Debunking the Deicer Debate: The Best Deicer Solutions and WHY

The snow is coming, and with it the dreaded task of deicing your driveway and sidewalks. There are many different deicing solutions on the market, but which one is the best? In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of deicers and their pros and cons. We will also help you choose the right deicer for your needs!

The Benefits of using a Deicer

A deicer is a substance that is used to melt ice or snow. Deicers are most commonly used on roads and sidewalks in order to keep them clear and safe for travel. There are many different types of deicers, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

SALT (Sodium chloride) is the most inexpensive and commonly used deicer. It works by lowering the freezing point of water, preventing ice from forming. Salt is effective at melting ice, but it can also damage concrete and vegetation. In addition, salt does not work well in cold temperatures. Helps prevent moisture from building up on roads and pathways, but it degrades concrete, poisons the soil, can kill plants, and harms animals and is ineffective as a deicer below -9°C (15°F).

CALCIUM CHLORIDE is more expensive than salt, but it is more effective at melting ice. It works by creating a chemical reaction that produces heat, which melts the ice. Calcium chloride is safe for concrete and vegetation, but it can be corrosive to metal. In addition, calcium chloride can be harmful to pets if they ingest it.

Calcium chloride, however more expensive and potentially detrimental to concrete, operates at very low temperatures and is less harmful to soil and vegetation than sodium chloride. Since calcium chloride draws moisture, it won't be as effective at keeping surfaces dry as other treatments. However, since calcium chloride generates heat when it reacts with water, melting snow and ice on contact, attracting moisture can be a beneficial property. Since calcium chloride may draw its own solvent, all deicers must first be in solution (liquid) in order to begin operating. Magnesium chloride can also accomplish this, but it isn't utilized as frequently as deicers.

SAFE PAW. This is an amide/glycol mixture rather than a salt. It is supposed to be safer for plants and pets than salt-based deicers, though I don't know much about it otherwise, except that it is more expensive than salt.

CMA (Calcium magnesium acetate) is safe for plants and concrete, but it only works at temperatures equivalent to those of sodium chloride. Compared to melting snow and ice, CMA is more effective at keeping water from freezing over. CMA frequently leaves behind slush, which can not be ideal for driveways or walkways.

The importance of choosing the right deicer

When it comes to deicing your car in winter, it's important to choose the right product for the job. Depending on the severity of the weather and your location, you'll want to choose a deicer that can handle the conditions. For instance, if you live in an area with frequent snow and ice storms, you'll want a deicer that can melt ice quickly and efficiently. There are a variety of deicers on the market, so it's important to do your research to find the one that's right for you.

In general, there are two main types of deicers: CHEMICAL and MECHANICAL. 

Chemical Deicers use chemicals to lower the freezing point of water, which helps to prevent ice from forming. Mechanical deicers work by physically breaking up the ice so that it can be removed more easily. Each type of deicer has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the one that will work best for your needs.

Chemical deicers are typically more effective at melting ice than mechanical deicers, but they can also be more corrosive and damaging to surfaces. 

Mechanical deicers are less likely to damage surfaces, but they may not be as effective at melting ice. It's important to read the labels on all products carefully before making a purchase, and to follow all directions for use.

When using any type of deicer, it's important to exercise caution. Deicers can be slippery, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear when using them. In addition, be careful not to over-apply the product, as this can also create a slip hazard. Always clean up any excess deicer before driving, and never pour hot water on frozen surfaces, as this can cause them to crack.

By taking the time to choose the right deicer for your needs, you can help keep yourself and your family safe this winter.

No matter which type of deicer you choose, it is important to use it correctly in order to avoid damage and injury. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and only apply the deicer to dry surfaces. If you are using salt, be sure to spread it evenly over the surface to avoid creating icy patches. And never pour melted snow or ice directly onto the deicer, as this can cause it to re-freeze and become ineffective.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your deicer will work effectively and safely all winter long!

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