![washer fluid washer fluid](https://summitindsales.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/056438152156_ca.jpg)
Its main drawbacks are its lack of cleaning solvents and detergents and that it freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, rendering the windshield-washing system on your vehicle useless during cold weather. The main benefits of water are that it’s cheaper than windshield washer fluid and more compatible with the environment. The ingredients in washer fluid work together to give you a clean, streak-free windshield no matter how cold it is outside. Many also contain small amounts of ethanol or antifreeze made from methylated spirits to keep the product from freezing during the winter months. Most products are made of methanol and other alcohols like ethylene glycol. Windshield washer fluid contains ingredients that are meant to clean up those stubborn messes. If you live in a place where the temperature never gets down to freezing, you might be able to get by with plain water - but even then, water doesn’t have the cleaning power of specialized cleaning fluid for removing bugs, bird droppings, road grime and other crud that collects on windshields. Related: More Maintenance Coverage Windshield Washer Fluid Versus Plain Water
![washer fluid washer fluid](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81a%2B4sgHSUL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Is plain water an acceptable substitute for windshield washer fluid, though? Water is readily available almost anywhere, and topping off your reservoir with it would save you from needing to make a trip to the store. Clean up radiator spills or leaks immediately.įor more information, call your poison center at - If you have ever run out of windshield washer fluid when you didn’t have any more on hand, you may have wondered whether you really need special fluid or if you could just use plain water instead.Keep products in the original containers.Prevent antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid poisoning: Also, animals sometimes drink antifreeze that spills or leaks out of radiators. Many children, and adults, accidentally drink antifreeze or windshield wiper fluid when it is stored in drink containers. Possible effects of antifreeze/coolant or windshield wiper fluid poisoning: You may not notice ill effects for several hours or longer. If an antifreeze or windshield wiper poisoning occurs, DO NOT “wait and see” if a person or pet will have a problem. Propylene glycol, found in some cosmetics, inks, room deodorants and food preservative, is not very toxic. Be aware that other products such as brake fluids and de-icing products may also contain methanol or ethylene glycol.įortunately, not all “glycols” are a problem.
![washer fluid washer fluid](https://bimmertips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/IMG_1994.jpg)
Even smaller amounts of methanol, one teaspoon, can cause blindness or death. As little as one tablespoon of ethylene glycol can cause kidney failure or death. Windshield wiper fluid usually contains methanol. Both can cause serious effects if swallowed, even in small amounts.Īntifreeze usually contains ethylene glycol. Windshield wiper fluid improves visibility in cold and stormy weather by melting ice and cleaning the windshield. Antifreeze, sometimes labeled “antifreeze/coolant,” keeps the engine from freezing in the winter and overheating in the summer. Although antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid improve driving safety, both are poisons.