8 Things to Know Before Requesting a Process Chiller Quote

Choosing the right industrial process chiller starts with knowing the right information. Whether you’re launching a new facility or replacing outdated equipment, preparing a few key details ahead of time can make the quoting process faster, smoother, and more accurate.

That said, you don’t need to have everything figure out before contacting us. At Trane, our experts are here to help you assess your cooling needs. Even if you’re unsure about specific numbers or system requirements, we’ll guide you through the process to get the right solution for your operation.

In this guide, we’ll walk through some good things to know about your operation before reaching out to a Trane representative, so you get a quote tailored to your specific cooling needs with less back-and-forth.

Why Accurate Quoting Matters

A process chiller isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Accurate quoting helps to confirm that:

The chiller system you choose can handle your actual cooling load
You avoid under- or over-sizing, which can drive up operating costs
Installation and integration go smoothly from day one

Key Details to Provide When Requesting a Quote

1. Cooling Load (BTU/hr or Tons): Cooling load is the most critical detail to provide. It tells us how much heat needs to be removed from your process. If you’re unsure how to calculate it, your process equipment’s specs may include heat rejection values. We can also help you estimate it based on your setup. Tip: If you have a range of loads throughout the day, share that too. Variable loads can affect system selection.

2. Process Fluid Type and Temperature Requirements: What fluid will be cooled (e.g., water, glycol mix)? What is the required temperature of the fluid leaving and returning to the chiller?

Leaving Fluid Temp: What temp do you need the fluid to reach?
Entering Fluid Temp: How hot will it be when it returns?

Fluid type and temperature requirements determine both capacity and chiller design.

3. Flow Rate (GPM or LPM): Knowing the volume of fluid moving through your system per minute is essential. Flow rate helps confirm that the chiller can maintain proper temperatures during peak demand.

4. Power Supply (Voltage/Phase/Frequency): Electrical compatibility is key. Provide:

Voltage (e.g., 208V, 230V, 460V)
Phase (single-phase or three-phase)
Frequency (typically 60 Hz in the U.S.)

5. Installation Location and Ambient Conditions: Where will the chiller be located?

Indoors or outdoors?
Temperature extremes? (e.g., summer highs or winter lows)
Ventilation or space constraints?

Knowing the chiller location helps to select the appropriate enclosure, condenser type (air- or water-cooled), and weatherproofing options.

6. Cooling System Type: Are you working with a:

Closed-loop system (recirculating fluid)?
Open-loop system (fluid drawn from and returned to a tank or reservoir)?

Closed-loop chiller systems are more common in precision cooling environments.

7. Desired Control Features: Do you need remote monitoring, alarm notifications, or integration with a building management system (BMS)? Modern chillers often include smart control capabilities, but these features should match your operational needs.

8. Project Timeline and Budget Considerations: Sharing your project timeline helps us align availability and lead times. If you have a target budget, that can also guide the selection of features, options, or customizations.

Optional But Helpful Things to Know

Providing the following can further streamline the process:

Equipment data sheets or process diagrams
Historical energy or water usage data
Photographs or layout drawings of installation space

Make the Most of Your Chiller Quote Request

When you partner with Trane, you get more than just a product—you get expertise. The more complete your initial information, the quicker our team can design a cooling solution that fits your application perfectly.

But if you don’t have all the answers, that’s perfectly fine. Many customers come to us with just a basic idea of what they need, and our team helps fill in the gaps. We’re here to support you at every step.

Let’s Talk

Our team of Trane experts is ready to assist with sizing, specification, and equipment selection.

Ready to start your quote? Contact us today to connect with a Trane representative.

We’ll help you clarify your needs, walk you through your options, and recommend the right solution. Because when it comes to process cooling, precision starts with preparation.