How Does Energy Efficiency Impact Chiller Performance and Costs?
Energy efficiency is a critical consideration when purchasing a chiller. Choosing an energy-efficient model reduces operational costs and aligns with sustainability goals. Look for chillers with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating or advanced features, such as variable speed drives, to improve performance.
Please note that Evolution Cooling prioritises efficiency, offering a selection of chillers that not only reduce energy consumption but also enhance long-term savings. Our expertise ensures that you select a chiller designed to meet your energy requirements while keeping utility bills manageable. With the right model, you can achieve both peak performance and cost-effectiveness, ensuring your investment pays off over time.
How Important Is Maintenance and Servicing for Chiller Longevity?
Routine maintenance is vital for keeping a chiller functioning efficiently and extending its lifespan. Without regular servicing, chillers are more prone to reduced performance, higher energy consumption, and unexpected breakdowns, which can be costly to repair. Proper maintenance involves inspecting key components such as compressors, condensers, and evaporators, as well as monitoring refrigerant levels and cleaning filters. Addressing minor issues early prevents them from escalating into significant problems that disrupt operations. Regular maintenance also improves energy efficiency, ensuring the system runs optimally and lowers operational costs over time.
We help to minimise these risks by providing thorough maintenance services, including routine inspections and prompt repairs. With quick access to replacement parts and expert servicing, operational downtime is kept to a minimum, enhancing both the reliability and longevity of the equipment.
So, you need to upgrade or replace your imaging systems process chiller. If you are like many decision makers, some anxiety about the series of decisions required for such an undertaking is normal.
Below, I have provided some information that will assist you with your research and decision process. For more detailed information and rating tools to evaluate various process chiller manufacturers, check out the Process Chiller Buyers Guide available at legacychillers.com
Let's face it, time is money right? For an owner or manager of a medical imaging center, purchasing a process chiller is most likely not something you will do on a regular basis. For this reason, there is a strong argument to accept your OEM's proposal to bundle the chiller in with the total package.
If the above scenario sounds like a no brainier, and MANY owners go this way, there are pros and cons to a bundled package. Like many things in business, there are pros and cons to consider as follows:
It's one price that can be budgeted into your financing. One stop shipping can be more time efficient for the initial purchase.
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Since most OEMs sell medical imaging gear all over the world, they generally have pre-engineered process chillers that may or may not be equipped with the correct features (see below on features) for your operating environment. Additionally, you can expect to pay double (or more) for the initial cost of the chiller as well as repair services if the OEM bundles that in as well.
Bottom line, if you have time to shop (and ask the right questions) you can usually save significant costs both long and short term. It's also possible to expect less downtime and lower overall operating costs by working direct with a qualified chiller manufacturer that can sell you a properly equipped process chiller specifically designed for your operating environment. On the services side, there are many Independent Service Operators (ISOs) that can provide excellent service on your chiller as well as imaging gear at a lower cost than an OEM. If you are interested in finding an ISO active in your market, please consider reaching out to Legacy. We can generally provide you with several referrals.
Prices can vary a lot depending on the cooling load of your imaging system and your operating environment. Most imaging systems require from 60,000 btuh (5 ton) to 180,000 bthu (15 ton) process chiller capacities.
We have found that cost per ton is the best overall method for budgeting. Assuming you purchase a chiller specifically designed for mission critical applications, you can expect to pay from $1,400 to $1,800 per ton. Generally, the more tons you purchase, the lower the cost per ton. Please keep in mind the cost per ton method generally does not include installation or maintenance costs. If you need pricing on system design and/or installation of your next chiller system, consider reaching out to Legacy. We can generally provide you with several referrals.
This subject is probably one of the least understood, yet the most important. I can't tell you how many times we get calls from buyers of other brand chillers in a panic because they just can't get their chiller to work right. Below I have listed the most important process chiller features and when they should be applied:
Since a process chiller is basically a refrigeration system cooling water, very similar to an air conditioning (AC) system that cools air, a qualified journeymen level HVACR technician can provide most services needed on a chiller. A great place to start is with your current HVACR service provider maintaining your facility's air conditioning systems. Many times, they will have technicians on staff that are familiar with process chillers. There are also some potential cost savings advantages of having your process chiller serviced at the same time as your AC.
Have a service agreement with a qualified HVACR contractor or ISO in place at all times. Look at repair recommendations and keep on top of routine maintenance schedules. This does represent a little administrative work your your part; however, it provides an excellent return on investment. Following these three items will reduce annual downtime, related to mechanical failures, by 80% or more.
All OEM manufacturers of medical imaging equipment will provide a site preparation (name will vary) document that provides all site cooling (or chiller) requirements. It is highly recommended that you find that data and send it to a qualified process chiller manufacturer. In just a few pages, you can effectively communicate key information assuring the correct sizing of your chiller. Important note, PLEASE make sure the information you are sending is the correct data.
If your are replacing an older chiller, make sure to get all information from your existing chiller's pump, a photo of the chiller nomenclature tag and any other information you may have on it. Send it to a qualified chiller manufacturer and make sure to request the features (above) that your site needs.
If you are installing a new imaging system, some mechanical engineering may be required. Legacy can help you with this or refer you to one or more qualified design build contractors in your area. Visit the Legacy Chillers website for more information.
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