In the HVAC industry, achieving operational excellence often begins with optimising chiller performance, and for good reason. As one of the most energy-intensive components in HVAC systems, chillers present a significant opportunity for improving energy efficiency and overall system reliability.

Proactive maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan of HVAC equipment, reducing operating costs, and minimizing unexpected failures. Research shows that regular maintenance can:

• Cut unexpected breakdowns by 70-75%
• Reduce downtime by 35-45%
• Lower equipment repair and maintenance costs by 25-30%
• Reduce energy consumption by 5-20%

However, to truly maximize these benefits, integrating advanced diagnostic techniques into maintenance routines is crucial.

What are the most efficient maintenance techniques that can help facility managers and HVAC technical professionals achieve these goals? Let’s look at a few.

Trivector Oil Analysis
One advanced diagnostic technique that has proven highly effective is Trivector Oil Analysis. This method involves sending an oil sample to a laboratory for rigorous testing to assess wear, chemistry, and contamination levels. The detailed report generated from this analysis offers invaluable data that can:

• Identify early wear and tear: Detecting early signs of wear can prevent minor issues from escalating into major failures.
• Monitor chemical stability: Ensuring the chemical stability of the oil helps maintain optimal chiller performance.
• Detect contaminants: Identifying contaminants early can prevent damage to critical components.


Eddy Current Testing
Another valuable diagnostic tool is Eddy Current Testing, a non-destructive method used to monitor the integrity of heat exchanger tubes. Some key benefits include:

• Early detection of corrosion and cracks: Identifying these issues early can prevent costly repairs and downtime.
• Prolonging tube life: Regular monitoring helps in planning timely maintenance, thereby extending the life of the tubes.
• Optimizing heat transfer efficiency: Ensuring the tubes are in good condition helps maintain optimal heat transfer efficiency, reducing energy consumption.

Implementing advanced diagnostics in chiller maintenance has shown tangible benefits in facilities ranging from office buildings requiring comfort cooling to factories requiring precise process cooling.

Techniques like Trivector Oil Analysis and Eddy Current Testing provide deeper insights into equipment health, enabling more effective and proactive maintenance strategies. By leveraging these advanced tools, facility managers can ensure their chillers operate reliably and efficiently, ultimately protecting their investments and reducing ownership costs.

Trane’s Chiller Health Check program packages up these advanced maintenance techniques into one service program. Let us make it easy for you to have more efficient chillers.
Health Check your chiller today