What Affects Chiller Cost?
Chillers are indispensable temperature control system in industrial production. Some chillers cost thousands of dollars, while others cost tens of thousands or even more. Why is there such a large price gap?
This article will take you to a comprehensive understanding of the factors that affect the price of chillers, so that you can make informed decisions rather than relying on price alone.
>>Verwandt:Was ist eine Kältemaschine

Key Factors Affecting Chiller Cost
Temperature control range and accuracy
The core value of chillers is reflected in the temperature range and temperature control accuracy. The wider the temperature range, the higher the requirements for compressor performance, refrigerant properties, control switching logic, refrigeration technology, etc. Higher temperature control accuracy requires built-in PID controllers, multiple Pt100 sensors, and precise system feedback logic. These technical costs will be reflected in the price of the chiller.
Kühlleistung
Cooling capacity (kW or RT) refers to the chiller’s ability to remove heat. The greater the cooling capacity, the higher the compressor power, and the larger the volume of the heat exchanger. Therefore, chillers with a large cooling capacity usually have a larger volume. Supporting components like the frame, electrical panels, and control systems also need to be upgraded accordingly. The price of some large chillers used in factories is several times that of desktop portable chillers.
Methode der Kühlung
The prices of air-cooled and water-cooled chillers are different. Air-cooled chillers have a simple structure, are easy to install, and require almost no auxiliary facilities, so they are cheaper. Water-cooled chillers require supporting facilities such as water towers and water pumps, which are more expensive to purchase, install, and maintain. If you choose a dual-mode switching structure with air and water, the price will be even higher.
Compressor type
The compressor is one of the most expensive parts of all chiller accessories. The most common ones are scroll compressors and screw compressors. Scroll compressors are generally used in small and medium-sized systems, with moderate prices and high cost performance. Screw compressors are mainly used in large-capacity cooling systems and are more expensive. If you want the compressor to adjust the speed according to the load, you need to choose a variable frequency compressor. Although it is more energy-efficient, the initial cost of the chiller will also increase.
Number of channels
Multi-channel chillers are ideal for applications requiring simultaneous control of multiple temperature zones. Its internal structure is relatively complex. Although accessories such as expansion tanks and condensers can be shared, the compressor, control circuit, water pump, etc. are independent. This design allows independent control of temperature, pressure, and flow for each channel. Its price is significantly higher than that of a single-channel chiller.
Heizung
Some chillers have both cooling and heating functions, commonly referred to as water chiller heaters. It will have a built-in heater, and some chillers are also equipped with a waste heat recovery system. These functions will increase your purchase cost.
Control system and remote function
From basic buttons to touch screens, PLC programming control, Ethernet, Modbus, Profibus communication protocols, USB, etc., the smarter the chiller, the more convenient it is to operate. Many chillers also have built-in data logging, alarms, remote control, safety devices and other functions. These will be reflected in the pricing.
Customization
If you have special material, size, interface, and function requirements, the price will also fluctuate. Chiller manufacturers will carry out additional work such as drawing changes, engineering development, and prototype testing. The price of customized products will include R&D costs.
Component brand
The brand of components such as expansion valves, compressors, and evaporators also affects the price of the chiller system. Danfoss, Copeland, Schneider, etc. are usually more expensive, but offer better stability and after-sales support. The price difference between brands can exceed 30% for some key components.

Hidden Costs: Packaging, Transportation, Installation, and More
Many people only pay attention to the price of the equipment itself when buying a chiller, ignoring the additional costs of packaging, transportation, installation, commissioning, and after-sales. Precision equipment needs to be packaged in special wooden boxes and transported by hoisting.
If you buy an overseas brand, you need to consider tariffs and transportation costs. At the time of delivery, you need to install and debug the equipment before it can be put into use. If the manufacturer does not provide this service, this is also one of your payment points. Some suppliers will provide remote debugging, technical training, regular maintenance, etc. Although the initial cost is slightly higher, it is very cost-effective in the long run.
Schlussfolgerung
When buying a chiller, you can’t just look at the pricing, but also consider factors such as working conditions, service life, energy consumption, and suppliers. A supplier with stable service and mature technology can help you save a lot of trial and error costs.
If you’re not sure which chiller best fits your industrial application, please contact LNEYA. We will provide you with professional selection suggestions and quotations based on your needs to help you choose the most suitable solution within your budget.
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