Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) HVAC systems aren’t a new technology, but they are still relatively new to the United States market. In just a short period, VRF technology has been quickly recognized for its advanced energy efficiency and other benefits. Why choose VRF HVAC technology for your commercial properties? Take a look:
What Is Variable Refrigerant Flow?
The term variable refrigerant flow (VRF) simply indicates the system’s ability to control and vary the flow of refrigerant through its numerous evaporator coils for zoned comfort control. Direct expansion in the refrigeration cycle allows VRF HVAC systems to move room heat directly to the dedicated evaporator coils in each space. Environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant carries heating, cooling, and heat recovery to its many zones in a number of configurations. They may be air cooled or water cooled.
It’s a non-traditional type of HVAC system – not like the conventional central heating and air systems we often imagine. Think of it like a ductless heating and cooling system, but for a much larger scale and with a much higher capacity. They are a multi-split system that has multiple indoor units linked with a central outdoor unit.
VRF HVAC systems incorporate today’s most advanced, energy efficient technology including:
- Variable speed compressors
- Capacity-modulated inverter duty compressors
- Outdoor fans that operate using variable frequency drive motors
- Indoor units that work using electronically commutated motors (ECM)
With VRF technology, one system facilitates the operation of many indoor zones. They may be either a heat pump system that provides heating or cooling, or a heat recovery system that provides both heating and cooling at the same time.
Where Is VRF HVAC Best Utilized?
Its flexibility, zoning capabilities, and superior efficiency show business owners why choose VRF HVAC in a number of applications, including:
- Hotels, where individual comfort control is demanded
- Schools where each zone has differing HVAC requirements
- Mixed-use facilities that are challenging to heat and cool with standard equipment
- Medical facilities that require precision temperature and air quality control
- Restaurants with defined heating and cooling operation modes
- Retail spaces with varying needs between tenants
- High-end homes that demand superior zoning
Benefits of VRF
Why choose VRF HVAC tech? Many commercial building owners have already made the switch due to the advantages presented by its use:
- Improved energy efficiency
- Average energy savings between 20 and 30 percent
- Good performance at part-load capacity thanks to variable speed compressors
- Excellent zone control
- Heat recovery allows for simultaneous heating and cooling
- Less duct work and associated energy losses
- Extremely quiet operation
- Installation flexibility with a small footprint
- Lighter than ductless equipment for easy installation
- Experiences fewer breakdowns which results in less facility downtime
- Advanced controls
Why Choose VRF HVAC? Explore the Reasons with Estes
Estes Commercial is proud to bring our customers exciting new HVAC technology that betters their businesses and presents wide-reaching benefits. When it’s time to upgrade or replace your existing commercial heating and cooling equipment, consider why choose VRF HVAC and the available new technology that offers enhanced comfort and energy savings for your facility.
Why choose VRF HVAC for your commercial property? Request a consultation with Estes Commercial today – we are happy to show you the specific benefits this technology has to offer.
