How to Choose and Use Anti-freeze
What is Anti-freeze?
Anti-freeze, also commonly referred to as coolant, is a liquid specifically designed to protect engines and other components of vehicles from damage caused by freezing temperatures. Its most important role is to lower the freezing point of the liquid inside the vehicle’s cooling system. This means that anti-freeze can protect refrigerant lines, radiators, and other components from severe weather conditions. Anti-freeze also works to increase the boiling point of the cooling system liquid, preventing it from boiling over during the hotter summer months.
Types of Anti-freeze
One of the most common types of anti-freeze available is the ethylene glycol-based fluid. Most vehicles today require the use of an ethylene glycol-based anti-freeze to ensure maximum protection against freezing temperatures. Ethylene glycol-based coolants come in both both prediluted and concentrated forms. Prediluted coolant is a mixture of ethylene glycol, distilled water, and other corrosion inhibitors and should be added directly to the cooling system as-is. Concentrated Coolants contain a higher percentage of ethylene glycol, but require the addition of distilled water before being added to the cooling system.
It is important to note that although ethylene glycol-based coolants are the most commonly used coolant among vehicles, they are not appropriate for all engines and it is important to check the prescribed fluid type with the vehicle’s owner’s manual before purchasing. Propylene glycol-based anti-freeze coolants are another popular choice for those who are looking for less costly, more environmentally friendly versions of anti-freeze. Propylene glycol is more expensive than ethylene glycol-based anti-freeze, but its more environmentally friendly and has a longer shelf life than ethylene glycol-based anti-freeze.
When to Replace the Anti-freeze
It is important to routinely check your vehicle’s anti-freeze levels as part of an overall maintenance check. Anti-freeze levels should be checked at least once a year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. Anti-freeze levels should be topped up as required. If several topping ups are needed within a short period of time, it is recommended to replace the coolant entirely. This is because anti-freeze can become contaminated over time, resulting in a decrease in cooling system efficiency. Old coolant should not be flushed down drains, toilets, or added to rivers, lakes, or other water sources, as it can be hazardous to aquatic life.
Choosing the Right Anti-freeze for Your Vehicle
The type of coolant used in a vehicle will vary depending on the make and model. Therefore, it is important to refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the type of anti-freeze recommended for your vehicle. Once you know the type of anti-freeze recommended by the manufacturer, you can purchase the appropriate anti-freeze from a variety of sources. Most automotive supply stores carry a wide variety of anti-freeze for various makes and models.
How to Use Anti-Freeze
Once you have chosen the correct anti-freeze, you can start using it in your vehicle’s cooling system. Refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to install the coolant. The installation process will vary among different makes and models. Generally speaking, the installation process involves draining the existing coolant from the system, flushing the system with water, replacing it with new coolant, and running the engine to circulate the coolant. It is important to never mix different types of anti-freeze in the same cooling system, as this can decrease its protection and damage the system.
Anti-freeze is an essential part of keeping a vehicle running efficiently in all climates and conditions. It is important to ensure that the right type of coolant is used in a vehicle, and that the anti-freeze is replaced as necessary to ensure maximum protection against the elements. Understanding how to choose and use anti-freeze will help extend the life of your vehicle, enabling it to last longer and perform better.
