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 [email protected] or 888/979-9686.

Featured

  • Rethinking K-12 Schools as a Continuous Learning Experience

    Most students move through three or more separate facilities during their K-12 journey, yet the built environments they encounter at each stage have traditionally been designed in isolation, with little continuity in spatial language, learning philosophy, or physical resources. Each new school is a reset with different layouts, learning models, expectations, and ways of moving through a building. The next generation of school design is making the case that the first day of kindergarten and the last day of high school can and should feel connected through common support systems and infrastructure in the physical environment.

  • Spaces4Learning Announces 2026 Product Award Winners

    Spaces4Learning has just announced the winners of the 2026 Product Awards! The award program spotlights outstanding product development achievements of manufacturers and suppliers whose products or services are considered to be particularly noteworthy in their ability to enhance K–12 and higher-education learning environments.

  • Wold Completes Geothermal Projects at Two Minnesota Schools

    Wold Architects & Engineers recently announced that it has completed two geothermal expansion projects for Mounds View Public Schools in Shoreview, Minn., according to a news release. The work at Highview Middle School and Irondale High School serves the district’s long-term goal of reducing energy costs and dependency on non-renewable fuel sources, as well as improving building performance.

  • Cal Poly Humboldt Starts Construction on Healthcare Education Hub

    California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt in Arcata, Calif., recently announced that work has begun on a renovation project that will turn the Stewart Building into a new Healthcare Education Hub, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Sundt Construction Inc. for construction services.