Chilled water air conditioning systems cool spaces by using water instead of air to absorb and remove heat.
The Basic Process
The core function of a chilled water system is to cool the water and then circulate that chilled water to absorb heat from the space being conditioned. Here is a simplified explanation:
- Water Cooling: The system cools water down to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit using a chiller.
- Circulation: The chilled water is then circulated through a coil inside an air handler unit.
- Heat Absorption: Air is blown across the coil, allowing the water to absorb heat from the air.
- Heat Dispersion: The heated water returns to the chiller to be cooled down again, and the heat is dispersed outside.
- Cooling: The cooled air is distributed through the ductwork to cool the building.
Key Components
While the basic process is straightforward, several components contribute to the overall functionality:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Chiller | Cools the water to the desired temperature. |
| Water Pump | Circulates the chilled water through the pipes and coil. |
| Air Handler Unit | Contains the water coil and a fan, which blows air across the coil. |
| Water Coil | Facilitates heat transfer between the air and the chilled water. |
| Pipes | Transport the water throughout the system. |
How it Differs from Traditional AC
Traditional air conditioners use refrigerant to cool the air directly. Chilled water systems use water to carry the cooling load, which can offer advantages, such as:
- Energy Efficiency: Chilled water systems can be more energy efficient, particularly in large buildings, because they can use a centralized chiller to cool water for multiple air handlers.
- Scalability: These systems are scalable, allowing for easy expansion as cooling needs increase.
- Precise Temperature Control: Chilled water systems generally offer more precise temperature control compared to traditional AC systems.
Practical Insights
- Large Buildings: Chilled water systems are commonly found in large commercial buildings, campuses, and industrial facilities due to their efficiency and scalability.
- Installation: Installing a chilled water system requires careful planning and consideration of the piping layout, chiller capacity, and air handler distribution.
- Maintenance: Like all HVAC systems, regular maintenance, such as filter changes and leak checks, is important to ensure optimal performance.
