Are you confused when choosing between car coolant and antifreeze, not knowing the difference between the two?
Worry not! We are here to help you.
Keeping your car in top-notch condition is very important. During car maintenance, you may come across many instances where you have to choose between antifreeze and car coolant. Understanding the difference between the two is crucial when it comes to maintaining your car’s engine and preventing overheating.
Although many car owners assume that the two terms refer to the same product and use them interchangeably, remember that they are not the same – regardless of their similarities.
Let us differentiate between the two products to help you determine which suits your vehicle the best.
Car Coolant – The Cooling It Serves
Car coolant, sometimes referred to as radiator fluid, is a mixture of antifreeze and water. It serves as a heat transfer medium within the engine’s cooling system. The coolant will circulate through your car’s engine and absorb excess heat.
The excess heat is dissipated into the surrounding air once the coolant successfully carries it to the radiator.
If you are in the market looking for coolants, you will most likely find them in different formulations. They are categorized based on differing ratios of antifreeze and water, such as 50:50 and 70:30 – the most common ones.
These ratios directly impact the boiling and freezing points of the coolant, so approach them with caution.
A reliable car coolant like American MFG’s products absorbs the heat in your car’s engine, deploys antifreeze protection, and keeps your car running in optimal condition.
Antifreeze and Its Importance
If you live in freezing cold weather conditions, antifreeze is the one for you. It is a chemical compound that lowers the freezing point and raises the boiling point of water-based liquids.
If the coolant in your engine freezes up during cold temperatures, it will lead to permanent engine damage. So, to prevent this from happening, antifreeze is used.
Aside from this, there are multiple purposes that antifreeze serves.
- It prevents your car coolant from freezing during the cold weather spell.
- It helps remove excess heat from the engine during hot weather conditions – preventing overheating.
- Antifreeze protects the engine’s cooling system from corrosion and keeps the water pump lubricated.
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol or propylene glycol alongside other additives to enhance the overall performance of your car’s engine.
Which One Is Best for You?
When choosing between antifreeze and car coolant, you have to keep several factors in mind, ranging from the climatic conditions of your residence to the recommended specifications by your car’s manufacturer.
Climate
Antifreeze with higher concentration levels is crucial if you live in freezing temperatures. A lower concentration level of antifreeze will suffice if you reside somewhere warmer.
What Does Your Car Manufacturer Recommend?
To determine your car’s specific coolant requirements, you can refer to your car’s user manual or consult a mechanic. While most manufacturers recommend similar coolant types or formulations, it can vary. Thus, consult a professional before buying a coolant.
Best to stay vigilant, right?
The Environmental Impact
Believe it or not, the type of coolant you use does impact your surroundings.
Propylene glycol-based coolants are considered more environmentally friendly and less toxic than the ones containing ethylene glycol. Ensure you use biodegradable coolants to help reduce your carbon footprint.
Conclusion – Which Is Better?
Although car coolant and antifreeze are similar, they are not the same. Antifreeze is the key component of a car coolant. It prevents your car from freezing and overheating. On the other hand, car coolant acts as a medium of heat transfer within your car engine’s cooling system.
Consider the factors such as climate, car manufacturer recommendations, and environmental impact when choosing fluids for your car’s engine.
If you are looking for the right product for your car, American MFG – a leading name in the industry and a prominent producer of antifreeze, is here for you. American MFG offers reliable products, ensuring optimal performance, protecting your engine from damage, and prolonging your car’s lifespan.
