9 Privacy Window Treatment Tips & Ideas That Don’t Sacrifice Style

Going With a Basic Roller Shade Is Not Always the Best Option

When choosing the best privacy window treatments, don’t settle or assume the most effective option has to be plain, basic or drab. Nowadays, there are a ton of incredible colors, textures, and patterns that allow your interior design aesthetic and personality to shine.

“Going with a simple white roller shade is not always the best option,” Jones stresses.

If you’re anything like me, you love a space that feels open, airy, and bright. I’m a fan of keeping shades up during the day and letting as much natural sunlight in as possible. Some of my favorite window treatments that balance privacy with natural light and style include Pottery Barn’s Riviera Striped Roman Blackout Shade—perfect for those who need their bedroom to be completely dark while they sleep, and Pottery Barn’s Custom Belgian Linen Dual Roman Light Filtering Shade, which offers privacy, filters natural light, and exudes a seaside retreat vibe thanks to its linen-cotton fabric blend.

Don’t Make Your Window Treatments an Afterthought

One of the biggest errors homeowners make is failing to budget properly or overlooking the wide variety of window dressing options available. Window treatments can be the finishing statement you need to pull an entire room together, so they deserve your time, research, and investment. As with any important design decision in the home, this one absolutely should not be rushed.

“It is possible for the window treatments to be an afterthought and often the desire for function and availability will outweigh the aesthetics,” Jones says.

Test Out Samples in Your Space Before Making the Decision

According to Jones, many home decor and window treatment stores offer free swatches, consults and estimates to ensure you’re making the best design decision for your space before investing. So grab some of your favorites and test them out in the room where they’ll be installed. Pay attention to how each one looks in different lighting throughout the day and whether they mesh well with the vibe you’re trying to achieve.

I’ve previously worked with The Shade Store while perusing options for my own master bedroom. The brand offers the most beautiful selection of fabrics available as free samples, from woven wood shades in the “artisan weaves” collection to white linen blend roman shades. Anything you choose can be customized with a privacy liner.

“For draperies, I use a local custom work room, but I have also had success using Home Depot for shades and shutters or 3 Day Blinds on some projects,” offers Maynard. “In the industry, Hunter Douglas is considered the best brands for window shades.”

Lean on the Pros to Get Things Right

The measuring process can be quite overwhelming—especially if you’re having custom window treatments made. Jones’s recommendation? If you don’t feel confident in your ability to measure your space, just leave the measuring to the pros! Many window treatment companies offer free at-home measuring to take any stress out of the equation.

“If there is an error with the product, then you are not the one responsible to get it corrected. I always appreciate the measure twice rule and encourage having the professionals that will install, confirm dimensions before placing an order,” Jones says.

Consider Where the Treatments Will Be Mounted

Considering the location of your window treatment is key to ensuring it serves its core purpose and functions in the best possible way.

“Mounting will depend on the amount of space you have in your window frame. As new windows are being replaced in older homes, the new windows often take more space in the interior of a frame, meaning sometimes there is not enough depth to mount inside,” Jones explains. “If you mount on the exterior of the window, you need to consider how much space you have around the window and the potential spacing on the sides of a privacy shade.”

On the one hand, an inside mount is positioned inside the window frame and exudes a more custom look for shades. Roller shades that are held down on the sides so that no light can escape are becoming more popular. This option can be beneficial for those who love taking afternoon naps or work night shifts and need to sleep during the day.

“[On the other hand, an] outside mount is used for drapes and is mounted above the window. This can work well if you need blackout or complete darkness with heavy black out lining, and an outside mount drape, you should achieve complete darkness,” Maynard tells us.

Choose a Color That Blends With Your Wall Color

The color of your window treatments should complement your wall color. If your walls are painted a shade of white, for instance, Maynard recommends white shades rather than a color that creates a stark contrast.

“If you use brown shades on a white wall, it will be too bold for the shades; it’s better to blend with the wall and disappear rather than stand out,” Maynard explains. “But if you have a small window in a bathroom or kitchen to add interest to the room, this is a place to add a print to make a statement.”

