Chillers can play a crucial role in reducing energy and water consumption in laboratories by recirculating water instead of relying on single-pass cooling from the tap. This not only conserves water but also lowers energy costs associated with heating and cooling.
Lab Manager spoke to Greg Ducharme, product director–LCS with Laird Thermal Systems, about key considerations when selecting a laboratory chiller for sustainability, including energy efficiency ratings, cooling capacity, and compatibility with lab processes to optimize performance while minimizing environmental impact.
Sustainability factors to consider when selecting a laboratory chiller
To maximize energy efficiency and water conservation, lab managers should carefully select the appropriate chiller size: Choosing a unit that meets the application’s cooling needs with a 20 percent margin in performance ensures efficiency without excessive energy consumption. If the unit will be in use frequently, investing in a chiller with a variable speed compressor can reduce power consumption during low cooling load periods.
The type of fluid system matters—sealed or semi-closed systems minimize evaporative losses and biofouling compared to open systems. “Think of a fish tank (open system), compared to a semi-closed system (automobile system), compared to a home heating system (closed system),” says Ducharme. “The level of maintenance (filling and flushing the fluid) goes from monthly, to bi-annual, to almost never.”
Advances in sustainable laboratory chiller technology
Modern chiller technologies have introduced several advancements that enhance operational efficiency and minimize environmental impact. One key development is the use of natural refrigerants, which have a significantly lower global warming potential than older alternatives. Additionally, variable speed compressors help limit power consumption during periods of low cooling demand, reducing both energy use and operating noise.
Other innovations include electronic expansion valves, which provide precise refrigerant control to optimize heat exchanger performance. “This technology has been around for 10+ years, but these valves allow precise control of the refrigerant flow within the system to control refrigerant superheat and maximize heat exchanger performance,” says Ducharme. Additionally, higher efficiency motors that meet legislative standards such as the EU’s IE2 (European Intervention Initiative) requirements contribute to long-term energy savings, making modern chillers more sustainable and cost-effective.
Common mistakes in chiller selection and use
To avoid inefficiencies, labs should carefully assess their cooling needs rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. Selecting a single large chiller for multiple applications can lead to excess energy consumption and suboptimal performance. “Components are often oversized and consume more energy than is necessary,” Ducharme says.
Additionally, understanding flow and pressure needs is essential. Consulting an applications engineer can help determine the appropriate chiller specifications, ensuring the correct pressure and flow rate for each application. Proper airflow around the unit is also crucial, as adequate spacing allows for effective heat dissipation and optimal performance.
While there are no standardized water use ratings for chillers, labs can evaluate the Coefficient of Performance (COP), which measures the ratio of cooling power to energy consumed. Variable speed compressors help maintain efficiency at medium loads, though constant speed pumps can reduce COP at lower loads.
To ensure longevity and efficiency, labs should:
- Keep the condenser clean.
- Maintain coolant quality and replace or clean coolant filters.
- Check coolant hose connections for leaks.
- Use insulation on long coolant hoses to prevent heat loss and condensation.
By carefully selecting and maintaining recirculating chillers, labs can significantly enhance sustainability efforts, reducing both water and energy consumption while improving operational efficiency.
