What is the Structure and Principle of the Water Heating System?
2 Answers
Water heating systems mainly consist of a blower and a heater core. The principle is as follows: 1. When the heater is turned on, the high-temperature coolant from the car engine enters the heater core. At the same time, the air blown by the blower also enters the heater core, allowing warm air to be blown out through the air conditioning vents. The heater core essentially acts as a heat exchanger. 2. When using the heating function, it is crucial to follow the correct method. Incorrect usage can lead to increased fuel consumption. 3. After starting the engine in winter, do not turn on the heater immediately. Wait for 10 to 15 minutes of normal driving before activating the heater. Right after starting, the engine temperature is relatively low, and turning on the heater too soon can slow down the engine's warming process, increasing fuel consumption. 4. After a cold start in winter, the idle speed is higher than usual. This is because the engine temperature is too low, prompting the ECU to command the fuel injection system to inject more fuel, thereby speeding up the engine's warming process.
The water-based heating system structurally includes engine coolant lines, a heater core, a fan, and control valves. I often see this thing when repairing cars, and its working principle is quite simple: when the engine runs, it heats the coolant, and this hot water flows through pipes to the heater core inside the cabin, which acts like a small radiator; the fan blows air over the core, and the warm air spreads into the car to warm hands and feet. But don’t underestimate its simplicity—it’s prone to issues like clogged pipes or stuck valves, which can prevent warm air from blowing out. I recommend regularly checking the coolant level and cleaning the system before the antifreeze season to extend its lifespan and save fuel. Older cars last longer with proper maintenance, while modern models also incorporate electronic controls for precise temperature regulation, making the structure more compact but still based on the heat exchange principle.
