G&D Chillers, Inc.

130 E 1rst Ave, Junction City, OR, United States of America, 97448

March 1, 2026

How to Replace Pump Seal with Paul
Learn about us: www.gdchillers.com We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us here: http://gdchillers.com/contact-product-support/

March 1, 2026

10 Easy Steps - Vertical Air Startup
We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us.

March 1, 2026

Carel Control Navigation
We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us here: https://gdchillers.com/contact-product-support/

March 1, 2026

How to Connect Remote Monitor
We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us here: https://gdchillers.com/contact-product-support/

March 1, 2026

What Is the Proper Glycol to Water Percentage or Mixture?
We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us here: http://gdchillers.com

March 1, 2026

G&D Chillers - Heat Reclaim Overview with Paul
Learn about us: www.gdchillers.com We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us here: http://gdchillers.com/contact-product-support/

March 1, 2026

How To Maximize Efficiency In Your Chiller?
• A lighter, more efficient, and environmentally friendly chiller. • G&D’s Micro-channel Condensers are designed for less power draw, lighter weight and a more compact design. • 70% less refrigerant = lower GWP and lower operating costs.

March 1, 2026

GD Chillers Worlds Best Chiller
Learn about us: www.gdchillers.com We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us here: http://gdchillers.com/contact-product-support/

March 1, 2026

G&D Chillers Virtual Tradeshow-Wine Chillers Q&A with Justin
Learn about us: www.gdchillers.com We are here to help you, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800.555.0973 or message us here: http://gdchillers.com/contact-product-support/

March 1, 2026

About GD Chillers Meet The Team
We at G&D recognize that everyone’s needs might not be exactly the same. Our Engineers are here to service all your glycol chilling needs with our commitment to cold, whether it is a standard unit or completely ground up design. We proudly build Hard Core Chillers, offering higher quality with a sa

March 1, 2026

G&D Chillers Are Built in the USA

There are many considerations as well as concerns as you navigate through chiller sizing, selection, install then startup of your new chiller system. One concern that arises every now and then is the origin or country of manufacture of your potential new chiller. For over 25 years G&D Chillers has used non-proprietary parts. We use the highest quality components in every chiller that we build. Our multiprocessor controller to every motor throughout our package chillers can be sourced locally at your refrigeration supply house. If you are rural, we can ship directly from those parts stores or from our factory in Eugene, Oregon.

We stand firm behind a no proprietary build because we have been there, out in the field, waiting on a component with a desperate production manager, dead in the water with a broken chiller. Ours? Never! Okay, sometimes. The reality is we are very transparent on the issue. Take care of your chiller and it will take care of you but, it is a piece of equipment and over time you will have an issue. It is the proverbial, “not if but, when”. Now, when this happens, who are you calling? We recommend to our customers to call us first. We can usually get the chiller running over the phone. If needed, we can then determine to get your local technician out. Does the chiller manufacturer offer 24/7 tech support over the phone? If not, look elsewhere because you are going to have to make a call to somebody and it should be them. They built the thing, right? Whether at start up or any other situation, you must not underestimate the ability to communicate and get some help.

Your new chiller is going to be the most critical functioning piece of equipment at your production facility. Everything depends on it properly working. At G&D, we take seriously the relationships we develop with our customers. We are not satisfied with anything less than perfection. Our partnerships sustain our reputation. You will forfeit that level of accountability if you source an overseas chiller. Most would consider everything I’ve said here as some common sense considerations. However, from time to time, people make the mistake of letting their production rest on the shoulders of a poorly built foreign chiller. To them, here is our number: 800.555.0973. It is likely you are fed up and ready for a new, made in the USA, G&D Chiller. Give us a call, we are happy to have the opportunity! To the rest of you, keep your faith in the red, white and blue!

https://gdchillers.com/built-in-the-usa/

March 1, 2026

G&D Chillers’ Elite 290 Series: Eco-Friendly Cooling with Advanced Propane Technology

Come talk to us about our new Elite 290 propane series, utilizes propane as a natural refrigerant with near zero global warming potential.  G&D Chillers takes pride in being the first in the chiller industry to introduce propane as a natural refrigerant offering. A safer, more effective, and efficient chilling technology. The Elite 290 series is designed to be future-proof, exempt from HFC phase-out programs, ensuring longevity and sustainability. Designed to propel businesses towards a better future.

