How can I protect my chiller during a shutdown?
If your process is being shut down for a holiday period, planned maintenance, or a longer period of inactivity, taking a few precautions can help to protect your chiller and make restarting the system easier.
The correct shutdown procedure will depend on the chiller model, process fluid, operating environment, and length of shutdown, so always refer to the operating manual for your particular ATC chiller.
For longer-term storage of where there is risk of freezing, contact ATC if you are unsure of the appropriate procedure.
What should I do before a short shutdown?
For a routine or relatively short shutdown, follow the normal shutdown procedure provided in your chiller’s operating manual.
Before leaving the equipment, it is also a good opportunity to:
- Check the chiller and application for fluid leaks
- Check the process fluid level and condition
- Inspect the condenser of an air-cooled chiller for accumulated dust or debris
- Check hoses, pipework, and connections for visible damage
- Make sure the chiller will remain in a suitable indoor environment while it is switched off
Do not automatically drain or replace the process fluid simply because the chiller is being switched off for a short period.
Should I drain my chiller during a shutdown?
This depends on the equipment and the expected length and conditions of the shutdown.
For longer-term storage, decommissioning, or circumstances where the chiller could be exposed to temperatures that create a freezing risk, additional precautions may be necessary.
Follow the storage and shutdown instructions provided in the operating manual for your specific chiller. If the manual does not cover your circumstances, contact ATC before draining, flushing, or storing the equipment.
How do I protect my chiller from freezing?
The first consideration is to make sure that the chiller is stored within the environmental conditions specified for the equipment.
The process fluid is also important. Standard ATC chillers use approved Hexid or CoolFlow inhibited glycol-based coolants, with the appropriate fluid and concentration selected for the operating conditions.
Do not add additional antifreeze, water, or another fluid to the chiller independently in preparation for a shutdown. Changing the fluid or its concentration can affect its thermal and physical properties and may affect its suitability for the equipment.
If the chiller could be exposed to low temperatures during shutdown or storage, check the model-specific instructions and contact ATC if you are unsure whether additional precautions are required.
Should I flush the chiller before storing it?
Do not routinely flush an ATC chiller with tap water or an unspecified cleaning product before storage?
Untreated tap water is not an approved process fluid for standard ATC chillers. Introducing water or an incompatible cleaning product could also leave residues within the coolant circuit.
If the process fluid is contaminated, degraded, or needs to be replaced before storage, follow the maintenance guidance for your particular chiller and fluid, or contact ATC for advice on the appropriate procedure.
What if the process fluid is contaminated?
A shutdown can be a useful opportunity to inspect the condition of the process fluid.
If you notice contamination, unusual deposits, or a significant change in the appearance or condition of the fluid, do not simply top it up or mix it with another coolant.
The condition of the wider cooling circuit may need to be considered before fresh fluid is introduced.
Contact ATC if you are unsure whether the fluid should be replaced or whether further cleaning or maintenance is required.
Should I clean the chiller before a shutdown?
Basic external maintenance can be useful before an extended shutdown.
For an air-cooled chiller, check that the condenser is free from accumulated dust and debris. A vacuum cleaner can be used for routine condenser cleaning where appropriate, but compressed air should not be used to blow out the condenser.
Always isolate the electrical power supply before carrying out cleaning and refer to the model-specific operating manual before removing covers or panels.
What should I check before restarting the chiller?
After an extended shutdown, visually inspect the chiller and cooling circuit before returning the equipment to service.
Check:
- Process fluid level and condition
- Hoses, pipework, and connections
- Signs of leaks
- Condenser and ventilation areas
- Electrical connections and power supply
- The surrounding operating environment
Follow the start-up procedure in your model-specific operating manual.
If the chiller has been stored for a prolonged period, its fluid has been drained, or you have concerns about its condition, contact ATC before restarting it.
Is a shutdown a good time to arrange maintenance?
A planned shutdown can provide a convenient opportunity to carry out preventative maintenance without disrupting normal production, testing, or research activities.
ATC recommends preventative maintenance at least annually. Our Service team can inspect the condition and operation of the chiller and identify potential issues before the equipment is returned to normal use.
If you are planning an extended shutdown, restarting equipment after a long period of storage, or are unsure how your particular chiller should be prepared, contact ATC for advice.