Choose Bamboo Shades for Texture

If you’re looking for a fun, textured element that coincides with the neutral earth tones in your space, Jones suggests bamboo shades.

“[They] instantly make a space feel more elevated and thoughtfully considered,” she says.

Skeptical about the privacy aspect of bamboo? Rest assured, many come with a built-in privacy liner, or they can be customized with one. And if you find a style you love that’s unlined and can’t be customized, consider them for a living room or kitchen that needs just enough privacy during the daytime while still letting gentle patches of sun to stream through.

Consider Louvered Shutters

Ever since my parents installed louvered shutters in the bathroom of my childhood home—paired with a beautiful floral wallpaper—I’ve been obsessed with the timeless charm plantation shutters bring to a space.

“If your window looks into your neighbor’s yard or home, plantation shutters are great,” says Maynard. “They look classic and provide privacy; you can slightly tilt the lovers up to let in light.”

When completely closed, plantation shutters do an excellent job at blocking out light, and during the day, you can simply open them to let the sunlight in. What I love most about plantation shutters is that they can also be installed on just the bottom half of the window, offering the best of both worlds.

Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches

The decorating process doesn’t end once you choose your window treatments. There are a few essential finishing touches that can pull the entire look together.

One way to enhance privacy shades is to add curtains. According to Jones, this method will make your privacy window treatment “feel more custom and intentional.”

Maynard also recommends installing trim or a valance at the top of the shade, which can help cover the metal headrail and operating mechanism.

“With drapes, select a nice rod—not an inexpensive telescope rod; it looks flimsy and cheap,” she adds.

About the Experts

• Jim Lapic is the Co-Owner of Kestrel Shutters & Doors, which has been around since 1989, serving as a global provider of fine quality interior and exterior shutters and doors.
• Dusti Jones is the Founder & Principal Interior Designer of Dusti J Design, which was recognized by the Interior Design Society (IDS) with a 2025 Designer of the Year award. Jones is also a Certified Color Expert.
• Robbie Maynard, CID, NCIDQ, is an award-winning Interior Designer and the Principal Interior Designer at Robbie Maynard Interiors in San Diego, California. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design and has been in the industry for more than 30 years.

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Why Your Tire Pressure Keeps Fluctuating and What It Could Mean

As a certified ASE and General Motors Master Technician, vocational instructor and consumer, I have almost 60 years working in and around the automotive industry. One item about cars that is always a topic of discussion is tires. Everything from handling and performance, tread design, noise, mileage, braking, vibrations, abnormal wear, damage, of course, to even making repairs. However, in my experience, the main issue drivers have with tires: maintenance, especially why air pressure keeps changing.

With the advent of modern Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and the dreaded Tire Pressure Warning Light, concerns have grown exponentially. Before panicking, let’s read what the experts have to say about why tire air pressure changes and what to look for.

Normal Tire Pressure Fluctuations

Tire pressure fluctuation is nothing out of the ordinary. Changes in temperature are the most common reason air pressure fluctuates. “The air’s response to temperature causes it to expand and contract, and your tires can lose around one pound per square inch (PSI) for every 10 degree drop in temperature, and the reason why drivers get a low tire pressure warning light during the colder months,” said Fang (Bob) Shusheng, Owner and CEO of Nilight, manufacturer of high performance and off-road automotive equipment.

“Air pressure increases as tires warm up while driving and temperatures rise throughout the day,” said Jim DeLeo of  Hunter Engineering. “Conversely, as your tires sit overnight and cool down, air pressure can drop.

“Temperature fluctuations should affect all four tires equally, with pressures normally rising once the tires heat up,” added Shusheng.

Common Causes of Ongoing Fluctuations

Large temperature swings, especially in colder climates, are the most common cause of tire pressure fluctuations. “Cold can cause a tire to contract slightly,” DeLeo added, noting this can reduce a tire’s internal volume, resulting in lower tire pressure until the tires warm back up.