G&D Chillers, Inc.
WIN Expo Booth: 135

We are a dedicated provider of Standard Winery Chillers, as well as Custom Chilling Units, for Wineries throughout the world. With G&D Engineered Winery Chillers installed in over 2,900 Wineries, we have the experience and the know-how to manufacture units to meet, and even exceed, the needs of the wine industry. Over the years, we have helped numerous startup Wineries build their businesses from the ground up. We have found that discussing a few simple ideas about your long-term plans can save you time and allow your winery to expand without requiring retrofitting. Let us assist you in matching a Winery Chilling unit to your present needs and to your future demands as your customer base grows.



March 1, 2026

Revolutionizing Refrigeration: Insights from Frascold’s Matteo Iobbi on Propane and G&D’s New Elite 290 Chillers

Paul Johnson, G&D’s Director of Technology and R&D

In the ever-evolving refrigeration industry, advancements in technology and materials are crucial for achieving peak performance and meeting today’s challenge of mitigating climate change. One standout innovation is the use of propane (R290) as a refrigerant, a topic we recently explored with Matteo Iobbi, CTO of Frascold, a leading global manufacturer of the most technologically advanced, semi-hermetic compressors on the market today. Frascold partnered with us at G&D Chillers for our new Elite 290 propane chiller line.

Propane’s success in Europe stems from early adoption in niche markets, proving its energy efficiency, versatility, and effectiveness. Over time, stringent regulations on high Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants accelerated propane’s integration. Today, propane is a staple in mass-produced products such as heat pumps and cooling units across Europe.

As we officially launch this line using alternative refrigerants in the U.S., Matteo shared his insights on propane’s ascent in Europe over the past decade and what American end users can anticipate. Read on for our informative Q&A with Matteo.

What is your role at Frascold? 

My daily role involves relationships with customers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the refrigeration HVAC industry. This requires a tight exchange of information with our departments in our headquarters in Italy in order to better serve the U.S. market and tailoring our products.

I am also involved in industry events and initiatives where I can share insights on the latest Frascold technologies and pilot programs around the world.

How has propane taken off in Europe? And why do you think it’s been successful? 

The widespread use of this refrigerant is related to its implementation in mass production products such as heat-pumps and cooling units. The success of the R290 refrigerant comes from decades of niche market implementation, demonstrating its energy efficiency, versatility and effectiveness. Regulations on the use of high-GWP refrigerants has, of course, been an accelerator.

As propane begins to take off in the U.S., what recommendations do you have for the end-user? What should they be aware of based on what you’ve seen in Europe?

Ensure that end-users are aware of proper installation, maintenance procedures, and safety guidelines in order to mitigate any risks. Maintenance engineers have to be trained to handle flammable refrigerant and safety devices.

We’ve seen huge benefits of the Elite 290 line, both in efficiency and near-zero global warming potential. What are the major factors that have contributed to the growth and demand in the European market?

The fact that R290 operates within the pressure ranges that manufacturers are used to dealing with, together with efficiency levels and increased public awareness on direct and indirect emissions, have strongly contributed to the growth.

Again, the regulations made the next step in pushing this technology forward easier.

In summary, what are some of the biggest drivers for customers moving toward propane refrigeration like our Elite 290 line?

Outstanding seasonal efficiency, therefore indirect emissions reduced, and negligible direct emissions due to use of R290, are the main drivers. A thorough study has been done of the Elite 290, in order to minimize the charge. Being a chiller with a very low refrigerant charge, for outside installation, with state-of-the-art protection devices make the unit operationally extremely safe. Safety and seasonal efficiency are, in my opinion, the drivers.

