How to Remove Fog from Car Windows?
2 Answers
Press the defog button, turn on the air conditioning (A/C) switch, set the temperature to the lowest, and turn on the external circulation to remove fog. You can use either cold or warm air to defog car windows, but warm air works slower than cold air. The most effective method is using cold air, which blows dry cold air directly onto the glass, preventing water vapor from condensing on the glass and achieving the purpose of defogging. The method for defogging with warm air is the same as with cold air, but it's important to note that warm air should not be used for defogging on rainy days, as it can initially worsen the fog. Always use external circulation when defogging car windows. The reason for car window fogging: There is a certain temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car. If the temperatures inside and outside the car are different, the side with the lower temperature will have a surface water vapor saturation pressure lower than the surrounding environment's vapor pressure, causing water vapor to gather on the glass surface and form tiny water droplets, resulting in fog. Methods to defog car windows: Air Conditioning Cooling: Use the air conditioning's cooling and dehumidifying function to reduce air humidity and remove fog. In summer, especially when multiple people enter the car and the air conditioning is not turned on promptly, the high humidity of exhaled air can quickly cause the windshield to fog up. In this case, turn on the air conditioning to blow cold air onto the windshield, using the dehumidifying function to remove the fog quickly. If the humidity is too high and the air conditioning is not effective, slightly open the windows to rapidly reduce the humidity inside the cabin. Combining this with the air conditioning can speed up the process. Air Conditioning Heating: Use the method of reducing the temperature difference to remove fog. In winter, use warm air to blow hot air onto the glass, quickly raising the temperature of the front glass and reducing the temperature difference between the inner and outer surfaces of the window. This can prevent excessive fogging on the windshield. However, it should be noted that the rear and side windows heat up more slowly, so it takes longer to remove all the fog. Whether the air conditioning is automatic or manual, turning it on helps with dehumidification. Avoid setting the air conditioning temperature to the coldest position, as this can cause frost to form on the outer surface of the windshield over time. Applying Anti-Fog Spray for Prevention: Spray a small amount of defogging agent on the car windows and wipe it clean to remove dirt and stains. While polishing the glass, a thin transparent protective film forms on the surface, effectively preventing water vapor from condensing and forming fog. This is especially useful in cold winters. Alternatives to defogging agents include dish soap, soapy water, glycerin, alcohol, or saline solution. After applying, let it dry and then wipe off excess residue with chamois or a soft dry cloth. This can keep the windows fog-free for several days. Opening Windows for Airflow: If the fog inside the car is not too heavy, you can open the windows on both sides to create airflow between the inside and outside of the car, reducing the temperature difference and gradually eliminating the fog. The principle of this method is the same as using cold air from the air conditioning. However, the downside of opening windows is obvious: it cannot be used during rain, snow, on highways, or when the fog is heavy. Rear Window Heating: Most cars have a rear window electric heating function, though the button location may vary. The function is the same. Turn on the rear window heating switch, and the fog on the rear window will disappear in about a minute.
I've encountered sudden fogging while driving many times. The most straightforward solution is to turn on the air conditioning for defogging. Increase the fan speed, direct the vents toward the windshield, and choose cold air for quick results (though it's chilly in winter), or warm air which takes a bit longer but removes fog more thoroughly. The key is to press the front defogger button (the one with the fan-shaped symbol) and turn on the AC switch to let the air conditioner dehumidify – this will quickly eliminate water droplets on the glass. Remember to use the external air circulation to let fresh air in, otherwise the exhaled moisture inside the car will cause fog to reappear. For prevention, spraying anti-fog products or wiping the interior glass with soapy water can keep fog away for several days. Also, shaking your umbrella dry before entering the car and avoiding leaving wet clothes inside can help during rainy days.
