Estimating Boilers vs Chillers: Cost Differences Explained

When it comes to an HVAC system of a building, the process of Estimating Boiler vs Chiller is a crucial one. Both of them are responsible for controlling the temperature in a building. But, they differ from each other to a great extent because of their cost variations as well as their applications.

That is what we will uncover in this article, thus helping you understand not only the cost difference but other essential factors as well. But first, let’s have a general discussion about them individually to have a better understanding of Boiler vs Chiller Estimation.

What is a Boiler in an HVAC System?

In an HVAC system, a boiler, as its name suggests, heats the water to create steam. This water or steam is then used to provide heat to the entire building. It consists of a closed vessel and is a key component in a building’s heating system. It distributes heat through the pipes to the entire building. 

Primary Components of a Boiler

Let’s have a look at the main components of a boiler:

• Burner

This component is used to ignite the fuel source

• Heat Exchanger

This component is utilized to transfer the heat from the combustion process to whatever is required, either water or steam.

• Combustion Chamber

This is the space where the fuel is burned. For heating water or creating steam.

• Piping System

This system is responsible for distributing the heated water to steam to the desired places.

Types of Boilers

This discussion is aimed at providing you with the information about various types of Boilers:

• Gas Boilers

A brand new gas boiler costs around $1450 -$5725. This price range is for the unit alone; if labour costs are added, then this range will surely go up. As these boilers need several connections, such as to a gas line, plumbing, vents, etc.

• Propane Boilers

This boiler’s price starts from $1800 and can go up to $4450. Although Propane costs more as compared to gas, it burns more efficiently than natural gas.

• Electric Boilers

One of the most expensive boilers for an HVAC system is due to its running costs. A new electric boiler price falls in the range of $1250 – $6250.

Now that you have accessed all the essential knowledge about boilers, their key components, and major types. Let’s start the discussion about Chillers in an HVAC system.

Chiller – An Introductory Overview

When discussing a chiller in an HVAC system, it is responsible for removing heat from the liquid. This chilled liquid is then distributed throughout the building to cool the air.

Key Elements of a Chiller

The following are the key elements of a chiller in an HVAC system:

• Compressor

It is responsible for controlling the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant.

• Condenser

This component makes sure that the heat is absorbed by the refrigerant.

• Evaporator

An Evaporator absorbs the heat from the space

• Expansion Valve

This valve ensures that the flow of the refrigerant is regulated into the evaporator.

Types of Chillers

Let’s have a look at the most popular types of chillers:

• Air Conditioners

These chillers are best for a standard-sized home. The price for a 1-ton chiller is around $1000. As the capacity increases, the price will also increase. For instance, for a 5-ton chiller, the price will be somewhere around $3275.

• Water Cooled Chillers

These chillers are appropriate for large buildings, but for large buildings, they will require extra components such as pumps or cooling towers.

Now that you have a general understanding of what Boilers and chillers are composed of. Let’s have a look at where the cost difference lies during estimation.

Cost Difference Between Boilers and Chillers

Boilers are typically more costly but it mainly depends upon the project. If you are looking for an exact cost estimate, then Mechanical Estimating Services can assist you. Professionals will estimate the costs of boilers and chillers by keeping the following factors in mind:

• Size or Capacity

Boilers and more expensive when compared to chillers. This is because they consist of more components as compared to chillers.

• Type of Fuel

Another reason why boilers are more expensive is the fuel type they use to operate. There are various fuel types for a boiler system when compared to a chiller.

• Equipment

The installation process of a Boiler is much more complex than compared of a chiller. On the other hand, except for water-cooled chillers for industrial buildings, the chiller installation process is relatively easy.

At this point in the article, you have gained a clear understanding of each element. To acquire accurate estimates for either boiler or chiller, make sure to hire reliable Residential Estimators. Choose SMAMEP Estimate for estimating your home’s HVAC system. They will make sure that each step is thoroughly considered and executed by covering all the essential aspects.

Conclusion

For Estimating Boiler vs Chiller, it is important to know what each system encompasses. Having this information will help you steer through the estimation process more efficiently. Thus, this article can help you with that by covering what each system is composed of. Furthermore, having a professional by your side, you do not have to worry about the complexities that are involved. They will make sure that you get the most cost-effective solutions with the best possible outcomes.