Ammi Amarnath, Electric Power Research Institute
Morton Blatt, Energy Utilization Consultant
ABSTRACT
This paper reviews the attributes of an emerging space conditioning technology; variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. Material presented in this paper was synthesized from the open literature, private interviews with industry experts and data (sometimes proprietary data) obtained from manufacturers. VRF systems are enhanced versions of ductless multi-split systems, permitting more indoor units to be connected to each outdoor unit and providing additional features such as simultaneous heating and cooling and heat recovery. VRF technology uses smart integrated controls, variable speed drives, refrigerant piping, and heat recovery to provide products with attributes that include high energy efficiency, flexible operation, ease of installation, low noise, zone control, and comfort using all-electric technology. VRF systems are very popular in Asia and Europe and, with an increasing support available from major U.S. and Asian manufacturers are worth considering for multi-zone commercial building applications in the U.S.
This paper provides an overview of variable refrigerant flow system technology, including the market situation, advantages and disadvantages for the customer, possible impact on the electric utility, applications recommendations, and technology attributes. Also addressed are what is holding back the technology, including lack of verified third party field data; codes and standards issues; technology improvements needed; and market actions needed to increase penetration of these systems.
Evolution of the Technology
This paper reviews the attributes of an emerging space conditioning technology; variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. Material presented in this paper was synthesized from the open literature, private interviews with industry experts and data (sometimes proprietary data) obtained from manufacturers. VRF systems are enhanced versions of ductless multi-split systems, permitting more indoor units to be connected to each outdoor unit and providing additional features such as simultaneous heating and cooling and heat recovery. VRF technology uses smart integrated controls, variable speed drives, refrigerant piping, and heat recovery to provide products with attributes that include high energy efficiency, flexible operation, ease of installation, low noise, zone control, and comfort using all-electric technology. VRF systems are very popular in Asia and Europe and, with an increasing support available from major U.S. and Asian manufacturers are worth considering for multi-zone commercial building applications in the U.S.
This paper provides an overview of variable refrigerant flow system technology, including the market situation, advantages and disadvantages for the customer, possible impact on the electric utility, applications recommendations, and technology attributes. Also addressed are what is holding back the technology, including lack of verified third party field data; codes and standards issues; technology improvements needed; and market actions needed to increase penetration of these systems.
Evolution of the Technology
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