29/09/2026
The ‘before’ and ‘after’ images of a recent project at a 17-story mixed-occupancy building - comprising of hotel accommodation and privately owned apartments.
Each apartment is serviced by chilled water fan coil units incorporating electric heating elements and the base building is served by two 900 kW chillers, supplying approximately 6.7°C chilled water to the building 24 hours a day.
The Problem
Regular machine logs identified that the condenser approach was higher than expected and had been gradually increasing over time.
During annual servicing, further investigation identified significant deterioration of the condenser sacrificial anodes. The removed anodes were almost completely disintegrated, with a significant accumulation of scale, rust and debris settled within the base of the condenser tubes. The condition of the condenser indicated that water-side fouling and corrosion were contributing to the reduced heat transfer performance.
The Solution
The team carried out the repair, including:
- Mechanical cleaning and descaling of the condenser tubes
- Removal of scale, rust and debris
- Cleaning and corrosion treatment of affected components
- Replacement of sacrificial anodes
- Fabrication and installation of a new gasket
- Recommissioning and performance testing
Following the works, the chiller demonstrated improved condenser performance and operating efficiency.
The important part wasn't simply restoring the chiller, it was identifying and addressing the underlying condition before it could lead to further deterioration, increased energy consumption or unplanned downtime.
It’s a good example of why regular monitoring, planned servicing and preventative maintenance matter for critical HVAC assets.
Contact us to find out more about this case study a www.graybros.com.au.