Skip to main content

NOTICE: Due to a lapse in annual appropriations, most of this website is not being updated. Learn more.

Form submissions will still be accepted but will not receive responses at this time. Sections of this site for programs using non-appropriated funds (such as NVLAP) or those that are excepted from the shutdown (such as CHIPS and NVD) will continue to be updated.

U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

HVAC&R Equipment Environmental Chambers

Large "Truck" Chamber

The large "truck" chamber provides controlled air conditions from -7 °C (20 °F) to 65 °C (150 °F).

Air-Conditioner and Heat Pump Test Chambers

The indoor chamber can provide controlled air conditions for all ARI heating and cooling tests for split-systems, window units, and other unitary equipment throughout the range of 10 °C (50 °F) to 60 °C (140 °F) dry-bulb temperature with relative humidity controlled within ±2 %.

Small Appliance and Refrigerator Chamber

This chamber is used to test small heating and cooling equipment such as radiators, heat exchangers, water coolers, refrigerators, and control devices.

Specifications/Capabilities

Large "Truck" Chamber The conditioning equipment can remove up to 35 kW (120 000 Btu/h) of heat at a dry-bulb temperature of 35°C (95°F) and 50 % relative humidity. Full range dry-bulb temperature control of ± 1°C (2°F) with relative humidity control better than ± 2 % is possible. At ARI heating and cooling conditions, control of dry-bulb and dewpoint temperatures are better than 0.1 °C (0.2 °F).   Air-Conditioner and Heat Pump Test Chambers The outdoor chamber has a temperature range capability from -18°C (0 °F) to 60 °C (140 °F) with relative humidity controlled within ± 2%. At ARI heating and cooling conditions, control of dry-bulb and dewpoint temperatures are better than 0.1°C (0.2°F). Units with cooling capacities up to 35 kW (120 000 Btu/h) may be tested.   Small Appliance and Refrigerator Chamber Dry-bulb temperature may be controlled from -18°C (0°F) to 65°C (150°F) with relative humidity controlled within ± 2% of setpoint. At ARI heating and cooling conditions, control of dry-bulb and dewpoint temperatures are better than 0.1°C (0.2°F). Maximum heat removal from this chamber is 11.7 kW (40 000 Btu/h).

Created February 9, 2010, Updated June 24, 2024
Was this page helpful?