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The practice of lifting windscreen wipers off the glass is a common sight, particularly in residential neighbourhoods
While many believe this action helps to preserve the longevity of the wipers, it raises the question of whether it actually serves any practical purpose.
Here are some reasons why some people would want to lift their wipers:
1. Lifting your wiper blades protects them from heat
Windscreen wiper blades are typically made from rubber, a material that is vulnerable to degradation from prolonged exposure to heat and UV radiation. When wipers are left in direct contact with a hot windscreen, the rubber can soften and deform.
2. Raising the wipers could also relieve pressure off the blades
Over time, with prolonged exposure to a hot, curved windshield, the wiper blades can warp, leading to poor contact and ineffective wiping during rain. Lifting them might help the blades maintain their shape.
Therefore, it's possible to extend your wiper blades' lifespan by lifting them while parked.
Here are some reasons why you may not need to raise your wiper blades as commonly believed:
1. Higher potential for damage
As with anywhere else, the wiper arm mechanism is not designed to be left in the upright position for extended periods. The springs that hold the wiper against the glass can become stretched or weakened, reducing the pressure on the windshield and leading to poor wiping performance.
2. A raised wiper arm is more exposed
Raised wipers are more exposed and can be easily damaged by a strong gust of wind, a careless person walking by, or even an act of vandalism. In some areas, they might also be a target for opportunistic theft.
3. It's also a hassle that may invite more problems than it saves
For many drivers, the perceived benefit of a slightly longer wiper life is not worth the risk of damage or the daily inconvenience of lifting and lowering the wipers.
Modern wiper blades, especially silicone ones, are designed to withstand high temperatures and UV radiation.
So, should you lift your wipers?
While the practice of lifting wipers is common among some drivers in Malaysia to combat the heat, it's not a universal recommendation. The risk of damaging the wiper arm mechanism or having them broken by accident may outweigh the potential benefit of slightly extending the life of the wiper blades.
Ultimately, whether you lift your wipers is a personal choice. However, considering the potential for damage to the wiper arms and the relatively low cost of replacing wiper blades, leaving them in the down position is generally the safest and most convenient option.
