If you've ever been caught in heavy rain, a snowstorm, or tried to see through a dusty windshield on a hot day, you know the importance of having a clean windshield while driving. In these moments, we all count on wiper blades to maintain visibility.

But do you know the performance of your wipers is not just about their design or your vehicle's make? It's also influenced by the climate you drive in. Understanding this impact is crucial for your driving comfort and safety.

Hot Climates

In scorching weather, the rubber on the blades can become hard and brittle. It loses flexibility, resulting in blades that squeak and don't clean the windshield. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can also cause the entire blade, including its frame and connectors, to deteriorate. Not only is this ineffective, but it can also leave permanent scratches on the glass. Another factor is the UV radiation from the sun, which breaks down the chemical bonds in the rubber and affects the overall performance of conventional blades.

Cold Climates

Come winter, and you have a whole host of new challenges to deal with. The rubber in the blades tends to harden in low temperatures, much like water turning into ice, which hampers their ability to fit snugly against the windshield. This hardening is compounded by the accumulation of ice and snow on the blades and their frames, which can weigh them down, making them less responsive or even immobilizing them if they freeze on the windshield. Moreover, the cold can make the rubber brittle, increasing the risk of cracking, and heavy snow and slush require the blades to work harder, potentially straining the motor and the blades.

Heavy Rains

Heavy rains can be overwhelming for wiper blades that aren't designed for such extreme conditions. They have to work harder, move faster, and clear more water than usual. If the blades are old or of poor quality, they'll likely leave behind streaks and reduce visibility.

Ice and Snow

These conditions present a dual challenge: not only do the blades need to be able to move smoothly, but they also need to be tough enough to break through ice and heavy snow without damaging the windshield.

Strong Winds

In strong winds, the blade needs to maintain constant contact with the windshield without lifting away. This is where a blade's design can make a significant difference. An advanced design will feature aerodynamic properties that allow the blade to resist the lifting force of strong winds.

How TRICO Addresses Climate-Related Challenges

At TRICO, we understand the varied challenges that different climates pose to wiper blades. That's why our approach to design and materials is tailored to meet these diverse needs. We use Z7™ Infused Rubber in our blades for enhanced wear resistance so that they maintain performance in extreme weather and last longer than standard blades, even in harsh conditions.

For example, our exclusive TRICO Silicone Ceramic™ blades are crafted with a combination of silicone and a ceramic coating. This design offers increased resistance against both extreme heat and cold, providing reliable all-weather performance.

TRICO Titan® represents the pinnacle of durability, designed to be the most robust blade available capable of withstanding all environmental stressors. In the case of strong winds, TRICO Force® blades come into play with their VorTec® aerofoil technology, converting wind force to maintain maximum windshield contact for optimal performances.

For extreme winter conditions, TRICO Ice® wiper blades are the go-to choice. They are ruggedly built with armored seals to protect the blade structure from severe weather. The robust, heavy-gauge rubber element is specially designed to resist tearing, even in sub-zero temperatures.

Should You Change Your Wipers More Often in Extreme Climates?

In areas with harsh winters, where ice, snow, and road salt can cause more rapid deterioration, changing your wiper blades every six months can be a good rule of thumb. Similarly, in very hot climates, where intense sun and heat can cause rubber components to crack and deteriorate quickly, a 6-month replacement schedule is also prudent.

Regular checks for signs of wear, such as streaks, squeaking noises, or visible rubber damage, are also essential. By choosing the right blades for your climate and replacing them regularly, you can ensure clear visibility and safer driving in rain, shine, or snow.

Trust TRICO and let our wiper blades take care of your visibility in all weather conditions.