Were there any concerns or barriers for customers choosing propane? If so, what solutions have you seen work and have helped drive growth in the market?

The main barrier, like in any other disrupting situations, is “we have always done it this way.” The development of dedicated safety standards and the use of advanced technology has helped to overcome these barriers. Training and education regarding safety, handling, and installation guidelines together with clear maintenance procedures have alleviated the concerns and grown the self-assurance on this type of product.

Do you have any knowledge of where the U.S. regulatory authorities are in writing new codes or standards in allowing R290 to be more mainstream?

We at Frascold are closely following the evolution of the U.S. standards such as ASHRAE 15 and UL 60335-2-40, as well as the EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program. They are all moving towards the development of clear safety requirements as well as increasing the limits of the refrigerant charges.

Leading the Charge

G&D Chillers stands at the forefront of this refrigeration revolution, setting new benchmarks in efficiency and safety. As the U.S. market embraces propane, insights from industry leaders like Matteo Iobbi at Frascold underscore the importance of rigorous training, robust safety protocols, and compliance with evolving regulations. Together, we can forge a greener, more efficient future for refrigeration.

To discover your custom chilling solution, schedule your consultation with G&D Chillers’ exceptional engineering team today.

March 1, 2026

Chillin’ in the Winter - How to Keep Your Glycol Chiller Operating Reliably with Old Man Winter Breathing Down Your Neck

Most people enjoy a snow filled winter, but all that weather can have some adverse effects on your glycol chiller. There are areas of the nation that experience extreme weather conditions. Heavy snowfall, freezing rain, ice storms and extreme low ambient conditions. Here are a few topics to keep in mind as the winter chill approaches.

Your glycol chiller is built to handle the worst conditions that mother nature can bring. That being said, snowfall is a hard one to combat. Excessive snow builds up around the chiller can prevent the proper air flow through the condenser causing nuisance shutdowns or alarms. Shoveling snow is not something most people look forward to, but it is an essential part of keeping your chiller operable. Keep in mind the minimum clearances of the chiller. Three feet of clearance on the intake side and open to free air (no obstructions) on the exhaust side. Heavy snow may bring treachery in other forms as well. With a snowpack on your roof and an unsuspecting chiller sitting below, ouch! All that snow can slide off a building and crush your glycol chiller. Ice can have the same effect. Heavy icicles breaking from an overhang can cause severe damage.

Usually with precipitation comes low ambient temperatures. If you have your glycol chiller located in an area that sees temperatures dip down to the low single digits, we should talk about your glycol mixture. G&D chillers operate at 35% glycol to water ratio (26.5 brix) but increasing that mixture to 40% (29.3 brix) in extreme low ambient conditions may be recommended. That effectively lowers the freeze protection of the glycol to an acceptable level. Even in temperatures below 0°F, a 40% mix coupled with keeping a pump running will prevent the piping from freezing. Keeping that flow moving through the process is key. It’s the same concept as rivers and lakes. Flowing river water will rarely freeze, but stagnant water in lakes or ponds will.

It is highly recommended to leave power to your glycol chiller during winter. However, these winter storms can bring unexpected outages. A power outage with extreme low ambient temperatures can be disastrous to your glycol chiller. If the outage lasts only a couple hours, you won’t really have anything to worry about. In the event of an extended outage, some steps need to be taken to protect the chiller. The best option would be a generator. This generator does not need to be sized large enough to power the entire chiller, just big enough to keep your pump running to provide flow and ultimate freeze protection. At an absolute minimum, a generator to run a space heater. Placing the heater in front of the chiller and covering it in tarps will keep it from freezing solid. The worst-case scenario would be to drain the glycol reservoir and all your plumbing to avoid freezing. Think about a glass bottle full of water in the freezer. It will expand and break.

