What is the purpose of propeller deicing boots?

The purpose of propeller deicing boots is to heat the blades according to a set cycle, alternating between the left and right propellers. This process is essential for preventing the accumulation of ice on the propeller blades during flight, particularly in conditions where ice formation is likely, such as in clouds or freezing rain. By heating the blades, the deicing boots allow for the removal of ice, thus maintaining the propellers' performance and safety.

When ice builds up on propellers, it can lead to a range of issues, including reduced thrust, changes in aerodynamic properties, and an overall degradation in the aircraft's performance. Thus, the design of the deicing system to alternate heating between the blades is crucial to ensure even and effective deicing while minimizing weight and complexity in the system. This approach ensures that one propeller can remain functional and maintain effective thrust even while the other is being deiced.

Other options like increasing fuel efficiency, reducing engine noise, or improving aerodynamic efficiency are not directly related to the primary function of deicing boots. These aspects focus on different aspects of aircraft performance and operation, rather than addressing the specific need to prevent ice formation on propeller blades.