What are the major impacts of adding tap water to a car radiator?
1 Answers
When the water level in the car radiator is insufficient during driving, tap water can be temporarily used to replenish it, and the impact is not significant. However, it is not recommended to use tap water for a long time because it contains many impurities, which can cause scale and rust in the radiator. More details are as follows: 1. The difference between antifreeze and tap water: The radiator is filled with antifreeze specifically designed for cars. The boiling point of this antifreeze differs from that of ordinary water. Ordinary water boils at 100 degrees Celsius, while antifreeze can reach a boiling point of over 110 degrees. Tap water can be used temporarily for a short period, but if the car's water temperature warning light does not come on, it is advised not to add tap water, as it contains many impurities and is prone to leaving deposits. 2. The role of antifreeze: The water in the car radiator is antifreeze, which has functions of antifreeze, anti-rust, and anti-boil. However, not all cars have the same boiling point for their coolant, as vehicles choose coolant based on the local minimum temperature. Some car owners may opt to use water instead in the summer, utilizing water as a heat transfer medium to dissipate heat through convection and maintain the engine at an appropriate operating temperature.
