A radiator is the component of a car that is used to transfer energy from one place to the next.  The exchange of energy cools and heats the vehicle as necessary.  Radiators not only work in cars; they are installed in buildings and electronics, too.  The radiator is always the source of heat.  However, while it is used for heating, it can be used for cooling, as in vehicles.

In buildings, radiators are part of the central heating system.  Hot water and steam are often generated in the main boiler and circulate through the building via pumps.  Radiators are available in two kinds: single-pipe and double-pipe.  Single-pipes work mainly with steam.  Double-pipes work with hot water and/or steam.  Double-pipe radiators are often preferred by consumers as they perform more functions.

In vehicles, radiators have the primary purpose of keeping the car, etc at a safe temperature.  Internal combustion engines, which are contained in both cars and piston-engine aircraft, need to be cooled.  The engines can also be used in railway locomotives, generating plants and motorcycles.  The process begins with a liquid coolant going through the engine block.  From there, the liquid is heated and continues to the radiator where the heat is lost to the atmosphere.  Coolants are normally water-based but are available with oil.  Coolants can be circulated with the use of a pump or fans.

As electronic devices continually become smaller, the dispersing of heat becomes more difficult.  Radiators, often referred to as heat sinks, are installed so excess heat will be circulated into a cooling air stream.  Electromagnetic radiator elements and electric radiators should not be confused with heat sinks.

Over time, radiators accumulate gunk and important passages become blocked.  When this happens, vehicle owners need to go to their preferred auto shop and get a radiator flush.  Flushes may take up to a couple hours because mechanics need the liquid to cool before transferring it to a safe container.  A radiator flush may prove to be expensive, depending on what needs to be done.  The drain plug of the radiator is opened once the liquids are good temperature.  The liquid drains out and the plug is put back in place.  Afterwards, the radiator cap is opened and new coolant is poured in.  When all liquids are topped-off and secured, the mechanic will turn on the car to heat the liquid to normal temperature.  The heating system will be turned on, as well, to circulate the fluid completely.

The fluids are then drained once more.  The radiator will be filled with half coolant and half water.  Afterwards, the radiator flush is complete and the car is ready to go.