You have probably heard the term “antifreeze” many times. Sometimes, though, familiar terms need to be understood better. Antifreeze consists mainly of ethylene glycol.
When this chemical is mixed with water, the combination raises the boiling point and lowers the freezing point of water so your car’s engine can function better in extreme temperatures. Antifreeze performs several vital functions that keep you rolling.
Stops Water in the Engine From Freezing
Antifreeze lowers the freezing point of water in your vehicle’s engine. Usually, water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius. But when antifreeze is mixed with water, the freezing point drops to -35 degrees Fahrenheit or -37 degrees Celsius.
For example, change the water mixture to ethylene glycol from 50/50 to 30/70. In a 30/70 blend, the freezing point of water plummets to -67 degrees Fahrenheit, or -55 degrees Celsius. However, if you are not knowledgeable in mechanical vehicle systems, ask the advice of a mechanic before altering a standard mixture of 50/50 water to antifreeze.
When water freezes, it expands and crystallizes. Chemicals added to water make it more difficult for water molecules to bind and crystallize. This struggle results in a delay in freezing.
Helps Cool Engine When Combined With Coolant
Antifreeze can also regulate your vehicle engine’s temperature in hot weather. Interestingly, antifreeze is not more effective than plain water on its own. However, when the two are combined, they are called coolant. This mixture raises the boiling point of water. Antifreeze chemicals are mixed with water in varying ratios; they help divert heat from the engine as they cycle through your vehicle’s cooling system.
Mixing Your Coolant
The blend of antifreeze and water can be mixed according to your area’s temperature ranges. However, a mixture of 50/50 water and antifreeze is adequate unless you live in a region with extreme temperatures. Mixing your combination is cost-effective.
However, if you are uncomfortable creating your coolant mixture, you can spend more and purchase pre-mixed blends of 50/50. However, unless you buy antifreeze that states specifically on the label that it is pre-mixed, you must dilute antifreeze with water.
You should use distilled water, which is readily available because ordinary tap water contains minerals that can build up over time as the coolant cycles through your engine’s cooling system. Distilled water has been boiled to remove minerals, making your vehicle’s cooling system safer.
Checking Coolant Levels
You should check coolant levels twice a year. If the coolant gets too low, your car’s engine will not be adequately cooled. However, if you have a problem with coolant overflow, you need to check several other things, including whether the radiator cap is faulty or if the entire radiator has failed. Failure to take action could damage your vehicle’s electrical systems.
If you feel uncomfortable doing things yourself, take your car to a mechanic unless you still have a warranty with the dealer. Be sure to use quality antifreeze and parts. A knowledgeable auto parts store associate can help you find the best products at the lowest prices.