U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Federal Energy Management Program – Operations and Maintenance

Chiller Maintenance

As with boilers, effective maintenance of chillers requires two activities: first, bring the chiller to peak efficiency, and second, maintain that peak efficiency. There are some basic steps facility professionals can take to make sure their building's chillers are being maintained properly.

Key Steps for Best Performance

• Inspect the chiller as recommended by the chiller manufacturer. Typically, this should be done at least quarterly.
• Routinely inspect for refrigerant leaks.
• Check compressor operating pressures.
• Check all oil levels and pressures.
• Examine all motor voltages and amps.
• Check all electrical starters, contactors, and relays.
• Check all hot gas and unloader operations.
• Use superheat and subcooling temperature readings to obtain a chiller's maximum efficiency.
• Take discharge line temperature readings.

Maintenance Checklist