1. What is Cooling Tower Efficiency?

Definition: This calculator determines the thermal performance of a cooling tower by comparing the actual temperature drop to the maximum possible temperature drop.

Purpose: It helps HVAC engineers and facility managers evaluate cooling tower performance and identify potential maintenance issues.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Cooling tower efficiency (dimensionless)
• \( T_{in} \) — Inlet water temperature (°F)
• \( T_{out} \) — Outlet water temperature (°F)
• \( T_{wb} \) — Ambient wet-bulb temperature (°F)

Explanation: The numerator represents the actual temperature drop, while the denominator represents the maximum possible temperature drop (approach to wet-bulb).

3. Importance of Cooling Tower Efficiency

Details: Monitoring efficiency helps optimize water and energy usage, maintain system performance, and schedule maintenance when efficiency drops below expected values.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all temperatures in °F. T_in must be greater than T_wb for valid results. Typical efficiency ranges from 60% to 75% (0.60 to 0.75).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good efficiency value?
A: Most cooling towers operate between 60-75% efficiency. Values below 50% may indicate scaling, fouling, or airflow problems.

Q2: Why use wet-bulb temperature?
A: Wet-bulb temperature represents the lowest possible water temperature achievable through evaporative cooling.

Q3: How often should efficiency be checked?
A: Monthly checks are recommended, with more frequent monitoring during peak cooling seasons or after maintenance.

Q4: What affects cooling tower efficiency?
A: Factors include air flow, water flow, fill condition, ambient conditions, and water treatment quality.

Q5: Can efficiency exceed 100%?
A: No, 100% would mean outlet temperature equals wet-bulb temperature, which is theoretically impossible in practice.