Chiller Rentals: The Cold Truth

Chillers are machines that extract heat from liquids and work via absorption refrigeration, vapor compression or a combination of the two. In most applications, the chiller circulates the cooled liquid through a heat exchanger in order to cool equipment or the air itself.

Common Chiller Applications

The most common chiller use is as a component in an air conditioner. There are commercial chillers, which are large, standalone machines used for industrial purposes, such as cooling products and machinery in a manufacturing plant. Chillers are also used to maintain ice, which is an important measure for ice rinks, especially in warm climates.

Renting vs. Buying a Chiller

Whether to rent or buy a chiller depends largely on two things: how often the equipment will be used and budget. For instance, if a factory uses a chiller only during one season of the year, a rental makes a bit more sense. An ice rink, on the other hand, will typically require consistent cooling, so purchasing and maintaining one may be worthwhile. Renting or buying industrial equipment also has a lot to do with one's budget. If the cost of purchasing a chiller and keeping it in working order seems like too much, businesses can always rent the system for easier monthly payments. Even in the National Hockey League (NHL), most arenas opt to rent rather than buy.

Renting a Chiller

Chillers are available in air-cooled and water-cooled configurations, and both types are generally available in sizes as small as 10 tons and as large as 1,000 tons. There are also modular chillers available, which can be configured to fit nearly any ice rink or other application. First-time renters should seek at least three appraisals, which will provide a clear picture of the specific needs and the going rate.

The Rental Agreement

Read the fine print. In addition to basic costs, the rental agreement will outline the customer's responsibility; typically, delivery, pickup, setup and normal maintenance will be the obligation of the rental agency. The best rental company will also disclose all charges upfront, as hidden charges can significantly reduce the cost-effectiveness of the rental. Ice rinks should also consider long-term contracts for as-needed service, since these provide substantial discounts to the client in exchange for a loyalty guarantee.

Conclusion

A chiller rental is an effective and cost-efficient way to maintain an ice rink throughout the year. The primary culprit in poor rink condition is those often-brief periods where the rink's refrigeration cannot keep up with ambient temperatures. A chiller can maintain ice quality year-round, which saves on future maintenance costs and prevents undue strain on refrigeration and other machinery.