What is the first step to start a centrifugal chiller?

To start a centrifugal chiller, the first step is to start the chilled water pump. This is crucial because the chilled water pump circulates the water through the system and allows the chilled water to flow into the building’s cooling distribution system. If the chilled water pump is not operating, there would be no flow of chilled water to absorb heat and deliver to the chiller, leading to inefficiency or potential damage to the system.

Establishing flow through the system ensures that the chiller can operate effectively and safely. Once the chilled water pump is running and circulating water, subsequent steps such as starting the condenser water pump and the compressor can be undertaken, as they depend on the operation of the chilled water circuit to function properly.