Drivers have been warned by experts that they should not be pressing the "air recirculation" button when de-icing their vehicle this winter.
With the Met Office's snow and ice warmings still on high alert for most of the country, it is very important that motorists are careful when they are driving - and safely defrost and de-mist their vehicle before hitting the road.
As temperatures take a plunge, many drivers may find themselves having to spend an extra few minutes making sure that their view is clear, reports RSVP Live.
There have been a number of 'hacks' circulating on social media r ecently on the different ways to get your car road-worthy in cold and icy weather, including pouring warm water on your windscreen or using the plastic bag hack.
However, it is essential that drivers do not use boiling water, as this could crack the glass. This is because in extremely cold weather, boiling water can actually freeze faster than colder water.
Another way to defrost the car is simply by putting on the car's heating and waiting for it to warm up.
But there is one button that tends to confuse a lot of motorists - the "air recirculation" button.
The button - which shows an arrow going into a circle - essentially cuts off outside air from being brought into the car, and instead recirculates the air which is already inside the vehicle.
While it may confuse a lot of drivers, the air recirculation button is great on hot summer days, because it helps your car get cooler faster.
It is also handy for preventing bad smells like silage and pollution from entering your car as it recycles the air.
However, it should be turned off in winter experts warns.
Eden Tyres & Servicing explain: "As a general rule, when it’s cold outside make sure the recirculation button is switched off!
"The air-recirculation button is best to use alongside your AC during warm weather. During cooler weather it doesn’t have many benefits and can even be detrimental.
"Some drivers think it makes sense to not have 'all that cold air coming in' if they are using heaters in winter. However it's best to have your air recirculation turned off."
The experts added: "The main downside of the air-recirculation button is that it traps humidity inside the car, which results in misted windscreens, especially when the air is cold outside and in wet weather. If your vehicle is fully loaded with passengers, it can also cause it to be stuffy and may make you drowsy."
However, not all cars have air recirculation buttons - newer cars are often equipped with sensors that monitor the cabin air and moisture levels, adjusting the air circulation automatically.
