To remove ice from sight glasses or viewing glasses, what should be used?

To remove ice from sight glasses or viewing glasses effectively, an alcohol spray is advantageous due to its properties. Alcohol has a lower freezing point than water, which means it can help melt the ice more efficiently. When applied, the alcohol evaporates quickly, which aids in the de-icing process without leaving excess moisture behind that could refreeze.

Using alcohol is especially effective because it does not introduce additional water, which can lead to further freezing issues. Additionally, the rapid evaporation of alcohol helps to ensure that the viewing glass is clear and free from moisture that could impair visibility.

Other methods, while they may remove ice, are less effective or could potentially cause damage. For example, cool water may not be warm enough to melt the ice effectively and could lead to the ice refreezing if temperatures drop. Compressed air can remove frost but may not effectively address thicker layers of ice, and it could also cause the glass to become colder, potentially leading to more frost formation. Heating tape can provide a solution but is typically used for longer-term applications rather than for immediate de-icing of sight glasses.