Winter storms could also prevent you from even being able to reach your facility. The roads may be impassable. Keep an eye on the weather report and take precautionary measures as needed. If you don’t expect to be able to make it to the facility, leave the chiller running. Keep tank valves open, even if they are empty, to keep glycol moving. This can also help put an ambient load on the chiller to keep glycol temperatures up. These tips will also apply if you are planning a production shut down during the winter.  If you have any questions about chillin’ in the winter, just give us a shout!

https://gdchillers.com/chillin-in-the-winter/ 

July 7, 2025

Natural Performance: Propane Chillers Prove Their Power in the Field

Last month at the ATMO Summit (June 11, 2025), our COO, Scott Timms, hit the stage to share a real-world case study featuring our Elite 290 propane chiller in action at New Belgium Brewing. It was a great chance to show how natural refrigerants—especially R290 (aka propane)—aren’t just better for the environment, but also a smart, real-world solution for a wide range of industries.

From breweries and food processors to industrial facilities and beyond, propane is proving it can deliver serious cooling power—without the climate cost.

 Why Are People Switching to Natural Refrigerants?

Let’s face it—HFCs are on the way out. With new rules rolling in and environmental pressure mounting, more businesses are looking for refrigerants that are low-impact, energy-efficient, and future-proof.

That’s where propane (R290) comes in:

  • Ultra-low GWP (Global Warming Potential)
  • High efficiency = lower energy bills
  • It’s been used safely in systems around the world for years
  • And yes—it’s totally doable in the U.S. with the right design and support

 Meet the Elite 290: Built for Today’s Cooling Needs

Our Elite 290 line is built from the ground up for R290. Whether you’re chilling wort, milk, or industrial process water, this system was designed to deliver high performance with a light environmental footprint.

Highlights include:

  • Super-efficient performance = reduced operating costs
  • Compact refrigerant charge + integrated safety features
  • UL-compliant and ready to roll in even the most regulation-heavy states
  • Air-cooled, semi-hermetic compressors, and flexible design options to fit your facility

 Case Study Spotlight: New Belgium Brewing

At the summit, Scott shared New Belgium Brewing’s results with their Elite 290 propane chiller – according to Andy Collins, Carbon Neutral Engineer at New Belgium Brewing. Together, they presented how the brewery is using the Elite 290 to hit their climate goals—without sacrificing performance.

“We’re really happy to work with a partner like G&D Chillers…to help us significantly reduce the amount of HFCs…excited to implement G&D’s new Elite 290 chilling technology.”

This isn’t just a cool idea—it’s happening right now, in real facilities, with real results.

 Why It Matters to You

Here’s why propane chillers are worth a look:

  • No HFC phaseout headaches – propane is already compliant
  • Lower energy costs – R290 is efficient and powerful
  • Safety and support – we’ve been through the permitting process and provide training and guidance every step of the way

 Check-out our Full Presentation

Want to hear it straight from Scott? Check out the full case study presentation from the ATMO Summit here:

 Watch it now →

Let’s Talk About Your Next Chiller

If you’re ready to cut emissions, save on energy, and get ahead of the curve, the Elite 290 is ready to deliver. Whether you’re upgrading or starting from scratch, we’re here to help you make the switch to natural refrigerants, stress-free.


May 22, 2025

Get Your Cooling System Ready for the Season Ahead

Get Your Cooling System Ready for the Season Ahead

As spring arrives and vineyard life begins to bloom again, it’s the perfect time to wake your chiller from winter hibernation. A smooth startup now means reliable cooling when you need it most — whether you’re cold-soaking rosé lots or prepping for bottling.

Below is a helpful step-by-step guide to safely and efficiently hook up and prepare your chiller for winery use this season:

Spring Chiller Startup Checklist

1. Clean the Condenser Coils

  • Spring debris like cottonwood, pollen, and leaves can restrict airflow.
  • Use a soft brush or coil-safe cleaner to remove buildup. For heavy grime, a gentle rinse with water may help — just avoid damaging the fins.
  • Straighten bent fins with a fin comb if needed.

