As temperatures drop during the winter, the last thing you want is for your plumbing system to freeze and potentially cause extensive damage. Anti-freeze for homes is a liquid that contains chemicals that lower the freezing point of water, protecting pipes and other plumbing components from bursting. Without anti-freeze, residual moisture in plumbing systems can freeze and expand, causing cracks in the pipes, joints, or other fittings in a plumbing system.
One of the most popular anti-freeze solutions on the market is the Hercules® Cryo-Tek™ line, which offers a range of options to suit different needs.
Below, we will explore the different types of Cryo-Tek anti-freeze available, their various use cases, and how to choose the proper anti-freeze for your specific plumbing system.
Whether you are a plumbing apprentice, beginner tradesperson, or a do-it-yourself homeowner looking to winterize your plumbing system, this blog will provide the necessary information you need to choose the right anti-freeze for your needs.
Using the Right Cryo-Tek Anti-freeze for Your Application
The Cryo-Tek line includes Cryo-Tek Original, Cryo-Tek Minus 100, Cryo-Tek AG, Cryo-Tek Universal, and Cryo-Tek RTU-35 anti-freeze. Each type is designed for various applications. The suitable product for your application depends on the system type, climate, and metal content.
Below are four factors to consider when selecting anti-freeze for winterization:
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First, always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the system you are working with. Producers will often have a preferred type of anti-freeze suitable for the specific system.
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Consider the climate you are in when selecting the type of anti-freeze. Some anti-freezes are better suited for colder temperatures than others.
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Another factor is the freeze-protection level required for your plumbing system or the desired temperature coverage. Different anti-freeze types offer different freeze protection levels, so it is essential to choose the right type to ensure adequate protection against freezing.
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Finally, the amount of anti-freeze required depends on the size of the system you are protecting. Be sure to measure accurately and ensure the correct amount of anti-freeze is added to the system.
The Different Types of Hercules® Cryo-Tek™ Anti-freeze:
The main differences between Hercules Cryo-Tek products lie in the percentage of propylene glycol used in each and the applications each is best suited for. Hercules Cryo-Tek antifreeze is made only with virgin propylene glycol. Virgin propylene glycol has never been used previously. Some boiler manufacturers state in their warranties that antifreeze made with virgin propylene glycol is required or the warranty is voided. Recycled propylene glycol is captured and cleaned after use (mainly for de-icing aircraft). It is then considered a lower grade of propylene glycol and may still contain other ingredients even after cleaning.
Cryo-Tek’s triple protection inhibitor stabilizes pH to prevent corrosion, chelates, and hard-water minerals. The solution also inhibits scale and sediment formation.
Cryo-Tek is designed for hydronic heating and cooling closed loop systems, most solar heating systems, snow melts, radiant heat, and general plumbing systems. It is also “GRAS”: Generally Recognized As Safe for incidental contact with food.
For step-by-step instructions on how to add a particular Cryo-Tek product to your system, refer to the product’s instruction guide on the product page.
Let’s take a closer look at the Cryo-Tek home anti-freeze line:
Cryo-Tek Original: The Original Cryo-Tek is a blend of 45% virgin propylene glycol and 55% water. While Cryo-Tek Original is one of the most versatile products in the Cryo-Tek line, it should not be used with galvanized, CPVC, or aluminum piping.
Cryo-Tek Minus 100: The Cryo-Tek minus 100 has a higher concentration of glycol — 55% — providing lower freezing-point protection when undiluted. Cryo-Tek Minus 100 is a high-performance anti-freeze solution ideal for systems requiring extremely low-temperature coverage. Cryo-Tek Minus 100 should also not be used with galvanized, CPVC, or aluminum piping.
Cryo-Tek AG: The Cryo-Tek AG is a 95% Virgin Propylene Glycol formula, but it is typically diluted or added to existing systems that already have some glycol in them. The higher concentration makes it easier to balance out systems with water leaks or to add to systems that require it. Once again, Cryo-Tek AG should not be used with galvanized, CPVC, or aluminum piping.
Cryo-Tek Universal: The universal option is a 97% concentration and can be used with aluminum and galvanized systems. It offers versatility when the specific system requirements are unknown. As the name suggests, Cryo-Tek Universal is a versatile anti-freeze solution suitable for almost all systems (not tested for use with CPVC). It is and can provide effective freeze protection in various situations.
Cryo-Tek RTU-35: The Cryo-Tek RTU-35 (Ready-To-Use) is a pre-mixed solution of 35% virgin propylene glycol, which is approved for use with all metals, PEX, and elastomeric tubing (not for use with CPVC). No dilution required. It's designed for hydronic heating and cooling closed loop systems, most solar heating systems, snow melts, radiant heat and general plumbing systems.
Anti-freeze is a crucial component of any plumbing system that is exposed to potential freezing temperatures. Choosing the right anti-freeze can help prevent costly repairs and protect your plumbing system.
When choosing the right anti-freeze for your plumbing system, check the manufacturer’s recommendations, consider the climate, and determine the freeze-protection level required for optimal protection. With these considerations in mind, you can ensure your plumbing system is ready to handle even the coldest winters.
For additional preparation tips, check out our 7 Fall Maintenance Tips to Prepare for Winter.