What's the Best Type of Windshield Wipers?
Winter, Silicone, Shaker, Standard or Heated Wiper Blades
Sep 2, 2009
There are plenty of different varieties of wiper blades to choice from. There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right wiper blade. One of the first considerations is the geographical location.
If the vehicle is driven in relatively mild climates like the Southern U.S., often a standard wiper blade is sufficient. If the vehicle is driven in more extreme whether conditions like the Northern U.S. or Canada, a specialty blade for snow and/or ice might be a consideration.
Winter Windshield Wiper Blades
Preparing the car for extreme winter weather, the standard wiper blade should at least be replaced with a winter wiper blade. Winter wiper blades are made specifically to handle snow on the windshield. A good winter wiper blade should be able to handle up to moderate snowfall with good visibility. A standard winter blade is fairly inexpensive. Here’s a list of the things to look for in a good winter wiper blade.
- Made of heavy gauge steel to help resist severe weather conditions
- Tough rubber boot type blade surface
- Easy installation and removal
- Prevents snow and ice from accumulating
Silicone Windshield Wiper Blades
Silicone wiper blades are basically the same as standard wiper blades. The main difference is that the wiping surface of the blade is made of silicone instead of rubber.
Silicone wiper blades will give the driver better vision quality and the blade surface will usually last longer than rubber. Some manufacturers of silicone wiper blades feel so confident about silicone wipers durability they’re willing to back the blade with a lifetime warranty.
Shaker Windshield Wiper Blades
The shaker wiper blade actually vibrates while wiping the windshield. This technology of a vibrating wiper blade helps to dislodges snow and ice that accumulates under the wiper blade. Besides snow, the shaker wiper blade also dislodges other debris that could accumulate on the windshield.
The shaker wiper blade will provide superior visibility to the standard winter blade in extreme winter conditions. Naturally they are more expensive than standard winter blades, not to mention installation.
Heated Winter Windshield Wiper Blades
Heated wiper blades actually have a heating element inside of the rubber of the wiper blade. The heated wiper blades work by melting the snow and ice from the windshield, giving the drive superior vision over the standard wiper blade. A switch is used to activate the heating element of the wiper blade. If the higher price of the blades, plus installation isn’t a concern, heated wiper blades are a good choice for superior vision over standard winter wiper blades.
Whether driving in mild or server weather conditions, wiper blades should be inspected as part of a routine vehicle maintenance regiment. Use a windshield washer solution that will not freeze. Always insure that the windshield is free of oil and other contaminants for the best visibility in extreme weather conditions. These simple steps will help to insure a safer driving experience.
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