When Fluctuations Are a Problem

While small tire air pressure fluctuations are totally normal and should be expected, other issues to look out for include:

• One tire consistently loses more air pressure than the others, and air pressure drops within days of refilling with air.
• The TPMS light constantly comes on for the same wheel.
• Air pressure drops even when temperatures remain relatively stable

What to Do About It

DeLeo explained, “Always set your tire pressure [first thing in the morning] when the tires are cold.” Use the Tire and Load Information placard—usually located on the driver’s door jamb or owner’s manual—specifications, not the maximum air pressure found on the sidewall. “Check pressures at least one time a month, and more often during the winter,” said DeLeo.

If one or more tires keep losing air pressure, have your tire checked for:

• Punctures from a nail, road debris or even a toothpick (yes, I saw this once!) will cause a tire to keep losing air pressure.
• Wheel bead corrosion from the build-up of water or moisture inside the tire. This is usually caused by poorly installed wheel weights, a bent wheel or tire damage.
• Wheel porosity (usually undetectable by eye) is microscopic fissures triggered from corrosion in an aluminum or composite wheel that causes very slow air pressure loss.
• Tire dry rot from ultraviolet (UV) rays can weaken and crack rubber, resulting in air slowly leaking through tiny fractures commonly found on the sidewall or tread area.
• Valve stem leaks can be checked using a soapy water solution. Never overtighten the valve stem on a Schrader valve, especially in TPMS valve stems.
• Ensure all wheels have valve stem caps installed.
• You can try replacing “air” with nitrogen.

Safety and Fuel Economy Impact

If you’ve ever read my Family Handyman articles, you know that tires, brakes, steering and suspension systems are the most critical safety systems on our cars. Underinflated or overinflated tires have less tread area contacting the pavement. Remember, the part of the tire that touches the road is called the contact patch or footprint and isn’t much larger than the palm of your hand.

That is why maintaining correct tire pressure is vital. ASE and Ford Master Technician Jon Stull said, “Overinflating tires will not stop air pressure loss from temperature changes.”

“Low pressure can not only make tires look deflated, but can affect the way a vehicle drives,” Shusheng added. “They might make steering feel sluggish, increase braking distance and create more rolling resistance, which can contribute to tires wearing out faster.”

Think about the extra effort needed to pedal a bicycle with underinflated tires. The engine having to work harder will use more fuel, lowering fuel economy as well as increasing overall engine wear and tear. “Overinflation reduces traction, causes the tire to become stiff and makes it prone to blowouts. The center tread area wears faster than the rest of the tire tread,” said Shusheng.

In addition, overinflated or underinflated tires negatively affect braking, handling, and cornering, especially on wet or icy roads.

FAQ

Can I drive with the tire pressure warning light on?

Yes, but don’t. “A vehicle’s low air pressure warning light turning on gives drivers an important warning that their tires need immediate attention, and should not be ignored,” said Shusheng. It means a tire is significantly underinflated and you could be on the verge of a flat tire, or worse, a blowout from overheated tires.

As DeLeo explained, “On a really cold night, a considerable drop in PSI isn’t unusual.” That much change can be just enough to turn on the TMPS light, yet as the tires warm up, pressure can increase two to six PSI after 25 minutes of driving, or just enough to turn the TPMS light off. Other reasons the TMPS light comes on include:

• A damaged, corroded or defective TMPS sensor.
• A weak TMPS sensor battery.
• One or more sensors need to be recalibrated after a dead battery.
• Rotating or installing new tires.
• Mismatched tires.
• Worn wheel bearing.

How often should I check my tire pressure?

Avoiding tire problems starts with you, the vehicle driver. Performing these basic maintenance steps including:

• Check tire pressure every month, more often in winter.
• Visually inspect tires once a week.
• Rotate and balance tires and wheels every 5,000 to 8,000 miles and have the pros perform a wheel alignment once a year.

