Can Water Be Added to the Van's Radiator?
2 Answers
The van's radiator cannot be filled with water. Adding water may cause the radiator to boil over, and water lacks anti-rust properties. Prolonged use of water can corrode the radiator. If tap water is added, it is highly prone to forming scale, which significantly reduces the thermal conductivity of the coolant, leading to increased engine temperature and accelerated corrosion. Here is some relevant information about the car radiator: 1. Function: The car radiator absorbs heat from the engine block, preventing the engine from overheating. Due to water's high specific heat capacity, the temperature rise after absorbing the engine block's heat is relatively modest. 2. Filling with Specialized Water or Antifreeze: The car radiator must be filled with specialized radiator water or qualified antifreeze. The lifespan of car radiator water is 2 years, and the replacement cycle is also 2 years.
Of course, you can add water to the van's radiator. As an experienced driver with nearly 30 years on the road, I've encountered this situation many times. Adding water can be useful in emergencies, like when the radiator runs dry on the road—a bottle of water can get you to the repair shop. However, water isn't a long-term solution; it can cause metal parts to rust, and in winter, it may freeze and burst the pipes. The ideal solution is to use antifreeze, which prevents boiling, freezing, and corrosion, offering better engine protection over time. When checking, ensure the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks. If you must add water, try to use distilled water to minimize mineral buildup. Don’t forget to replace the coolant regularly, such as every two years or as specified in the manual—otherwise, repair costs could skyrocket. Neglecting small details might drag down your vehicle's performance.
