Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

Using VRF Systems to Solve HVAC Challenges

  • By James DeBerry
  • 09/01/18

Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) is a leading edge, globally proven HVAC technology that can help solve many HVAC challenges faced by educational facilities:

Increasing Energy Efficiency
VRF systems with inverter-driven compressors can reduce energy bills up to 25 percent.

Lower Lifecycle Costs
VRF’s installation and operational costs are often lower than those of traditional systems. Standard controls and simpler installation save on materials and labor.

Delivering Fresh Air
With advanced filters, zoning capabilities, and integration with ventilation systems, VRF can help meet indoor air mandates.

Limiting Operational Noise
VRF eliminates disruption indoors and out. Indoor units operate as quietly as 27 decibels and outdoor units are quieter than traditional systems.

Varying Loads Needs
Full-range variable capacity delivers only the amount of conditioning required to match a zone’s cooling or heating demand. Using integrated controls and sensors that measure conditions within each zone, the compressor adjusts speeds to maintain the desired zone temperature.

Solving Comfort Issues
VRF’s zoning offers personalized comfort control, including the ability to simultaneously cool and heat from one heat recovery system.

Controlling Multiple 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.

Minimizing Maintenance
Limited maintenance is necessary and doesn’t require a specialized service contractor.

This article originally appeared in the College Planning & Management September 2018 issue of Spaces4Learning.

About the Author

James DeBerry is commercial marketing manager for Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating (MitsubishiPro.com). He can be reached at [email protected] or 888-979-9686.

Featured

  • Sam Houston State University Completes Athletic Stadium Renovations

    Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, recently announced the reopening of Elliott T. Bowers Stadium after an extensive renovation project, according to a news release. The university partnered with Stantec and DLR Group for the project’s design.

  • Year-Round Schools Require Year-Round Indoor Air Quality Planning

    While many schools are out for the summer, year-round schools follow a more “balanced” schedule with shorter, more frequent breaks spaced throughout the school year. Even though this offers educational benefits, these facilities have less downtime for building maintenance. This can become an issue when facilities managers overlook the importance of routine HVAC maintenance and air duct cleaning services.

  • University of Pittsburgh to Build New Residence Hall

    The Board of Trustees from the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Penn., recently approved the construction of a new residence hall for first-year students, according to university news.

  • Philadelphia Middle School Facility Earns LEED Gold Certification

    The Alternative Middle Years (AMY) at James Martin Middle School in Philadelphia, Penn., recently received a LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, according to a news release. The School District of Pennsylvania partnered with KSS Architects on the project.