About the Experts

Jon Stull has been an ASE Master Technician for 28 years. (Email correspondence Feb 6, 2026)

Jim DeLeo has been in the automotive repair industry for over 40 years and held positions as an ASE master technician, shop foreman and service manager, and is now Northeast Division Manager for Hunter Engineering Company. (Email correspondence Feb 6, 2026)

Bob Shusheng got his start in business, by selling a variety of products on eBay as well as a variety of products, including Nilight automotive equipment and accessories, to sell on Amazon. As sales of Nilight light bars started taking off, Bob decided to fully expanded the Nilight car and truck accessory parts catalog and starting his own factory so he could control part quality, features and value. (Email correspondence Feb 10, 2026)

Resources

AutoZone: “Why Does Tire Pressure Drop in Cold Weather?” (Feb 2026)

Bridgestone: “What is TPMS and How Does it Work?” (Feb 2026)

Consumer Reports: “Why Does Your Tire Pressure Drop in the Cold?” (Oct 10, 2025)

Kelly Blue Book “What Does ‘TPMS’ Mean on a Car?” (Apr 12, 2024)

RELATED:

• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For?
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For

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Those Tiny Lines in Your Mug Could Be a Hidden Health Risk

I think we all have a bowl or mug like this in our cupboard or pantry. It looks normal on the outside. Inside, though, there are faint lines snaking across the inside like tiny stretch marks or scratches. Turns out, those lines inside your coffee mug may signal a problem called “crazing.”

A recent Reddit post asked about these mysterious markings, and several commenters noticed the distinct crazing pattern. While seeing someone else with a mug like this might make you feel a little better about your favorite coffee drinking vessel, it shouldn’t ease your mind that it’s normal or safe to use. Here, we’ll explain what crazing is, what causes it, and how to prevent it.

What Is Crazing?

Crazing is a pattern of hairline cracks that form in the glazed surface of ceramic drinkware and bowls. Unlike its appearance would indicate, it’s not caused by scratches from spoons or cleaning pads. It’s actually caused by the ceramic expanding or contracting at different rates during heating and cooling. That includes very hot or cold drinks and the cleaning process, either by hand or in a dishwasher.

Sometimes, determining what a scratch is and what is crazing isn’t immediately obvious. However, there are signs to look for.

While scratches usually run in straight or random directions and feel slightly raised, crazing forms a web-like pattern that sits beneath the surface glaze. The lines often appear darker because coffee or tea seeps into the cracks over time.

Also, a food-safe glaze should feel smooth and glass-like. If the interior surface appears dull, uneven or marked with faint intersecting lines, the glaze may have started to craze.

It is worth noting that some decorative pottery intentionally uses a similar look, which is not the same as crazing.

Is Crazing Dangerous?

Yes. The smooth glaze on the mug or bowl provides a protective barrier against moisture and residue from soaking into the ceramic. Once crazing begins, that barrier breaks down, potentially trapping liquid, coffee oils or food particles that regular washing may not fully remove. Bacteria or mold can settle into those tiny cracks.

So, should you throw out a mug with crazing? Most experts recommend retiring heavily crazed items from food or drink use, as it’s simply not worth the risk. You might think you can adequately clean it after each use, but the harmful bacteria might be beyond reach and can pose a health risk.

If the mug holds sentimental value, you don’t have to (immediately) get rid of it. Instead of using it as a drinking or eating utensil, you can repurpose it as planters, a pen or pencil organizers, decor, storage for small items, or something else purposeful.

It’s better to be safe than sorry, even if it is your favorite mug or bowl.

How To Prevent Crazing From Happening Again

Crazing can’t be fixed or reversed, so it’s better to practice safe habits to protect your ceramic items.

With rapid temperature changes posing the biggest risk for crazing, don’t pour boiling liquid into a cold mug or one straight from the cabinet. Also, make sure it’s dishwasher safe before putting it into a machine and don’t use extremely hot water if washing by hand.

While you can’t fix the mugs you already have, replace any cracked items with drinkware that meets modern manufacturing standards. Look for items that are labeled food-safe or lead-free.

Sources

• Biology Insights: “Are Dishes With Crazing Safe to Use?”
• Ceramind Tools: “Common Pottery Defects and How to Prevent Them”

RELATED:

• See a Green Dot on Your Android Phone? Here’s What It Means
• If You Get a USPS Scam Text, You Need To Do This Immediately
• This Is How Often You Should Restart Your Phone

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140,000+ Toyotas Recalled Over Spontaneous Door Openings — Is Yours on the List?

