Antifreeze – How does it work?

As we approach the colder months now is the time to start thinking about how you will run your engine throughout the winter.

Understanding how antifreeze works will help you protect your engine from trouble this winter.

What is Antifreeze made of?

Antifreeze is a glycol-based fluid made up of either ethylene glycol (EGW) or propylene glycol (PGW) and several anti-corrosive compounds which prevents the corrosion & oxidisation of your coolant system.

Most machines use a 50 / 50 mixture of water and antifreeze, however some come premixed so be sure to check the label before usage.

What does it do?

A master for temperature control.

Antifreeze works two ways

All engines generate masses of heat, without controlling these high temperatures engine components such as rubber and plastic will fail, leading to expensive repair jobs.

Antifreeze lowers the freezing point of water in your engine, which means your water pump, hoses and radiator will not freeze during the winter.

In the summer, antifreeze prevents the water in your engine from boiling over.

The difference between engine coolant & antifreeze

Coolant is a pre-mixed liquid solution made up of antifreeze and water, this solution is usually a 50 / 50 split, but some coolants are 70 / 30 mix, especially in winter months.

However, antifreeze concentrate is not pre-mixed and will need to be used 50 / 50 with water.

Always follow manufacturer recommendations when adding coolant to your system.

When to check / change your antifreeze?

Best practice is to at least check your levels twice a year (every 6 months) usually before entering the winter and summer.

There a many signs which may signify your antifreeze is due a change, these include:

• The coolant light appearing
• High temperature on your needle gauge
• A puddle of coolant or a sweet smell in and around your machine / vehicle could indicate there is a leak
• Heaters out of action.

RICO Europe supplies antifreeze in 5L & 20L

Our Antifreeze provides protection against freezing and corrosion down to -36°C, at a 50% dilution.

It provides protection for a wide range of metals prolonging the life of your radiator, pumps, the block itself and the entire engine cooling system:

• Conforms to BS6580
• Lasts up to 2 years in service (50%)
• Universal antifreeze/coolant
• Excellent corrosion protection on cast iron, aluminium, copper alloys and solder
• Suitable for year-round use
• Nitrate, amine and phosphate (NAP) free.

Our engine coolant is free from nitrite, amine, and phosphate ensuring it meets the requirements of BS6580.