VRV Vs. VRF HVAC Systems: What’s The Difference, and Why You Must Invest In This Technology?

10/29/2021

Have you ever thought of how your HVAC works for you? I mean, ofcourse, you set a temperature based on your cooling/heating needs, and the system cools or heats your home to that temperature. Then, as the house starts to warm up or cool down again, it cycles back on.

Seems pretty simple, isn’t it?

The A-Z operation of an HVAC system is straightforward at first glance, but what goes on in the back can be just as important. Over time, we’ve seen some advancement in technology that has made all kinds of differences in how we use these systems today – sometimes even making them more efficient.

If you have been looking to update your current HVAC system and researching for new options lately, then it’s no doubt that systems using VRV or VRF technology are appealing. The benefits associated with this technology include improved comfort at a lower operating cost.

With the introduction of VRV/VRF technology into our buildings, many people are now confused about these terms and what they mean for their HVAC system. 

Keep reading to learn more about this innovative cooling setup option that may be right up your alley.

What Do VRF And VRV Stand For?

Did you know that VRV and VRF mean the same thing? That’s right. VRV is short for “Variable Refrigerant Volume,” and VRF is “Variable Refrigerant Flow.” And they both refer to how an HVAC system uses refrigerant.

In 1980, VRV was originally designed and copyrighted by Daikin, the industry leader at that time. And when later other companies adopted the same technology, they named it VRF to describe their system. Since then, VRF has been the preferred terminology to describe the type of HVAC system.

Now that you know what VRV and VRF mean, it’s time to figure out how they are different from your current HVAC system and why you would care to invest in VRV/ VRF technologies even if your current system is working just fine!

We are here to tell you that there is a better way, and your comfort deserves more than “just fine.”

Why Invest In VRF/ VRV Technology?

If you want an advanced, energy-efficient, reliable, and long-lasting air conditioning system, then the VRF unit might be right for your home or office. A VRF system has four defining features.

  • In VRF systems, refrigerant is directly used to cool the air. However, in a traditional HVAC system, water is used to cool the air – refrigerant is used to chill the water, then circulated through the system.
  • VRFs are an energy-efficient way to cool the air conditioning system. They use inverter compressors, which have very low power consumption and allow the unit to pull only enough energy to partially cool the system.
  • VRF systems come with multiple air handlers to connect together as per your cooling/ heating needs within the same refrigerant loop.
  • Lastly, the ability to expand modularly with VRF systems makes them an attractive option for growing projects.

How Does VRF Work?

A VRF air conditioning unit is a hyper-efficient, high-tech device that considers indoor and outdoor temperatures when running to cool your home. Each unit from various manufacturers has its own programmed algorithms, but all work in much the same manner at its core.

A VRF unit is an innovative type of air conditioning system. When you set a particular indoor temperature, it considers outside temperature and calculates how much energy is needed for an indoor climate. And run the compressor with only enough energy to meet the requirements of the indoor desired temperature. This feature makes these units more efficient than traditional systems.

Additionally, if you turn on a secondary VRF unit, the system will perform another calculation considering the desired temperature, current ambient outdoor temperature, the contribution from a secondary unit, and the indoor temperature so that your home stays comfortable while saving money.

VRF units are easy to put together and can expand your project without any hassle. Because of its modular setup, this system is perfect for anyone who needs more space or functionality with their cooling. Contact us today so an expert can get started helping you out with incorporating it into the home.

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