What is the primary purpose of a chiller in HVAC systems?

The primary purpose of a chiller in HVAC systems is to remove heat from a liquid, which is typically water or a coolant, and thereby lower the temperature of that liquid. This cooled liquid is then circulated through the system to provide cooling for various spaces within a building. As the hot air in the building comes into contact with the chilled surfaces, it absorbs heat and results in a decrease in the air temperature, which is essentially how air conditioning works.

In this context, the operation of a chiller is crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor environments, as it directly impacts the cooling efficiency and effectiveness of the HVAC system. By removing heat and lowering temperatures, chillers play a vital role in energy management and comfort control in commercial and residential buildings.