Step 2
Use an ice scraper to scrape the windows, both inside and out. Wipe up interior moisture and water droplets with a rag to avoid warping your dashboard.
Step 3
Spray your windshield's exterior with a de-icer formula. Available at automotive parts stores and major retailers like Wal-Mart, these inexpensive products melt windshield ice and prevent your windows from quickly refreezing on the outside.
Step 4
Purchase a portable vehicle defroster. These handy accessories cost less than $50 and plug easily into your car's cigarette lighter. They can be placed near the front, rear or side windows to blow warm, dry air onto frosted areas.
Step 5
Use a chamois sponge to wipe away thin layers of frost from your windshield's interior. These absorbent fabric sponges are also useful for cleaning the frost from the inside of your home freezer or refrigerator.
References
Things You'll Need
- Ice scraper
- Clean rag
- De-icer spray formula
- Portable vehicle defroster
- Chamois sponge
Warnings
- Never attempt to drive without defrosting your vehicle windows.
Writer Bio
Shannon Peddicord is a Denver freelance writer/editor with Bachelor of Science degree in journalism and a Master of Arts degree in communication.
