Last Updated on March 8, 2020
A variable refrigerant flow (also known as VRF) is type of air-condition system configuration that houses a single outdoor condensing unit which links up to numerous indoor units. The initial term ‘variable refrigerant flow’ is in reference the systems ability to control the total amount of refrigerant that flows through to the multiple evaporators (the indoor units), enabling the use of multiple evaporators of different configurations and capacities which are connected to just a single condensing unit. The primary function and purpose of all air-conditioning units and systems is to provide cooling and thermal comfort for occupants of a building. This system arrangement allows the VRF conditioning system to provide an individualized control of comfort in a specific location or atmosphere while simultaneously heating or cooling different locations within a single property. Nevertheless, it’s important to point out that VRF systems shouldn’t be mistaken or confused with centralized VAV (variable air volume) units and systems, which work primarily by varying airflow that needs to conditioned based on the variation of a specific room load.
Currently, VRF systems have been widely installed in large buildings in and around the globe, especially countries such as Japan and also locations within Europe. The VRF air conditioning system is slowly becoming popular and starting to be introduced into commercial buildings in the U.S.
The VRF system was originally developed and fashioned by Daikin Industries in Japan, who named and patented the term variable refrigerant volume system so that other manufacturers wouldn’t use the term VRF.
VRF Benefits for budgets and buildings:
Efficiency
Properties and buildings of any size or shape very rarely require a total of 100% capacity from their HVAC systems. Nevertheless, while adjusting to cooling and heating requirements for a specific location or room within a property VRF system technology allows the unique system to run at lower speeds, which help in saving you money and also helps the environment by using less energy.
Simultaneously Heat and Cool with VRF Systems
Typically VRF systems come with 3 pipe feature that cools and heats simultaneously, allows the system to accurately and quickly cater to the continuously changing temperature of buildings throughout the day. Individuals who occupy one area of the building or a separate room may prefer their room temperature slightly cooler or warmer than other parts of the building. With a VRF system the temperature of a single room can be individually set so that the system will automatically provide and deliver heated or cooled air to each room to meet the set temperature requirement.
VRF Systems Are an Ideal Choice to Save Space
Because VRF systems are able to deliver comfortable temperatures with refrigerant through small pipes, it means that the system only requires approximately half of the ceiling/roofing space when compared to conventional HVAC unit’s and system ductwork. This allows for far greater architectural flexibility and freedom. VRF systems are a great solution when it comes to efficiently controlling the climate in almost any space from a traditional small yet single office to a complete multi story high-rise building.
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Article is courtesy by Best-Air
