Small Business Guide: When to Upgrade from Traditional Cooling to Screw Chillers 

Is your cooling system holding back your business growth? Discover when it’s time to move from traditional units to modern screw chillers that deliver efficiency, reliability, and long-term savings. 

Cooling systems perform a subtle yet integral role in day-to-day functions for many small to mid-sized businesses. Cooling systems support safe machine operating temperatures, as well as comfortable environmental temperatures for employees; such a system can dramatically impact efficiencies and costs. However, many businesses still utilize older systems that consume more energy and have excessive maintenance needs. 

With industries feeding into the growing competition for consumer attention and rising energy prices across North America, selecting the best option for cooling becomes more strategic than mechanical. At this point, screw chillers enter the conversation. Screw chillers represent modern efficiency and are designed for both small and large-scale cooling needs. 

This guide will help small business owners understand what screw chillers are, when to consider upgrading, the types available, and the benefits they can deliver in the long run. 

What Are Screw Chillers? 

A screw chiller is a type of cooling system that uses a screw compressor to move and compress refrigerant. Inside the compressor, two helical rotors rotate together, squeezing the refrigerant gas and releasing heat in the process. This design allows screw chillers to deliver a steady flow of cooling without the fluctuations often seen in older systems. 

Unlike traditional chillers that may struggle with variable loads, chillers with screw compressors perform reliably even when the cooling demand changes during the day. They are also known for being more energy efficient compared to many older technologies. 

Screw chillers are commonly used in industries that require consistent temperature control, such as plastics, food processing, and data centers. For small businesses, they offer a scalable option that balances performance and cost-effectiveness. 

When to Upgrade: Key Signs for Small Businesses 

Every cooling system is eventually outgrown by a business. Identifying these indications beforehand allows you to prevent the extra costs that come with breakdowns and maintenance. 

For example, continuously rising electricity bills can be a symptom of the situation. Generally, standard cooling appliances tend to draw more energy as they get older, thus their operating efficiency is lowered. Another obvious symptom is the repetition of failures or longer repairing periods. Both will lead to the stopping of production and the loss of work. 

Temperature fluctuations are also a red flag. If your system struggles to maintain steady conditions, it may not be able to handle critical processes like food storage, precision manufacturing, or server cooling. Finally, when your business expands and your cooling requirements grow, older systems often fail to keep up. 

At this stage, many businesses begin considering advanced solutions such as an air cooled screw chiller or a water cooled screw chiller, both of which are built to handle larger and more demanding loads. 

Types of Screw Chillers 

Screw chillers are available in different designs to match the cooling needs of businesses. The three most common types are air-cooled, water-cooled, and ammonia-based screw chillers. 

Air Cooled Screw Chiller 

This system removes heat by using the surrounding air. It is easier to install, requires less maintenance, and does not need a cooling tower. Because of its lower water usage, it is suitable for small and medium businesses where water conservation is important. Industries like HVAC, plastics, and light manufacturing often choose this option. 

Water Cooled Screw Chiller 

This system uses water circulation to remove heat, which allows it to deliver higher efficiency and steady performance. It is well-suited for large facilities such as data centers, pharmaceuticals, and heavy manufacturing plants. While it needs a cooling tower and regular maintenance, it offers excellent long-term efficiency. 

Ammonia Screw Chiller 

Ammonia is an eco-friendly refrigerant with strong thermodynamic properties. Screw chillers that use ammonia provide reliable performance for industries that demand large-scale cooling, such as food processing, cold storage, and chemicals. Many ammonia chiller manufacturers focus on safety and environmental standards, making these systems both powerful and sustainable. 

Benefits of Screw Chillers 

Upgrading to screw chillers offers several advantages for small businesses that are ready to move beyond traditional cooling systems. 

One of the biggest benefits is energy efficiency. Screw chillers are designed to use power more effectively, which can reduce monthly electricity bills and lower overall operating costs. They also provide consistent cooling performance, which is important for businesses that depend on stable temperatures for quality control and safety. 

Another strength is reliability. Built with strong compressors and advanced controls, screw chillers are less prone to frequent breakdowns compared to older systems. They are also versatile and can adapt to different load requirements, whether cooling needs are steady or change throughout the day. 

Finally, screw chillers support sustainability goals. With refrigerant options like ammonia and modern HFC-free gases, they help businesses reduce environmental impact while meeting efficiency standards. 

Considerations Before Upgrading 

While screw chillers provide clear advantages, businesses should carefully review a few factors before making the switch. 

The first is cost. Screw chillers require a higher upfront investment compared to some traditional systems. However, their long-term savings in energy and maintenance often balance out the initial expense. 

Another factor is space. Air cooled screw chillers take up less room and are easier to set up, while water cooled systems need a cooling tower and more infrastructure support. Businesses should assess their available space and resources before deciding. 

Safety is also important, especially when working with refrigerants like ammonia. These systems need expert handling and strict safety measures to ensure smooth operations. 

Finally, regular maintenance and professional installation are essential for keeping performance at its best. Partnering with experienced technicians helps maximize the value of the investment. 

Making the Right Cooling Upgrade 

For small businesses, the decision to upgrade from traditional cooling to screw chillers is often driven by the need for efficiency, reliability, and long-term value. Screw chillers offer energy savings, consistent performance, and eco-friendly options, making them a smart choice for companies that are scaling up or dealing with rising operational demands. 

At Refcon Chillers, we manufacture and supply a wide range of screw chillers, including air cooled, water cooled, and ammonia-based systems. Our products are built with advanced compressors, durable materials, and sustainable refrigerants to ensure long-term performance. 

If you are ready to upgrade your cooling system, get in touch with us at Refcon Chillers. We will help you choose the right solution that balances efficiency, cost, and sustainability for your business.