2. Remove Winter Protection

  • Take off tarps, overhangs, or insulation used for winter protection.
  • Ensure there’s no trapped moisture, which can lead to rust or mold.

3. Inspect Power & Electrical Connections

  • Confirm that electrical wiring is intact and connections are tight.
  • Check breaker panels, disconnects, and look for any signs of wear or corrosion.
  • Only turn on power after all visual inspections are complete.

4. Check Fluid Levels & Glycol Concentration

  • Test glycol levels for proper freeze protection.
  • Top off fluid if needed and inspect for leaks or degradation in the reservoir or lines.
  • Clean out any sediment or gunk in the tank before cycling fluid.

5. Reconnect Hoses & Inspect Fittings

  • Reattach any process or return lines.
  • Check for dry rot, cracks, or loose hose clamps. Replace or tighten as needed.
  • Confirm all fittings are sealed and properly aligned.

6. Run the Chiller in Manual/Test Mode (if applicable)

  • Power on in manual mode to monitor startup behavior.
  • Listen for any unusual sounds, check for error codes, and monitor pressure levels.
  • Run for 10–15 minutes to ensure system stability.

7. Verify Pump Operation & Flow Direction

  • Confirm coolant is flowing freely through your tanks, heat exchangers, or jackets.
  • Bleed air from the lines if your system is prone to airlocks.
  • Look for smooth, consistent flow — surging could indicate a clog or air pocket.

8. Review Set Points & Controls

  • Recalibrate temperature settings to match your current winemaking needs.
  • Double-check programmable schedules, alarms, and remote monitoring setups if used.

9. Perform a Final Walk-Around Inspection

  • Look for signs of leaks, oil spots, or corrosion.
  • Ensure all safety covers and panels are secure.
  • Verify emergency shutoff switches are labeled and accessible.

Questions about your system or planning an expansion?

Give us a call or shoot us an email — we’re happy to help you optimize your chiller setup and keep your winery running cool all year long.

If you have any technical questions about your chiller or have any future expansion plans, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or Contact us.


April 14, 2025

G&D Chillers Unveils New Sustainable Refrigeration Technology and Industry Innovations

G&D Chillers Unveils New Sustainable Refrigeration Technology and Industry Innovations

G&D Chillers, known for producing the most reliable premium chillers used in commercial brewing, wine, cannabis, food processing, biogas and other manufacturing industries for more than 30 years, is proud to announce a series of groundbreaking innovations set to redefine the refrigeration landscape in 2025. From sustainable cooling technology to expanded industry partnerships and advanced training programs, G&D Chillers continues to drive the future of industrial chilling solutions.

Revolutionizing Sustainability: Elite 290 Microseries & New Belgium Installation

G&D Chillers proudly introduces its latest environmentally friendly innovation in alternative refrigerant-based chilling: the Elite 290 Microseries is designed to deliver unparalleled efficiency while significantly reducing carbon footprints. These advancements mark a major step forward in sustainable cooling solutions, reinforcing G&D Chillers’ commitment to our planet through sustainable, Made-in-the-USA engineering and manufacturing.

The highly anticipated Elite 290 Microseries has officially launched, bringing an ultra-efficient, small-scale chiller solution to the market. To learn more, read our Microseries Press Release and check out our latest installation at New Belgium Brewing, featuring G&D’s cutting-edge custom Elite 290 chiller unit. View our New Belgium Partnership Ad, as featured in the Spring edition of New Brewer magazine.

G&D’s entire range of glycol and alternative refrigerant-based chillers will be on display at the Craft Brewers Conference in Nashville April 28 – May 1 in booth #421.

Expanding Industry Knowledge: Quarterly Training Program

G&D Chillers continues its commitment to customer education with its Quarterly Training Program. Covering essential topics such as best maintenance practices, troubleshooting, and system optimization, this initiative equips clients with the knowledge needed to enhance their chiller operations. Any current G&D customers interested in taking advantage of this value-add service can contact sarah@gdchillers.com for more information.

