Low ambient temperatures have a significant effect on which type of cooling unit?

Low ambient temperatures have a significant effect on air-cooled units. Air-cooled systems rely on the temperature of the air surrounding them to dissipate heat. When ambient temperatures drop, the ability of these units to reject heat is compromised. This is primarily because the temperature difference between the refrigerant and the surrounding air decreases, diminishing the efficiency of the heat exchange process.

Consequently, if the ambient temperature is too low, it can lead to inadequate cooling or even compressor issues due to the risk of the system operating in a saturated state. This can result in reduced efficiency, longer run times, and potential damage to the compressor over time.

Water-cooled units, on the other hand, rely on a separate body of water for heat rejection, which is less influenced by outdoor air temperatures, thus making them better suited for operation in low ambient conditions. Ice cream units and dairy coolers are more specific applications and also can have different operational dynamics not directly tied to ambient air temperatures in the same way as air-cooled units.