How To Choose The Right Wiper Blade
Wear and tear of wiper blades are not only noisy, the dirt embedded within it could damage your windshield. By the time you notice this, your wiper blades could leave fine scratches on your windshield. Think it’s time to replace your wiper blades? With so many on the market, how do you decide which one is right for you? Apart from knowing the perfect fit for your car, here is a quick guide to selecting an effective wiper blade.
#1. Does it have an aerodynamic design?
A streamlined, beam wiper blade is a favorite for its sleek design. Apart from its appearance, the science behind an aerodynamic design enables it to reduce drag. It noiselessly removes water while applying symmetrical pressure along the wiper blade.
#2. Does it fit the curvature of the windshield?
For an efficient clean, the rubber squeegee at the edge of the wiper blade should be in full contact with the windshield. Water sweeps off easily and quickly for better visibility in the rain.
#3. Is it durable?
The weather can accelerate wear and tear in your wiper blades. It spoils the rubber squeegee, making it less effective in removing water. To ensure that it is durable and lasts longer, select a windshield wiper blade that is UV and heat resistant.
What to look out for in your old Wiper Blades
We all know the tell tale sound of a screeching wiper that's overdue a replacement – it's usually accompanied by a screen that won't clear properly, leaving smears, or un-wiped areas of glass.
But before you rush out and buy a new set (unless yours are visibly split or damaged) give them a good clean! You'll be surprised at how much dirt comes off them.
Other than that the only issue you're likely to face involves buying wipers that won't fit your car! Thankfully most 'universal' kits come with a wide variety of fixings so it's a case of choosing the fixings that most resemble the ones currently fitted.
One final thing to be mindful of is that when you've removed the blade carefully lower the arm back onto the windscreen – if you don't, and you accidentally knock it, the spring action can make it hit the screen with sufficient force to break it!
Chattering
Vertical marks across your windshield is a timely reminder to check the rubber edge along the wiper blade and its steel frame. Dry edge or a rusty frame could cause your wiper blades to skip, leaving scratch marks.
Streaking
Debris, dirt and twigs caught within the rubber edge of the wiper blade could result in streaks.
Splitting
Extensive exposure to harmful UV rays could cause your wiper blades to split, making it less effective in wiping rain off your windshield.
Squeaking
Squeaking wiper blades are a sign that the rubber edge is losing its elasticity. It would be less efficient in sweeping water off your windshield during rainy weather.
Smearing
Due to age and physical damage, certain areas remain unwiped as it lose its form and original characteristics.
How to extend the life of your wiper blades
Wipers have a shelf life but by keeping them clean you can extend their life – Whenever you clean your car take the time to clean your windows, and the wiper blades.
Use a good quality glass cleaner and get all traces of dirt and grit from the wiper blades.
Some people recommend applying a thin coating of silicone spray can also extend their life as it 'conditions' the rubber, preventing it from ageing, and becoming brittle. But be aware that too much silicone can cause smearing, and leave a residue that can be difficult to remove.
We recommend you to replace them to prevent any risk.
How long does conventional wiper blades last?
You should expect conventional wipers to last for 1-2 years, but many people have blades that are considerably older, although often these are well past their effective working conditions.
As soon as you stop clearing the screen correctly (and it is not just rectifying by giving them a good clean), Replace them!