G&D Customer and pFriem Beer’s Plant Manager Simon Traeger says about the new training program: “pFriem had a fantastic experience at the refrigeration class at G&D Chillers. The instructors were knowledgeable and approachable, providing hands-on training that helped me gain a deeper understanding of chillers and the systems that make them work. The class was well-organized, and I walked away with valuable skills that I can apply immediately in my work.”

Chillers on the Move: Delivering Excellence for Biogas Industry

G&D Chillers remains a trusted partner for large-scale cooling solutions. This spring, we are proud to highlight the shipment of large chillers to Vision RNG, supporting Biogas Engineering projects. In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, renewable energy sources are taking center stage, and biogas is at the forefront of the future of sustainability. As a versatile and sustainable energy source, biogas offers a remarkable solution to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner environment. G&D Chillers is proud to be part of this transformation by manufacturing hard-working glycol and propane-based chillers that support the biogas industry.

G&D Chillers understands the critical role that temperature control plays in the biogas production process. The company’s best-in-class chillers are designed to meet the unique demands of biogas plants, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

“Temperature control is crucial in the upgrading process,” says Scott Timms, Chief Operating Officer at G&D Chillers. “Our chillers are engineered to maintain the precise temperatures needed for maximum biogas production, even in the harsh environments these facilities are often located in. Our state-of-the-art chillers will operate reliably when the plant needs them most.”

G&D Chillers will showcase its large-scale cooling solutions at the upcoming BioGas America tradeshow in booth #929 in Denver, Colo. April 27-May 1.

Innovating with Alternative Refrigerants

As part of their ongoing commitment to sustainability, G&D Chillers is leveraging A2L refrigerants to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Here is a recent video showcasing this exciting alternative refrigerant technology.

For more information on G&D Chillers’ latest innovations, upcoming events, and industry advancements, visit www.gdchillers.com or contact our team directly.


About G&D Chillers

Since 1993, G&D Chillers have been manufacturing glycol chillers specifically for the commercial brewing, wine, dairy, cannabis, food processing and manufacturing industries. We are proud to provide chillers for our industry leading customers such as Ninkasi, Willamette Valley Vineyards, Sara Lee, Angry Orchard, Stumptown Coffee, Jim Beam, Samuel Adams, Boeing, Diageo and Brew Dr. Kombucha.  With well over 6,000 clients across the U.S. and beyond, we’ve built high-quality chilling units for specialty installations throughout the United States, Canada, the Bahamas, India, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Turkey, and the West Indies. No matter what your cooling needs are, whether you require a permanent installation, a portable chiller or a heater, we engineer the finest quality chilling systems in the USA. For more information, visit www.gdchillers.com.

March 7, 2025

G&D Chillers Furthers Commitment to Cleaner Refrigeration Technology with New Propane Product Application

G&D Expands its ‘Elite 290’ Propane Chillers with NEW Microseries

March 7, 2025 – Junction City, Ore. –  G&D Chillers, known for producing the most reliable premium chillers used in commercial brewing, wine, cannabis, food processing, biogas and other manufacturing industries for more than 30 years, is pleased to announce its latest innovation as part of its trailblazing Elite 290 line of propane chillers introduced earlier this year. 

The Elite 290 Microseries features a compact design that makes it easier to put the chiller in tight spaces. The new design leverages efficient variable speed fans that allow for stable operation in all weather conditions (especially cold weather) and increases fan efficiency. The fans on the Microseries chillers vent vertically as opposed to horizontally, making them ideal for compact conditions.  

The Elite 290 Microseries also eliminates the need for mechanical switches, reducing “wear and tear” and resulting in a quieter chiller with a wider fluid temperature range that can more accurately control temperature. The compressors for these smaller chillers are able to stay consistent no matter what the conditions, resulting in a more stable cooling system. 

