What is the typical inlet water temperature for a chiller?

The typical inlet water temperature for a chiller is indeed around 55°F. This temperature is commonly chosen as it provides a good balance between efficient cooling and system performance. Operating the chiller at this temperature helps to optimize the heat exchange process and ensures that the system can achieve the desired cooling load effectively.

Chillers are designed to remove heat from a fluid, usually water, which then is circulated to maintain desired temperatures in a building or process. The 55°F inlet temperature is suitable for most applications, allowing for efficient condensation and evaporation processes in the chiller cycle.

Choosing other temperatures, such as 45°F, 50°F, or 60°F, may not align as closely with standard operational practices for most commercial chillers. A lower inlet temperature could lead to inefficient operation and potential issues with frost formation, while a higher temperature like 60°F might not provide sufficient cooling capacity for typical loads.