What is a chiller used for in commercial air conditioning?

A chiller is an essential component in commercial air conditioning systems, primarily designed to remove heat from a liquid, often water, through various cooling techniques. This process typically involves the circulation of a refrigerant, which absorbs heat from the water, thereby lowering its temperature. The cooled liquid is then circulated throughout the building to provide air conditioning by either directly cooling the air within a space or by passing the cooled water through coils to facilitate indirect cooling.

Understanding the specific role of a chiller clarifies its importance in HVAC systems. The ability to manage and reduce the thermal load in a commercial space is critical for maintaining comfortable temperatures and ensuring efficient energy use. The effectiveness of a chiller ultimately supports the overall performance of the HVAC system by ensuring that the cooling requirements of the space are met effectively and efficiently.

In commercial applications, chillers are often utilized in large buildings, manufacturing processes, and various industrial applications, making them pivotal for large-scale cooling needs.