Understanding Variable Refrigerant Flow aka VRF Systems

When you’re remodeling, upgrading, or building a new home or commercial building in Lorton, VA, you’ll need a heating and cooling system that’s effective and efficient. Variable refrigerant flow, or VRF systems, offer energy-efficient heating and cooling that works with high-tech home automation systems. Here’s what you should know about how these systems work and their benefits.

Unique Setup

VRF systems have a unique setup. According to Bryant, single outdoor unit supports up to 64 indoor units. Each zone has its own thermostat. This is far more than the standard mini-split systems, which support four indoor units. The VRF setup uses a chemical refrigerant like heat pumps and air conditioners, but it uses a computer to direct the refrigerant to the indoor units that need heating or cooling functions.

How Variable Refrigerant Flow Works

The algorithms built into VRF systems allow the equipment to direct the right amount of refrigerant to the right indoor unit. This means that a zone within a building can be heated or cooled as much as needed in order to reach the temperature setting on the thermostat. One zone may demand a lot of cooling, and the zone next to it might require heating. The ability to heat some zones and cool some zones at the same time is a distinct feature of these systems.

Conserve Energy and Save Money

Two of the biggest benefits of VRF systems are their conservation of energy and lower heating and cooling costs. Installing VRF systems could lower heating and cooling costs by 34 percent, explains the U.S. General Services Administration. Instead of heating or cooling an entire building, they only heat or cool where it’s necessary. Business owners might need to cool a server room and storage area while heating offices. VRF systems are excellent for multi-unit residential properties and offices.

To learn more about VRF systems, review Commonwealth Cooling & Heating, LLC’s heating and cooling installation services, or contact us for additional details.