Few things short of engine fires or deadly crashes can scare someone as much as the idea of their car door flying open while the vehicle is in motion. Unfortunately for some Toyota owners, this nightmare is a reality. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently announced that the automotive company is recalling hundreds of thousands of Prius vehicles because of doors opening unexpectedly.

Why Is Toyota Recalling Prius Vehicles?

According to the brief, not all Prius vehicles have safe rear door switches. In the affected vehicles, “water may enter the rear door switch and cause a short circuit, allowing an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly.” The NHTSA warns that “a door that unexpectedly opens while the vehicle is moving increases the risk of injury.”

If you own a Prius, minimize its use as much as you can until you know whether it’s safe. If you need to drive it, keep the rear seats clear of any items or passengers. The last thing you want is your items strewn across the road, or, worse, your passengers in danger of falling out. You should also ensure that your rear doors are locked whenever you’re driving your Prius, at least until you know the repair is finished.

Which Prius Vehicles Are at Risk?

Toyota is recalling over 140,000 vehicles, including the:

• 2023 Prius Prime
• 2024 Prius Prime
• 2023 Prius
• 2024 Prius
• 2025 Prius
• 2026 Prius
• 2025 Prius Plug-in Hybrid
• 2026 Prius Plug-in Hybrid

If you own any of the models listed above, keep an eye on your mailbox. Toyota will mail out letters to impacted owners in mid-March. The NHTSA warns that “this recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 24V274.” It explains that “vehicles repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new remedy performed.” So if you’ve already had this issue fixed, you’re not necessarily in the clear just yet.

How Will Toyota Fix This Problem?

Toyota says that “dealers will modify the rear door switch circuits, free of charge.” If your Prius is affected by this issue, schedule your repair as soon as it’s available to you. Unsecured doors are a nightmare and a tragedy just waiting to happen.

If you have further questions, you can reach Toyota’s customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota’s numbers for this recall are 26TB03 and 26TA03 and the NHTSA number for it is 26V049000.

Source

Unlocked Rear Door May Open Unexpectedly, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2026.

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Is It Illegal to Drive With Snow on Your Car? Here’s the Deal

If you live in a snowy region, you’re probably guilty of this. A big storm rolls in, and the snow and ice buildup on your windshield and roof is massive. Rather than removing all of it, you clear some of the snow so you can see “enough” and go on your way.

Well, you’re not alone. It’s so common, in fact, local law enforcement around the country is reminding drivers NOT to do this. In fact, snow left on a vehicle in some states or cities can actually lead to a ticket.

“Snow left on a vehicle can slide onto your windshield or fly off and strike other cars, creating dangerous conditions on already slick roads,” says the Paterson Police Department in New Jersey. “Obstructed views and covered lights increase the risk of crashes and can lead to enforcement action.”

Learn why it’s illegal, dangerous, and what you can do to stay safe while driving in winter conditions.

When Driving With Snow On Your Car Becomes Illegal

Many drivers focus on the windshield because it’s the biggest nuisance for them while driving, but local law enforcement is concerned with the whole car. Most states have laws or guidance regarding snow on vehicles, with some providing specific guidance on obstructed windshields, covered lights, unsafe equipment, excessive roof buildup, etc.

That’s why local police departments will post reminders to explain safety codes pertinent to that area. Officers often are on the lookout for safety risks when large snow accumulation, restricted visibility, or required safety features are impeded.

AAA’s winter driving guidance regularly points to roof buildup as a common issue that drivers often miss.

Here are the areas you should be clearing off before driving:

Obstructed Windows And Windshields

If snow blocks the windshield or front windows, drivers can get stopped. Officers expect clear glass before the car moves, even after a storm.

Covered Lights, Plates, Or Mirrors

Snow over headlights, brake lights, mirrors, or the plate can also lead to a ticket. Other drivers need to see signals and movement without guessing.

Snow Or Ice That Can Blow Off

Roof snow gets attention because it doesn’t stay put. Once the car picks up speed, it can slide or break loose, creating a hazard for traffic behind it.

