Choosing a chiller is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Each site has its unique demands, space constraints and operational risks. Whether you are installing a new system or replacing an ageing one, it pays to ask the right questions up front. Here are the key questions to ask before buying a chiller unit for your business.
What Capacity Do You Need?
Chiller capacity is typically measured in kilowatts or tonnes of cooling and selecting the wrong size can lead to frequent breakdowns or wasted energy. A unit that is too small will run constantly and fail to meet demand, while one that is too large may cycle inefficiently and wear out faster. At Evolution Cooling, we carry out detailed site assessments to match capacity with your building load, process requirements and seasonal variation.
How Often Will You Use It Throughout the Year?
Some facilities operate year-round, while others only need seasonal or occasional cooling. Understanding usage patterns will influence your decision on unit type, efficiency features and servicing requirements. For example, a chiller that runs daily may benefit from variable speed components or remote monitoring, while one used seasonally may require off-season protection and planned recommissioning. We tailor solutions to suit your operational calendar and reduce unnecessary wear.
What Is Your Budget?
Initial cost is just one part of the investment. Running costs, repairs and service life all affect your return over time. Budget decisions often come down to priority. If reliability is essential, we may recommend a more robust OEM chiller unit with full lifecycle support. If usage is lower or temporary, a flexible hire model may offer better value. We also advise on warranty terms and servicing inclusions to help you manage long-term costs.
How Does Your Current System Perform?
If you are replacing an old chiller, it is important to understand its weaknesses. Has the unit failed frequently? Is it running inefficiently? Have repair costs increased over time? By reviewing the performance and maintenance history of your existing system, we can identify common failure points and recommend a new unit that improves both resilience and efficiency. Our team can also carry out a full condition report to support your decision-making.
Do You Have Access to Outside Space?
The choice between indoor and outdoor installation often comes down to available space. However, site conditions also matter. Outdoor units typically benefit from better airflow and easier heat rejection, but they need protection from weather and seasonal temperature changes. Conversely, indoor units may be more accessible for servicing, but they require good ventilation and are often exposed to dust, heat and restricted airflow.
Is Chiller Hire or Purchase the Better Option?
In some cases, hiring a chiller makes more sense than buying one outright. This is especially true for temporary installations, seasonal operations or emergency replacement after a breakdown. Our hire contracts offer flexibility, fast installation and no long-term servicing commitments. Purchased units, by contrast, allow for full control and lower costs over a longer period. We support both models and help clients decide based on budget, duration and usage.
Will You Be Cooling HVAC or Process Equipment?
HVAC and process chillers often look similar, but their internal demands are very different. HVAC systems may experience frequent fluctuations in load, while process chillers are typically expected to deliver precise, stable cooling under continuous use. This affects not just sizing but also the control systems and resilience features required. Repairs on HVAC chillers often reveal neglected air filters, cycling faults or electrical issues due to variable load. Process chillers, meanwhile, require strict monitoring of flow and temperature to avoid shutdowns.
What Sort Of Chiller Is Best for a Data Centre or Server Room?
Data centres and server rooms require highly reliable cooling with precise temperature and humidity control. Air-cooled chillers with redundancy and close-coupled systems are often preferred for these environments. They are designed to handle constant load, provide stable operation and respond quickly to changes in thermal demand. Rack-mounted or in-row systems may also be used alongside traditional chillers to improve efficiency. At Evolution Cooling, we help data centre clients specify equipment with backup functionality, low-noise output and smart controls, ensuring system resilience and fault tolerance.
Let Evolution Cooling Support Your Chiller Selection
From initial assessment to installation and aftercare, Evolution Cooling delivers tailored chiller solutions based on real-world conditions. We work with all major manufacturers and chiller types and have extensive experience in reducing operating costs through efficient design and servicing. Contact our team today for honest advice and practical support in selecting the right chiller for your site.
