What is the primary function of a chiller in an HVAC system?

The primary function of a chiller in an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is to remove heat from a liquid. This is essential for cooling applications, where the chiller is responsible for transferring heat away from a designated area or fluid, thus lowering the temperature of that area or fluid.

Chillers typically use a refrigeration cycle that involves refrigerants to absorb heat from water or another liquid that is then circulated through the building to cool the air or processes. The chilled liquid can be used to cool air in air handling units, providing comfort in occupied spaces or maintaining required temperatures in industrial processes. This function is fundamental to achieving efficient climate control within a building, making it a key component of many HVAC systems.

In contrast, increasing humidity, circulating air, or providing ventilation are functions of different components within the HVAC system, such as humidifiers, fans, and ventilation systems. These serve separate purposes and do not pertain specifically to the chiller's role in heat removal.