Ideal customers for this type of chiller include those in the beer, wine, spirits, dairy and industrial industries, which G&D Chillers has been serving for over 30 years. 

“Everyone who works at G&D Chillers shares a common goal – and that is to be on the forefront of innovation so we can solve problems for our customers,” said Justin Thomas, president of G&D Chillers. “It’s how we’ve built our business and how we continue to operate on a daily basis. Our customer’s needs are always informing the types of chillers we build and we’re really excited to offer our most versatile chiller yet featuring future-proof R290 refrigerant.” 

As the leading chilling manufacturer to bring innovative propane technology to the United States, G&D Chillers sets a new standard for sustainability, efficiency and tomorrow-proof chilling solutions. The Elite 290 Microseries is designed to propel businesses toward a better future, with chillers that boast near-zero Global Warming Potential (GWP) and significantly lower energy costs.

Over the past 30 years, the commercial refrigeration industry has undergone a transformative evolution aimed at reducing GWP. The emphasis on energy efficiency and environmentally friendly refrigerants has led to an increased demand for alternative chilling solutions. Government regulations combating climate change have further accelerated the industry's pivot towards sustainable refrigeration methods.

G&D Chillers Elite 290 Micro-Series chillers utilize propane as a natural refrigerant. Propane (R290) lowers the users GWP to near Zero. R290 is a highly efficient refrigerant as well, benefiting a wide array of industries from breweries to industrial biogas. G&D Chillers takes pride in being the first in the commercial chilling industry to reintroduce propane as a natural refrigerant in America- offering a safer, environmentally sound and more efficient chilling solution. 

Propane, widely embraced in the U.K. and Europe, is now at the forefront of a movement towards sustainable refrigeration in North America, led by G&D Chillers. The Elite 290 Microseries is designed to be future-proof, and exempt from HFC phase-out programs, ensuring longevity and sustainability. 

G&D Chillers' Elite 290 Microseries is poised to redefine the chilling landscape offering businesses a pathway to sustainability, efficiency and tomorrow-proof refrigeration technology. 

About G&D Chillers 

Since 1993, G&D Chillers have been manufacturing glycol chillers specifically for the commercial brewing, wine, dairy, cannabis, food processing and manufacturing industries. We are proud to provide chillers for our industry leading customers such as Ninkasi, Willamette Valley Vineyards, Sara Lee, Angry Orchard, Stumptown Coffee, Jim Beam, Samuel Adams, Boeing, Diageo and Brew Dr. Kombucha.  With well over 6,000 clients across the U.S. and beyond, we’ve built high-quality chilling units for specialty installations throughout the United States, Canada, the Bahamas, India, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Turkey, and the West Indies. No matter what your cooling needs are, whether you require a permanent installation, a portable chiller or a heater, we engineer the finest quality chilling systems in the USA. For more information, visit www.gdchillers.com

January 13, 2025

Fire & Ice: Portable Chilling Solutions by G&D Chillers

With over 50 years of collective experience in the refrigeration industry, G&D’s Chiller expertise goes far beyond the design and implementation of cutting-edge glycol chilling systems. Many of the leading wineries, here in the USA and around the world, turn to us for innovative Glycol Chillers. G&D has paved the way when it comes to portable glycol chilling. Our sturdy and practical design allows the user to utilize the same robust chiller on a portable platform. Come to our booth 1623 to see our portable Fire & Ice we brought to the show.

G&D Chillers, Inc.
Unified Symposium Booth: 1623

G&D CHILLERS UNDERSTANDS THE NEEDS OF THE WINE INDUSTRY AND WINERY CHILLING IS ONE OF OUR MAIN PRODUCT APPLICATIONS.

