Air Cooled Chiller and Water Cooled Chiller System: Understanding the Difference Between Them

When it comes to manufacturing sectors, there is a need for temperature control so precise operations. Whether it is an HVAC system, a data center, or the food manufacturing industry, chillers are responsible for absorbing heat and creating a chilled environment. Water-cooled chillers and air-cooled chillers are two kinds of chiller solutions. Both of the functions work differently and share their benefits. In this post, we will understand the key differences between the two chillers. 

Air-Cooled Chillers Vs Water-Cooled Chillers 

Air-Cooled Chillers

It functions by extracting the surrounding air and absorbing its heat. This chilling machine consists of a condenser coil, which absorbs the heat of the air when it is exposed to the environment. Here is how it works:

• Refrigerant absorbs heat from the air.
• Fans blow comes in contact with the air in the surrounding environment and cools the air in the refrigerant.
• The cooled air is released, and the cycle continues.

Why use Air-Cooled Chillers?

• It is simple to use and install.
• It does not need tons of water for operations, thus saving resources
• Portable and lightweight, thus can be used outdoors 
• Simple and few components reduce the maintenance cost

Water-Cooled Chillers

It is mostly used in large industries as they are highly efficient, long-lasting, and can function for long hours. Here is how this functions:

• The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the water.
• Water from the cooling tower flows into the condenser to remove the heat.
• Heated water is sent back into the cooling tower so that the heat is absorbed and the process continues.

Why use Water-Cooled Chillers?

• It absorbs the heat more efficiently, thus the cooling operations are precise.
• Noiseless operations, which make them apt for indoor spaces like commercial buildings like malls, and hospitals.
• It is ideal for large-scale operations as it has a high capacity and can function for a long time.

How to Pick the Right Chiller?

Now that you know the benefits and specialties of both chillers, you can make a choice based on your needs. 

Application Size: 

For the small buildings with low cooling demands, the air-cooled chillers are more practical. On the other hand, large buildings and data centres benefit from the water-cooled chiller, which is more efficient and long-lasting.

Climate:

If you are living in a hot area, a water-cooled chiller will be able to provide better operations. Cooling the surrounding air with air-cooled chillers will be just a waste of energy, and the operation will also not be precise.

Budget:

If the budget is tight and you also do not want installation concerns, then the air-cooled chillers are best, as they are affordable.

Energy Efficiency:

If you are looking for an energy-efficient option, then choose a water-cooled chiller. Though they are expensive but they result in high efficiency, making them a great long-term investment. 

Wrapping Up….

Talking about the water and air cooled chiller , both serve an essential role in temperature regulation. However, each of them has its share of benefits and limitations. The choice between them should be made based on the factor that serves you better. Not just that, it will also save energy, maintenance charges, and better operational efficiency. Coolstar India designs high-quality cooling solutions at an affordable price. The premium quality material of our cooling solutions can easily withstand the extreme climatic conditions.