Air-cooled chillers offer several benefits in small chilled-water systems, including lower first costs, reduced maintenance requirements, and simplified installation. Air-cooled chillers eliminate the need for a condenser water system, which can save on piping, pumps, and cooling tower costs. They also tend to be more compact and lighter than water-cooled chillers, making them ideal for smaller applications. However, air-cooled chillers may be less efficient than water-cooled units, particularly in warmer climates.