VRF Has Many Advantages

Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) is a leading-edge, globally proven HVAC technology that can help solve many HVAC challenges. Following are a few of its merits.

  • Increased Energy Efficiency — VRF systems with inverter-driven compressors can reduce energy bills up to 25 percent.
  • Reduced Costs — While initial equipment cost can be higher, VRF’s installation and operational costs are often lower. Standard controls and simpler installation save on materials and labor.
  • Delivery of Fresh Air — With advanced filters, zoning capabilities and integration with ventilation systems, VRF can help meet indoor air mandates.
  • Limited Operational Noise — VRF eliminates disruption indoors and out. Indoor units operate as quietly as 19 decibels and outdoor units are quieter than traditional systems.
  • Variable Loads Needs — VRF does an impressive job meeting spaces’ and occupants’ needs. Full-range variable capacity delivers only the amount of conditioning required. Using integrated controls and sensors, the compressor adjusts speeds to maintain the desired zone temperature.
  • Solves Comfort Issues — VRF’s zoning offers incredibly personalized comfort control, including the ability to simultaneously cool and heat from one heat recovery system.
  • Controls Multiples Spaces — VRF can integrate with third-party software. Beyond that, VRF offers a wide variety of controls options, from individual zone controllers to centralized controllers that monitor, schedule and control multiple indoor units through a web browser.
  • Minimizes Maintenance — Little maintenance is required and doesn’t require a specialized service contractor. VRF components are easily accessible.

This article originally appeared in the September 2017 issue of Spaces4Learning.

About the Author

Kevin Miskewicz is the director of Commercial Marketing with Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating. He can be reached at kmiskewicz@hvac.mea.com or 888/979-9686.

Featured

  • bar graph with the bars made out of abstract cinder blocks and other construction materials

    Spaces4Learning 2025 Trends in K–12: Materials & Construction

    With 2025 well underway, it’s time to take a look at some broader trends submitted by you, our Spaces4Learning readership. We asked for your thoughts on topics like classroom design, health & safety, materials & construction, and technology in both K–12 and higher-education environments. Below is a roundup of 2025 trends in K–12 materials and construction from the experts in the trenches.

  • Quadient Achieves 25,000 Locker Installations Worldwide

    Global automation platform Quadient recently announced that it has acquired Package Concierge, a U.S.-based parcel management solutions provider, according to a news release. The acquisition pushes Quadient over the 25,000-unit milestone of global installations.

  • East Carolina University Selects Architect for $60M Residence Hall Renovations

    East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., recently announced that it has selected the KWK/Jenkins Peer Architects (JPA) team, collaborating with INTREPID Architecture, to design renovations for two of its residence halls, according to a news release.

  • VLK Architects Receives Caudill Award for Texas Learning Center

    VLK Architects recently received the Caudill Award for its work on the Dr. Jim F. Chadwell Administration Building and Discovery Lab Learning Center for Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD in Fort Worth, Texas, according to a news release. The award is the highest honor from the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) / Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Exhibit of School Architecture yearly competition.