Winter in Alberta means gearing up for some seriously cold weather. Part of getting your vehicle ready for the cold weather is making sure you've got the right windshield wiper fluid. This might seem like a small detail, but it's super important for safe winter driving.
In this guide, we'll break down why choosing the right wiper fluid is crucial when the temperature drops and give you tips on picking the best one for your car to handle Calgary's unique winter challenges.
What Makes Winter Fluid Different?
The biggest difference between regular and winter wiper fluids is how well they work in the cold. Winter wiper fluids have special ingredients like methanol, ethanol, or ethylene glycol. These ingredients help keep the fluid from freezing, even when it's really cold outside. This means your wiper fluid will still work well, even in temperatures way below freezing, without turning into ice on your windshield or in the reservoir tank.
Regular fluids, on the other hand, can freeze once it gets colder than 0°C, and that could end up damaging your wiper system. Winter fluids are made to handle the cold much better, staying effective in temperatures as low as -30°C or even colder.
Keeping Your View Clear in Winter
Winter driving means dealing with ice, snow, and road salt - all of which can make it hard to see through your windshield. Regular wiper fluid can freeze on your windshield, blocking your view and leading to dangerous driving conditions. Wiper fluids made for winter don’t freeze and do a great job of cleaning off all that winter grime and salt.
Picking the Right Wiper Fluid for Cold Weather
It’s best to choose your wiper fluid based on the severity of winter in your area. In regions with mild winters, a fluid with a moderate freezing point might do the trick. However, in areas like Calgary, where temperatures can plummet, you need a fluid with a much lower freezing point. Before buying any windshield wiper fluid, always check the label to see how well the fluid can handle the cold.
Tips for Maximum Efficiency
Getting the most out of your winter wiper fluid isn't just about picking the right kind. Here are some easy tips to make sure it works at its best:
- Check Your Wiper Blades: Make sure your wipers are in top shape, with no cracks or stiffness, so they can sweep across your entire windshield properly.
- Don't Mix Different Fluids: Stick to one type of windshield wiper fluid at a time. Mixing different kinds can reduce effectiveness.
- Top Up Your Fluid Regularly: Winter usually means using more wiper fluid, so keep an eye on the level and top it up when it gets low.
These simple steps will help you keep your windshield clear and your view unobstructed all winter.
Stay Safe When Handling Winter Fluids
Winter-ready wiper fluids are excellent at keeping windshields clear in sub-zero temperatures. However, they do contain chemicals that can be toxic. Methanol, for example, is harmful if swallowed. Keep these fluids in a safe place and throw them away properly to protect the environment while also keeping kids and pets safe.
DIY Refills vs. Professional Service
Adding more wiper fluid to your car is usually easy to do on your own. But if you’re not up for it, or if you want to make sure it’s done right, getting help from a pro is a good idea. The experts at Mint Auto can fill it up for you and also check for any issues with your wiper system.
Choosing the right winter wiper fluid is a simple yet crucial part of preparing your vehicle for safe winter driving. By selecting a fluid well-suited to Alberta’s harsh winters, you can maintain clear visibility through the toughest road conditions. Remember, clear vision is key to winter driving safety.
Schedule Your Winter Wiper Fluid Check at Mint Auto Service
Ready to tackle the winter roads? Selecting the right winter wiper fluid is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of preparing your vehicle for the cold season. At Mint Auto, we're dedicated to helping you maintain optimal visibility and vehicle health throughout the winter. Trust our experts to ensure your car is winter-ready with the best wiper fluid for your needs.
Book your winter wiper fluid check and refill at any of our Calgary locations:
Bowness | Westbrook | Southeast