I’m a NASA engineer who sends space ships into -270C – defrosting car windscreens is easy but my method is ‘unexpected’
AN Ex-NASA engineer who used to send up space ships into -270C has said that his “unexpected” method makes defrosting car windscreens easy.
The UK has been hit with freezing cold temperatures in recent days and it’s leaving cars frosty in the morning.
But there is a quick way to deal with this icy problem.
Motor experts at Eden Tyres and Servicing have shared a tip from former Nasa engineer Mark Rober that will speed things up in the morning.
It involved four simple steps that tackle frost and humidity in the car.
Mark Rober conducted the test to help solve the issue many motorists find on a cold morning.
“Here is the best way to defrost your windscreen according to a Nasa engineer”, the woman in the video said.
The expert went on to explain that an “unexpected” method that will help get rid of any humidity in your car – and it’s slightly opening your windows.
Your goal is to make the air inside the car warm and dry so that any water vapor can hang in the air, rather than clinging to the glass.
She explained that this exchanges the hot and humid air for dry air outside, resulting in a “nice defrosted windscreen.”
Firstly, Rober advises drivers to turn the car’s heater on maximum heat and on full blast as warmer air means more water can be held in the air.
Secondly, turning the air conditioning on gets air circulating and pulls the moisture out of the air as it passes over the cold coils in the unit.
Thirdly, make sure the inside air circulation is off (that’s the button with an arrow inside a car on it) so the cold outside air doesn’t get into the car.
Finally, open your windows at the start for a little bit to exchange the warm wet air inside the car with some colder and hopefully drier air outside the car.
Deciding to open your windows will depend on what the weather is like outside the car as it could be raining.
In the comments, someone also suggested to: “Put your sun visors down as it traps more of the hot air against the screen”.
While another said: “Wake up a little earlier, start your car, turn the heat up, and the defrost buttons, should be defrosted in 10-15 minutes.”
In the cold winter months, the AA has also encouraged road users to “turn on the warm air blower” and “heated mirrors” to clear frost cover quickly and safely.
They explained: “Start the engine and turn on the warm air blower on the windscreen. Switch on the rear windscreen heater and heated mirrors, if you have them.
“Turn on the air-con. It’s not just for summer – it’ll remove moisture from the air to stop the car from misting up.
“Don’t use your hands to wipe misted-up windows – you’ll leave greasy smears and a diamond ring could scratch the glass. Use a lint-free absorbent cloth if necessary. Stay with your car the whole time while the engine’s running.”