Why Fines Can Be Higher Than Expected

You might assume that snow-related tickets are categorized the same as minor equipment violations. However, enforcement sometimes escalates because the risk extends beyond the driver’s own vehicle to other drivers or pedestrians. What does that mean? Higher fines than you’d probably expect.

In many states and cities, fines can start around $50–$100 but quickly climb into the several-hundred-dollar range. If visibility is severely obstructed or a crash occurs, penalties can exceed $500 and sometimes reach $1,000 after fees and surcharges are added. Fines might also be impacted if it’s a repeat offense.

There’s also insurance to think about. If snow or ice accumulation was a contributor to a crash, investigators may treat the situation as “preventable.” Insurance companies notice that and may use that to influence liability decisions.

How Drivers Typically Clear Snow Without Damaging The Vehicle

Most drivers don’t need a complicated routine. Use a plastic scraper on the glass, and a long brush if the roof sits higher than you can reach. Many scrapers will have this attachment on it. With the roof, it’s less important to get every snowflake and more about not having a large pile.

Make sure to clear around the wipers. This will prevent them from sticking and tearing when used. AAA winter guidance often suggests brushing from the roof down so snow doesn’t fall back onto areas that are already clean. Also clear off any buildup around back-up cameras or other safety devices.

Before driving, do a quick walk around of the vehicle to ensure you didn’t miss any areas. While it might not seem important, that last check might find something you overlooked.

Sources

• Lower Windsor Township Police Department CrimeWatch Post, Snow And Ice Removal From Your Vehicles
• AAA: Winter Driving Tips

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You Still Have to Wash Your Car in the Winter, But the Temp Matters — What to Know

One of the perks of the milder winters on California’s West Coast (as compared to the Midwest, where I grew up) is that cars last longer. Snow does fall occasionally, but it seldom accumulates and rarely needs to be cleared or melted. That simplifies winter car care for Californians, but drivers in the North, Midwest and Northeast aren’t so lucky.

Snow isn’t actually the problem, explains Toronto car detailer Parham Koukia: “After a snow or ice storm, road salt, sand and slush stick to every surface of the car. This accelerates paint damage and rust, especially under the car and around the brake lines and suspension parts.”

In my foolhardy youth spent in Ontario, I drove an old Volkswagen Beetle so rusted I could see the road going by under the floorboard. That’s how bad things can get without proper winter car care. Here’s some expert advice on how to prevent something like that.

Why Washing After a Winter Storm Is Important

I consulted multiple detailers and automotive experts about the damage your car sustains when driving in snowy conditions, and Luke Oswald, who deals with scrap vehicles, had this explanation: “Salt and de-icing chemicals stick to the car, especially underneath and around the wheels, and they don’t just disappear once the road looks dry. That residue holds moisture against metal, and that’s how corrosion starts. It often begins out of sight on brake lines, suspension parts, mounting points, and other underbody areas, and by the time you can actually see it, it has often already affected parts that matter for safety checks and inspections — and has likely devalued your car.”

Washing your car directly after a storm is important, but you’ll be picking up more corrosive chemicals as long as the road stays wet. Good winter car care mandates staying on top of the situation by regularly washing the car throughout the winter.

When to Wash Your Car After a Storm

Washing your car about one to three days after a snowstorm is ideal. You obviously need above-freezing temperatures to do the job on your own with a hose or pressure washer, and the temperature should stay warm long enough for the water to evaporate rather than freeze on the vehicle. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, take the car to a commercial car wash.

“You don’t need to wash your car the moment a storm passes,” says Oswald. “In most cases, it’s better to wait until the roads have been cleared and daytime temperatures are above freezing.” You don’t want to wait too long, though, because corrosive deicing chemicals do their damage quickly.

When to Wait Before Washing

Koukia recommends waiting if the temperature stays below 0 degrees C (32°F) for several days and there’s no commercial car wash nearby. “Washing in extreme cold can leave pockets of water in crevices that freeze and cause stuck doors, frozen locks, or stress cracks.”

Which Parts of the Car Need the Most Attention?

