How to Deal with Fog on the Outside of Car Windows When the Air Conditioning is On?
2 Answers
When fog forms on car windows due to air conditioning, you can remove it by opening windows for convection, using the air conditioning system, or applying defogging agents. Window Convection: If the fog inside the car is not too heavy, you can slightly open the side windows to create airflow between the inside and outside of the car. This reduces the temperature difference, and the fog will gradually disappear. The principle of this method is the same as using the air conditioning's cold air, but it doesn't increase fuel consumption. However, the downside of window convection is quite obvious—it's not suitable during rain, snow, on highways, or when the fog is heavy. Additionally, opening windows can lower the temperature inside the car. Air Conditioning System: Using the air conditioning system to remove fog is the most common method. Almost all cars today have air vents below the front windshield. Simply adjust the air conditioning to the appropriate setting, and the airflow will help clear the fog. If you're in a hurry, you can use cold air as an emergency measure. However, in most cases, it's recommended to use warm air. Turn on the car's fan and cooling switch, and the cold air will quickly eliminate the fog on the front windshield, providing immediate results. The main drawback of this method is that passengers inside the car may feel cold. Defogging Agents: Spray a defogging agent on the inner surface of the car window and wipe it clean. This not only removes dirt from the glass but also forms a protective film to prevent moisture from condensing into fog. One application can last about ten days. Prices range from a few dollars to over a hundred. You can also make your own defogging solution. The simplest method is to mix dish soap with water in a 1:10 ratio. Then, use a clean, soft cloth to apply it to the inside of the front and rear windshields, or pour it into a small spray bottle for easy use.
I used to frequently encounter situations where the windows fogged up while driving with the air conditioning on. This mainly happens because the temperature difference between the cold air inside the car and the warm, humid air outside is too large, causing condensation and fogging on the exterior glass. I would immediately turn on the windshield wipers to clear the fog, which works well. If the wipers don't help, I slightly increase the air conditioning temperature to bring the interior temperature closer to the outside, reducing the temperature difference. Alternatively, switching to the external circulation mode to introduce fresh air can reduce humidity buildup. Preheating the vehicle in cold weather can also prevent this issue. Remember, safety first—don't get distracted while driving; adjust settings only at traffic lights. These practices have made my driving smoother, especially during rainy and high-humidity seasons. Regularly cleaning the windows can also prevent fog buildup.
