Unlike traditional forced-air HVAC units, chiller and boiler systems are hydronic. This means they use water rather than air to heat and cool interior structures. To help you determine if this type of system is right for your home or business, here’s a brief overview of how they function and what benefits they offer.

How Do Chiller & Boiler Systems Work?

This type of system consists of a chiller, boiler, and pumps, as well as necessary HVAC controls. It uses radiant heating and a fan coil system to heat or cool air in a building. For example, to air-condition a space, water is cooled to between 40 and 45 degrees in the chiller. This unit is typically installed in the basement of a home or building. The chilled water is circulated through the structure via water coils connected to air handlers. At the same time, heat is absorbed by the water, and the liquid is pumped into a cooling tower before the process starts over.

When warming up a home or business, a boiler furnace heats water and turns it into steam. It travels through pipes to radiators throughout a building that give off the warmth to raise indoor temperatures. As the steams cools, it condenses into water and returns to the boiler.

What Are the Benefits?

Chiller and boiler systems are ideal for large residential homes and commercial structures because of their efficiency. When a traditional HVAC system is used to cool a large building, high levels of refrigerant are required. This can be expensive and dangerous. Water is a much safer and cheaper alternative, and it's also more eco-friendly since it has a high heat capacity. 

Chilled-water air conditioners also tend to last longer than traditional HVAC units because most of their components are located inside a building and shielded from outdoor elements. Since they use water instead of refrigerant, they’re also less likely to corrode and leak.

How Do You Maintenance This Type of System?

Your chiller-boiler should be checked twice a year—once in the spring and again in the fall. A professional HVAC contractor will inspect all components carefully to ensure the system is functioning properly. They can also bleed radiators to get rid of trapped air that prevents adequate air and heat circulation. They will remove water deposit buildup in the pumps and perform other necessary maintenance tasks.

For more information on chiller and boiler systems, turn to the professionals at Disponette Service in Lexington, KY. For over 40 years, the licensed technicians at this family-owned business have been providing HVAC installations, maintenance, and repairs to homes and businesses throughout Fayette County and the surrounding areas. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®, you can always count on their team to offer friendly and efficient service. Visit their website to learn more, and call (859) 255-7157 to schedule an appointment.