The underside of the car matters more than anything else. This is where salt and grime collect and where corrosion usually starts. Brake lines, suspension parts, exhaust components and mounting points are all exposed and rarely cleaned by rain alone, says Oswald. “From what I see, when cars reach the end of their usable life, rust in these areas is one of the most common reasons vehicles are valued down, and the cost of repair outweighs the value of the car.”

Oswald identifies wheel arches as another problem area. Salt and grit are constantly thrown up by the tires and tend to sit there, especially after storms. Over time, that buildup spreads from the arches to nearby panels and seams. “Wheels themselves also take a hit, as brake dust and salt combine and can damage finishes, particularly on alloy wheels.”

Tips to Prevent Damage

If you live in a snowy location, these winter car care tips can help prolong the life of your car and ensure a safe ride:

• Wash your car regularly, not just after a storm. In winter, your wheels tend to kick up deicing chemicals whenever you drive over a wet patch of road.
• Wash even more frequently if you regularly make short trips. “Cars used mainly for short winter journeys don’t get warm enough for moisture to evaporate,” says Oswald. “Especially underneath.”
• Pay special attention to the seams and edges where body panels meet, around bolt heads and along door seams. These areas trap salty water and are the last to dry.
• Be sure to wash packed snow and ice from wheel arches and suspension parts. It can keep the metal damp for days.

“Finally,” says Oswald, “if something starts sticking, squeaking, or feeling different after winter driving, don’t ignore it. These are often early signs of salt buildup, and addressing them early can prevent corrosion from spreading and turning into a costly repair down the line.”

FAQ

How often should you wash your car in winter?

Kouki recommends about once a week if you drive every day on salted roads. You can reduce the frequency to every one or two weeks if you drive less frequently or you have mild winters, he says.

Will washing my car in winter cause rust?

No, that’s a myth, says Oswald. Kouki agrees. “Washing actually prevents rust by removing corrosive salt. The risk of rusting comes when moisture is left to freeze in mechanical areas because of poor drying.”

About the Experts

• Luke Oswald is an automotive specialist at Wheels Away, an online car-buying service for scrap, junk, and end-of-life vehicles. His work give him first-hand insight into the most common mechanical, safety, and roadworthiness issues that cause cars to become unsafe or uneconomical to keep on the road.
• Parham Koukia has been in the auto detailing business for nearly 15 years. He is the Lead Detailer and Operations Manager at Toronto-based Panda Hub.

Related

• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For?
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For

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If You See an Extension Cord Coming Out of a Car’s Hood, Here’s What It Means

I worked for the number one Oldsmobile dealer in the U.S. for 15 years. During that time, I witnessed one of the greatest mistakes in the long history of great mistakes: the conversion of a perfectly good Oldsmobile 350 cubic inch naturally aspirated (carbureted) engine to a diesel engine. Since diesels and cold weather do not play well together, every one of those cars had a block heater.

On days when temperatures were below freezing, there would be dozens of extension cords running out of the shop. They were all plugged into block heaters, trying to warm up the cars because the fuel or motor oil had congealed and wouldn’t start.

Read along as we discuss block heaters, their benefits, functions and problems.

What Is a Block Heater?

A block heater is an electrical device with a built-in heating element that warms an engine’s oil or coolant before first starting in cold weather. The block heater warms up either the coolant, motor oil or the engine’s metal block. This lets the engine reach operating temperature faster.

Fluids that are already warm flow faster and more easily, helping reduce engine wear and tear, improve cold-start performance (especially in diesel-powered cars), reduce tailpipe emissions, and heat the passenger compartment more quickly.

How Block Heaters Work

Frigid temperatures weaken batteries, but they also affect other automotive systems that can keep an engine from starting. Plugging a block heater into an ordinary 120-volt outlet completes a resistive-heating-element circuit.

“The block heater heating element either warms the metal around it, which then warms the fluids, or the heating element is in direct contact with engine coolant or motor oil, warming up the fluids,” ASE and General Motors Master Technician Alvin Bud Mangin explains. “In freezing temperatures, oil thickens at the same time batteries lose cranking power. Warm coolant and engine oil circulate better, and the engine will crank more easily.”

Bud compared it to starting your boat motor after it sat all winter versus during the middle of summer on a warm sunny day.

