Should I Put My Windshield Wipers Up When It Snows?
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Snowy weather can be stressful for vehicle owners, as ice and snow can cause a lot of damage to our cars. When it comes to keeping your vehicle in the best possible shape during winter, there’s always a discussion if your windshield wipers should remain down or if you should put them up.
People have different opinions about this topic, so we want to shed some light on how to go about this situation. Keep reading to determine if you should put your windshield wipers up when it snows.
Windshield Wipers Up
Let’s begin with the belief that you should put your windshield wipers up.
If you place your windshield wipers up during snow, it will be easier for you to clean the windshield and scrape off excess snow and ice. Also, as the wipers are not touching the windshield, they won’t be able to freeze to it. The benefits are:
- Easier to clean
- No freezing to the windshield
- Prevents wiper damage
- No damage to the motor if you accidentally left your wipers on
Leaving Windshield Wipers Down
Some people insist on keeping their windshield wipers down.
If your windshield wipers stay down, it will be easier for them to stick to the windshield, and it might be harder to defrost them. Most people who leave their wipers down believe that putting them up creates more damage by making the springs weaker.
What’s the Right Thing to Do?
This is a difficult question, as different sources have clashing opinions about the whole situation. There are windshield wiper manufacturers that suggest lifting your wiper blades before ice and snow to prevent ice buildup.
On the other hand, some experts suggest leaving your windshield wipers down, as pointing them up could result in damaged wipers and springs.
However, the American Automobile Association states that your springs won’t suffer from any damage even if you leave them up during snow. There is possible damage in case of harsh winds combined with snowy weather, as the wipers could snap.
Honestly, both methods are okay, so weigh up the differences before choosing which option works the best for you.
How to Prevent Windshield Ice?
The windshield and windshield wipers are easily exposed to snow, and you can take preventive measures to keep the ice away. The best thing you could do is park your car in a garage, so it doesn’t get in contact with snow and ice.
Still, not everyone owns a garage, so the next best option is to cover your windshield if parking outside. You could use a large towel, cloth, or tarp to stop the snow from falling directly on the windshield.
Conclusion
Lifting your wipers up in snow has positive sides, but there are also benefits to leaving them down. There’s no right or wrong answer in this situation, so you can follow your gut on what you’re going to do. Both choices are fine, so it’s up to you to decide which one suits you more.
Featured Image Credit: congerdesign, Pixabay
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