High-performance windshield washer fluid – but with less methanol
Safety-Kleen's windshield washer fluid performs like conventional windshield washer fluids in icy weather and snowy conditions, yet it contains a secret perk. Our formula contains far less methanol, creating a safer environment for auto workers. To further protect the environment, our product is concentrated so it reduces the hassles (and hazards) of using gallon jugs. Plus, our formula contains a bittering agent to prevent accidental ingestion by animals and children. We adhere to a stringent product dilution table to ensure your shop – or wherever you store windshield washer fluid – is compliant. Additionally, the label contains dilution instructions in order to meet higher state VOC restrictions/clean air regulations.
As you browse our windshield fluid selection, look for these features to ensure the safety of your equipment:
- Concentrated formula
- Less methanol
- VOC compliance
- Non-flammable freeze protection (-11ºF)
We also carry a variety of other lubricants and fluids to keep your vehicles operating optimally:
- Antifreeze
- Greases
- Motor oils
- Driveline fluids
- Gear oils
This automotive windshield washer fluid is suitable for winter and summer blends, with non-flammable freeze protection to -11ºF. Pre-mixed, the label offers dilution instructions for locations/states with VOC compliance restrictions. This product is not for sale or use in AZ, CA, GA, OR and TX. Wear safety glasses and skin/glove protection when spills and splashes are likely.
Our Windshield washer fluid is available in 5-gallon pails .
Why do I need Windshield fluid?
Windshield washer fluid is essential for maintaining visibility and safe driving. Here are the key reasons why it’s important:
- Clearing Dirt and Debris: Windshield washer fluid helps remove dirt, grime, bird droppings, and other debris that can accumulate on your windshield. This ensures that you have a clear view of the road and surrounding environment.
- Improving Visibility: Regular use of windshield washer fluid helps keep your windshield clean, which is crucial for visibility, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog. Clean glass improves your ability to see other vehicles, road signs, and potential hazards.
- Removing Streaks and Smudges: The fluid often contains ingredients that help break down and remove smudges and streaks left behind by wipers, making it easier for your wipers to clear your windshield effectively.
- Preventing Ice Buildup: In colder climates, windshield washer fluid is formulated with antifreeze agents that help prevent the washer fluid from freezing in the reservoir or on the windshield. This ensures that the system remains functional even in freezing temperatures.
- Maintaining Wiper Function: Washer fluid helps to lubricate the windshield, reducing friction between the wipers and the glass. This can help prevent wear and tear on your wiper blades, extending their lifespan.
- Safety: A clean windshield is critical for safe driving. Obstructed or dirty windshields can impair your vision and increase the risk of accidents.
Why is Windshield fluid diluted?
Dilution helps achieve a balance between cost, performance, and functionality, ensuring that the windshield washer fluid effectively cleans the windshield and operates well in different weather conditions.
- Optimal Cleaning Performance: The dilution of windshield washer fluid with water helps create a solution that is effective at cleaning the windshield without being overly concentrated. The balance ensures that the fluid can effectively remove dirt, grime, and other residues while avoiding excessive residue buildup or potential damage to the windshield.
- Cost Efficiency: Concentrated washer fluid is more expensive than water. By diluting it with water, you reduce the cost of the fluid while still benefiting from its cleaning properties. It makes it more economical to use and refill.
- Prevents Freezing: In colder climates, windshield washer fluid is often diluted to lower the freezing point of the mixture. This helps to ensure that the fluid remains liquid and functional in freezing temperatures, preventing it from solidifying in the reservoir or on the windshield.
- Improves Flow and Function: A diluted solution helps ensure that the fluid flows smoothly through the washer system and is effectively sprayed onto the windshield. Too concentrated a solution might clog the system or reduce the spray’s effectiveness.
- Additive Effectiveness: Windshield washer fluids typically contain various additives, including detergents, surfactants, and anti-freeze agents. Dilution helps these additives work in the right proportions to clean the windshield effectively and avoid potential buildup or residue.
What is VOC-compliant windshield fluid?
VOC-compliant windshield washer fluid is designed to meet regulations and standards related to Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs are organic chemicals that can evaporate into the air and contribute to air pollution, smog, and health issues. Here's a breakdown of what VOC-compliant windshield fluid entails:
- Reduced Emissions: VOC-compliant fluids are formulated to minimize the release of volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere. This helps reduce environmental pollution and the potential for smog formation.
- Health and Safety: By limiting VOC content, these fluids also aim to reduce potential health risks associated with inhaling volatile chemicals, such as respiratory issues or irritation.
- Regulatory Compliance: VOC-compliant windshield washer fluids adhere to environmental regulations and standards set by governmental agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States or similar bodies in other countries. These regulations are designed to ensure that automotive products are less harmful to both the environment and public health.
- Formulation: To achieve VOC compliance, manufacturers often use alternative solvents and additives that have lower vapor pressures compared to traditional solvents. These alternatives are designed to perform similarly in terms of cleaning effectiveness and temperature resistance.
- Performance: VOC-compliant fluids are engineered to provide effective cleaning and protection for the windshield, just like traditional fluids, but with a focus on lower environmental impact.