Types of Block Heaters in freezing temperatures

There are numerous types of engine block heaters. Most can be installed by a DIYer, but leave it to the pros if you’re installing freeze plug (core plug) block heaters.

• Freeze plug block heaters are the most effective type and are installed in place of a freeze plug, heating coolant from inside the block.
  • Pro Tip: One of the great automotive myths is that as water or coolant in an engine freezes and expands, the freeze plugs pop out to keep the block from cracking. Here’s the truth: the holes in the engine block are there to remove sand after an engine block has been cast. Freeze or core plugs simply seal the hole.
• Oil pan heaters attach to metal oil pans with magnets or to composite (plastic) oil pans with self-stick adhesive pads. In addition to improved lubrication at startup, warmer oil reduces idling time, thereby increasing fuel efficiency.
• In-line coolant heaters are usually inserted into a heater hose. They heat up quickly and may use a small pump to circulate warm coolant through the engine.
• Dipstick heaters are the least effective block heaters, but are easy to install. They replace an engine’s oil dipstick, warming the engine oil.
• Battery warmers, while not exactly a block heater, can be used with or without a block heater to keep your battery warm, delivering greater cranking power during severe cold weather.

Benefits of Using a Block Heater

Mangin also noted that warmer fluids on cold wintery days provide several advantages, including:

• Less strain on the starter, battery, and internal engine components.
• Reduced engine wear by oil immediately lubricating and protecting bearings and cylinder walls.
• The engine reaches peak operating efficiency faster, reducing fuel consumption and lowering emissions.
• Heater and windshield defroster deliver warm air much sooner.

When Are Block Heaters Necessary?

Block heaters were primarily designed for climates where winter temperatures regularly drop below 0 degrees F. Manufacturers such as Ford, General Motors, Toyota and Subaru recommend plugging in a block heater around 5 degrees F.

Although newer diesels are less problematic in cold weather than diesel engines of a decade ago, a block heater is definitely warranted. “Consider using a block heater if your battery or car is a little older and you’re trying to increase battery life and reduce engine strain,” says ASE and Toyota Master Technician Joe Simes… or if you just want to get into a toasty car on a frigid morning.

FAQ

How long should I leave a block heater plugged in?

“Most engines [block heaters] only need to be plugged in two to four hours,” Simes explains. “After a few hours, temperatures across the entire engine gradually warm and stabilize.”

Simes recommends using an outdoor-rated timer to automatically turn the block heater off to help save energy.

Is it safe to leave a block heater plugged in overnight?

Yes, but it’s not necessary. “Block heaters are designed to run safely for extended periods,” says Simes, adding that “it’s important to apply common sense when working with anything electrical.” This includes:

• Use the correct wire size/gauge, an outdoor-rated extension cord and a rated circuit/outlet for your specific block heater.
• Keep all plugs and connections off the ground and away from water or puddles.
• Never use damaged, frayed or repaired cords.
• Make sure the outlet and extension cord are protected from the weather. Remember, even in freezing temperatures, the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays can damage electrical cord coverings.

“Block heaters are excellent for preheating the engine and its fluids before starting on cold mornings,” says Simes. “As a firefighter, I have seen car fires from lack of proper [block heater] maintenance.”

Experts

Bud Mangin has over 50 years of experience in the automotive industry as a master technician, shop foreman, service manager and service director. During our interview, he recalled how we had to replace block heaters in dozens of Oldsmobile diesel engines.

Joe Simes has over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry as an ASE and Toyota Master Technician, a Pennsylvania Department of Education certified automotive technology instructor, as well as a PA certified emissions and safety inspection instructor and inspector. He is currently an automotive technology instructor at North Montco Technical Career Center in Lansdale, PA. Joe was also the former deputy fire chief and training officer for Montgomery County, PA (retired).

Resources

• AutoZone: “What Are Engine Block Heaters?”
• Canada Drives: “Does My Car Need a Block Heater During Winter?” 
• Engineering Fix: “What Is a Block Heater in a Car and How Does It Work?”
• U.S. Department of Transportation, NHTSA: “Engine Block Heater”

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