What Is The Difference Between Chiller And AHU?

What is the Difference Between Chiller and AHU

Chillers and Air Handling Units (AHUs) are both essential components of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, but they serve different purposes.

Chiller

Function: A chiller is a machine that removes heat from a liquid via a vapor-compression or absorption refrigeration cycle. The cooled liquid, usually water, is then circulated to other parts of the HVAC system.

Purpose: Primarily used for cooling purposes. It provides chilled water that is used in cooling coils or other equipment within the system.

Types: There are air-cooled and water-cooled chillers, which differ based on how they dissipate heat.

Location: Typically located outdoors or in mechanical rooms.

Air Handling Unit (AHU)

Function: An AHU is a device that conditions and circulates air as part of the HVAC system. It often includes components such as fans, filters, heating/cooling coils, and dampers.

Purpose: Used for both heating and cooling. It conditions and distributes air to maintain desired temperature and humidity levels in spaces.

Components: May include filters, heat exchangers, humidifiers, and blowers, facilitating air quality and comfort.

Location: Usually found indoors, often in basements or on rooftops.

Chillers focus on cooling a liquid (typically water) and are part of the cooling process.

AHUs handle the air, conditioning and distributing it, and can provide heating as well as cooling.