What is chilled water used for in air conditioning?

Chilled water is used in air conditioning systems primarily because it is water that has been cooled by a mechanical refrigeration system. This process involves removing heat from the water, thereby lowering its temperature. The chilled water is then circulated through air handling units or fan coil units, where it absorbs heat from the indoor air. This results in a cooling effect, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

The use of a mechanical refrigeration system is crucial because it allows for an efficient and controlled way to achieve the low temperatures needed for effective cooling. In contrast, heated water or evaporative cooling methods do not achieve the same results as chilled water in air conditioning systems. Other applications, such as irrigation, are unrelated to the cooling function served by chilled water in climate control.