In the Antifreeze section, you’ll find antifreeze and winterization products for boats, yachts, and marine accessories—designed to protect engine and cooling systems, fresh water/drinking water systems, as well as pipes, pumps, and plumbing from freeze damage, corrosion, and scale buildup. When used correctly, antifreeze prevents costly damage to heat exchangers, cooling systems, hoses, pumps, and fittings—especially during winter storage and periods of inactivity.
In line with the main category of Paints & Care, a systematic approach is also key when it comes to antifreeze: the substrate/material (metals, seals, plastics), existing media (coolant, water, residual salt), the correct mixture, and proper application determine the protective effect and compatibility. Mixing systems and simply “pouring in whatever” often lead to problems (flocculation, seal damage, loss of corrosion protection).
Engine/cooling system: Use only coolant that is approved for your engine type and the materials in the system (corrosion protection is just as important here as freeze protection). Drinking water/fresh water system: Use only products that are specifically intended for drinking water systems. Plumbing/toilet: Special, material-friendly winter preservatives are often used here that are compatible with pumps, valves, and seals. The key point is: not every antifreeze is suitable for every system.
Basic principle: clean/flush → drain → make frost-proof. For drinking water lines: Drain the system, preserve it with a suitable product if necessary, and flush all outlets until the solution is present. For engines: Depending on the system (closed/open), fill according to the manufacturer’s instructions or circulate through the intake/flush connection until antifreeze is in the circuit. Important: The correct mixing ratio and complete distribution throughout the system.
Freeze protection is determined by the mixing ratio (e.g., 1:1 or as per the table). Too low a concentration does not provide reliable protection; too high a concentration can impair heat dissipation and compatibility. Use the manufacturer’s mixing/freeze table and—if available—an antifreeze tester (refractometer/spindle) to check the target temperature.
Only if it is expressly approved. Different additive packages (corrosion protection) can interfere with each other, cause flocculation, or reduce protection. If you are unsure which fluid is already in the system, a complete change with flushing is the cleanest solution—similar to paint/maintenance systems, the rule applies: sticking to one system ensures reliability.
Pay attention to material compatibility and manufacturer approvals. Some circuits contain aluminum components, others a lot of brass or cast iron. In addition, there are seals and impeller/pump components. A suitable antifreeze not only protects against freezing but also against corrosion and preserves seals. For drinking water systems, safety and odor/taste are also relevant factors.
Store in a cool, dry, frost-free place and keep tightly sealed—just like other maintenance and chemical products. Follow the safety data sheet, do not transfer to food containers, and keep out of reach of children. Seal opened containers tightly and protect from UV light and heat. Disposal: Dispose of used fluids properly (do not pour into the bilge or wastewater).
Common causes include using the wrong product type (e.g., coolant instead of drinking water antifreeze), incorrect mixing ratios, incomplete distribution (part of the system remains filled with water), or mixing incompatible products. Also often forgotten: intake points, filter housings, outdoor showers, deck wash pumps, boilers, and valves. A quick checklist for each system can save a lot of trouble here.