A commercial chiller is a unique machine that is used for reducing the temperature of various liquids by using a vapor-compression technology. The liquid circulates through a heat exchanger, and later it is used for a variety of applications. This machine is most commonly used in industrial environments where cold water is needed. A basic commercial chiller is consisted of typical refrigeration equipment: a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator and a metering device. By using a closed-loop system and a separate tank that cleans and filters the coolant, the commercial chiller is capable to keep the coolant for multiple re-uses.
Since the commercial chillers are often the largest electric machines that can be found in various industrial plants, keeping them in good condition is very important. Even some small problems can reduce their performance by up to 10%. If you manage to operate your commercial chiller at peak performance, you will achieve significant energy savings. Don’t know how to maintain your commercial chiller properly? Here are some maintenance tips for keeping your commercial chiller at peak performance:
Use A Daily Log – The best way to keep your commercial chiller in good operating condition is to use a daily log. In your daily log, you will write your daily activities and all vital information, such as pressures, fluid levels, temperatures, flow rates, etc. By using the latest remote monitoring technologies, you can inspect your chiller on a daily basis very easily. This way, you can identify any problem on time.
Keep The Tubes Clean – The tubes play very important role in the heat transfer process. By cleaning the tubes regularly, the commercial chiller will work more efficiently. If some contaminants are preserved on the tubes for a while, the thermal resistance will increase, and the overall performance will be decreased. Prevent this scenario by cleaning the tubes at least once in a year.
Install Variable Speed Drives – By installing a variable speed drive, you can achieve big energy savings without affecting the performance of the commercial chiller. These drives ensure a peak performance, while consuming significantly less energy.
Check The Compressor Oil – Once in a year, perform a chemical analysis of the compressor oil by using a sample of the lubrication oil. If the analysis shows bad results, you need to replace the oil from your commercial chiller immediately. When changing the oil, replace the oil filters as well.
Maintain Suitable Refrigerant Charge – Maintaining a suitable refrigerant charge is very important for your commercial chiller to operate at peak performance. The amount of cooling your chiller provides depends heavily on how much refrigerant it moves through the compressor. If there are refrigerant leaks, air and moisture in the system, the efficiency and reliability will be significantly reduced. If the level of refrigerant is low, your commercial chiller will work harder, but with less cooling effects.