Generally speaking, vertically oriented chillers perform a little better than horizontal chillers; this is due to the freedom of air movement. The circular or rounded corner design of vertical condensers give a more even flow of air as it is pulled across the fins, and generally easier vertical ejection of heat. On slab-type condensers of a horizontal model you'll get a larger percentage of air being drawn across the area nearest the fan. This is much better than blowing or forcing air across condensers as airflow will seek the path of least resistance. As a chiller company, we favor vertical chillers for:
- Concrete slab or near ground level installations. On very large industrial rooftops they are fine.
- The smaller footprint which is ideal for tight spaces.
- Air movement is much better and often less restricted just a few feet off the ground. So obstructions like fences and parapets don't block the flow as much.
- When on the ground there is usually less debris to block the condenser, and the units stay cleaner just a few feet off the ground.