If you need a new chiller, you may have better options than a straight replacement—options that have to do with getting the right size chiller and accompanying energy savings. Chillers are most efficient when they are operating at or close to max load, and many buildings go through occupancy changes over time that result in the existing equipment being less than ideal for the current situation. Understanding the system’s cooling load based on current and anticipated conditions, a good mechanical resource can help determine if two smaller chillers might be more appropriate. This type installation will allow only one chiller to operate when loads are low and provide redundancy as well. A variable fan drive added to a chiller can also help match capacity to load and enable greater operating efficiency. See the related Cardinal Health case study
