The arrival of autumn, as far as our car is concerned, means preparing it for lower temperatures and adverse weather phenomena. Checking the level to see whether or not you need to change the coolant is one of those unavoidable maintenance tasks. The engines have a cooling circuit made up of a tank, a pump, a radiator, a thermostat and a fan that allows them to remain at a stable temperature for correct operation.
The coolant feeds this circuit, whose function is to contain the energy that the engine releases in the form of heat to avoid overheating and breakdowns. This system represented a qualitative leap in mechanics, since originally the engines were cooled by contact with air and, later, by a thermodynamic circuit supplied by water. The water collected the engine heat and took it to the radiator, from which it was evacuated to the atmosphere, and returned cooled to the cycle to alleviate mechanical friction. But can water be used as a substitute for coolant?
The main reason why you should not use water as a coolant is because it solidifies at 0 degrees. A risk that is not worth taking in the face of winter frosts, since, when water freezes, its volume increases and could destroy the inside of the engine. Likewise, water is not a recommended coolant for high temperatures either, since at 100 degrees it evaporates, which would reduce its quantity in the circuit and, consequently, the cooling power of the system itself.
Another drawback of using water as a coolant is that its degree of purification can vary depending on geographical areas. Generally, running water carries minerals and impurities that end up settling inside the circuit and could clog the system's ducts.
Refrigerants remain in a liquid state at several degrees below zero and, in addition, have a higher boiling point than water. That is why they are commonly called antifreeze and their effectiveness is measured based on the temperatures they withstand, which the user must select based on the harshness of the climate where they live. Likewise, these products have special detergents and additives in their composition that help keep the inside of the circuit clean and prevent metal corrosion.
Thus, it is not advisable to use tap water as a coolant. Only in case of emergency, when we do not have enough liquid to restore the adequate level of the tank, can we use water to fill the cooling circuit to avoid harmful consequences for the engine. Above all, in winter, we can dilute alcohol in water, which remains in a liquid state below zero degrees. Once the trance is over, we will have to replace the appropriate amount of coolant.
