LEED Green Associate Practice Test

What function does a chiller serve in a building?

1. Heating water for the building

2. Removing heat from a liquid for cooling

3. Generating electricity for the building

4. Purifying air in the building

The correct answer is: Removing heat from a liquid for cooling

The function of a chiller in a building is to remove heat from a liquid, which is typically water or a water-glycol mixture, to provide cooling for the building. This process involves circulating the chilled liquid through a cooling system, often to air handling units or fan coils, which cools the air in the space. Chillers are essential in air conditioning systems, as they help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures by removing excess heat, making them critical components in the cooling cycle of HVAC systems. The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of a chiller. Heating water pertains to the function of a boiler or a water heater, which is designed to increase the temperature of water for providing heat. Generating electricity is typically handled by generators or power systems, not chillers. Purifying air involves ventilation and filtration systems, which are designed to enhance air quality rather than remove heat from liquids. Thus, the role of a chiller is specifically focused on the removal of heat for cooling purposes.