We are a dedicated provider of Standard Winery Chillers, as well as Custom Chilling Units, for Wineries throughout the world. With G&D Engineered Winery Chillers installed in over 2,900 Wineries, we have the experience and the know-how to manufacture units to meet, and even exceed, the needs of the wine industry. Over the years, we have helped numerous startup Wineries build their businesses from the ground up. We have found that discussing a few simple ideas about your long-term plans can save you time and allow your winery to expand without requiring retrofitting. Let us assist you in matching a Winery Chilling unit to your present needs and to your future demands as your customer base grows.

And don’t forget to check out the benefits of our Glycol Heaters and our Process Load Controllers for your Winery.

September 18, 2024

Why R290 Is Tomorrow-Proof

R290 vs C02

  • R290 is tomorrow proof because it has an extremely low global warming potential
  • Zero ozone depletion potential
  • Contains zero PFAS chemicals
  • 70% more efficient than CO2
  • A2Ls are a great interim solution, but they won’t be around forever.

CO2 has major problems that make it a poor choice for the future, it is highly inefficient, equipment, maintenance, and operational costs are high, and reliability is poor.

A quick note about A2Ls which are a good interim solution, but they won’t be around forever.

  • Europe is already starting to phase them out because of the PFAS (forever) chemicals they contain.
  • New York has already set a timeline to eliminate all the existing A2L refrigerants (even in existing systems) that exist today because of their global warming potential. California and the rest of the nation won’t be far behind.
  • A2Ls all have multiple components, and glide (various component gasses boil at differing pressures and temperatures) – this adds to the cost of repairs when leaks occur, as most of the time, the entire refrigerant charge must be replaced since different parts of the refrigerant leak at different rates.
  • A2Ls are close to R290 in efficiency, and far more efficient than CO2

R290


Co2


COMPARISON


BREWERY COP

8.5

5.03

R290 is 70% more efficient than CO2 in a brewery.

CRITICAL TEMPERATURE

206Ëš F

88Ëš F

Virtually all of the US sees summertime temperatures above the critical temperature of CO2, meaning that sub-critical CO2 systefms stop working altogether when it’s hot outside.

GWP

GWP = 3.3

(New studies put it at less than 1)

GWP-20 = 0.072

GWP-100 = 0.02

GWP = 1

GWP-20 = 1

GWP-100 = 1

Both have negligible global warming potential. However, the long term GWP for R290 is essentially zero, where CO2 is 1. If the current trends of higher efficiency requirements and the more restrictive GWP requirements continue, CO2 will be on the chopping block.

FIRST COST

Comparable to today’s technology.

Approximately 2-4x today’s technology.

Higher pressures and new components required for the trans-critical refrigeration cycle makes every part of the CO2 system more expensive.

OPERATING COST

Slightly more energy efficient than today’s best refrigerants.

28-70% higher energy consumption than todays common refrigerants.

R290 chillers cut energy costs by about 70% when compared to CO2 trans-critical chillers.

MAINTENANCE COST

Similar to today’s chillers.

More expensive and harder to find qualified technicians.

R290 chillers are generally less costly to maintain because the basic components and technology is familiar to all refrigeration technicians. Currently, it is very difficult to find a technician qualified to work on, or even familiar with the trans-critical CO2 refrigeration cycle.

REPAIR PARTS COST

Similar to today’s chillers.

2-4x higher or more.

R290 chiller repair parts are less costly because they’re basically the same parts we’ve used in refrigeration for the last 100 years.

CO2 chiller parts require higher pressure ratings (multiple thousands of psi) and there are entirely new parts invented recently for CO2 systems, making parts tremendously more expensive. Also, because of the higher pressure and heat, the moving parts don’t last as long.

TRAINING

Requires safe handling training. However, the refrigeration cycle and components are all familiar.

Requires safe handling training. Requires extensive training to understand and perform diagnostics on an entirely unique refrigeration cycle.

Safety training is required for both options. However, CO2 systems work on a completely different (trans-critical) cycle requiring high level training to understand.


To learn more about our new Elite 290 line of chillers email us directly at elite290@gdchillers.com