What is the proper installation method for a chiller mounted on the roof of a commercial building?

Mounting chillers on isolation springs is the proper installation method for several important reasons. First, chillers generate operational vibrations during their functioning. These vibrations can negatively impact both the equipment itself and the surrounding structure if not properly managed. Isolation springs help absorb and mitigate these vibrations, ensuring smoother operation and reducing noise levels.

Additionally, using isolation springs helps to prevent excessive stress on the roofing materials and the structural components of the building. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the roof over time. Isolation systems also accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, helping to prolong the lifespan of both the chiller and the building structure.

The other methods, while they may seem plausible in some contexts, do not provide the same level of protection against vibrational impacts or dynamic loads that isolation springs offer. For example, simply placing the chiller on concrete blocks may not adequately address vibration issues, while fastening it directly to the roof could transmit vibrations and noise into the building, leading to potential damage and discomfort for occupants. Additionally, installing a chiller without any support would compromise its stability and safety. Therefore, the use of isolation springs is the most suitable and effective method for installing a chiller on the roof of a commercial building.