Variable refrigerant flow

Not to be confused with chiller.
"VRV" redirects here. For the media streaming service, see VRV (streaming service). For the station code VRV, see Viravada railway station.

Variable refrigerant flow (VRF), also known as variable refrigerant volume (VRV), is an HVAC technology invented by Daikin Industries, Ltd. in 1982.[1] Similar to ductless mini-split systems, VRFs use refrigerant as the primary cooling and heating medium, and are usually less complex than conventional chiller-based systems. This refrigerant is conditioned by one or more condensing units (which may be outdoors or indoors, water or air cooled), and is circulated within the building to multiple indoor units.[2] VRF systems, unlike conventional chiller-based systems, allow for varying degrees of cooling in more specific areas (because there are no large air handlers, only smaller indoor units), may supply hot water in a heat recovery configuration without affecting efficiency,[3] and switch to heating mode (heat pump) during winter without additional equipment, all of which may allow for reduced energy consumption. Also, air handlers and large ducts are not used which can reduce the height above a dropped ceiling as well as structural impact as VRF uses smaller penetrations for refrigerant pipes instead of ducts.[4]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference thornton201212 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ "VRF – "Reason to choose VRF HVAC Technology" – 22-7 Website". Retrieved 2019-09-05.
  3. ^ "Introduction of Heat Recovery Chiller Control and Water System Design" (PDF). Retrieved 2024-01-13.
  4. ^ Felt, Justin (2017-12-21). "The Emergence of VRF as a Viable HVAC Option". Buildings. Endeavor Business Media. Archived from the original on 2023-02-10.