The Differences Between VRV and VRF
There have been instances where people think that VRV and VRF are two different HVAC technologies. But to your surprise, both terms refer to a similar type of technology just with two different terms. The term VRV refers to “Variable Refrigerant Volume” whereas VRF refers to “Variable Refrigerant Flow”.
Back in 1982, Daikin became the first company to invent Inverter technology-based compressor – VRV HVAC systems. Being one of the leading companies in the industry, Daikin registered the term VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) as an official trademark. Due to this, other companies had to come up with a different term for the same technology. They termed it as VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow). It is widely used by the rest of the manufacturing companies in the industry.
Now that you know a bit about these two terms of HVAC technology, let me take you into detail as to what these terms actually are & what they do. If you’re thinking how is this information even relevant to me?
Well, it is quite relevant for you if you have an Air-Conditioner at your home or workspace. There is a need for a little knowledge around the same to maintain it.
What is VRV or VRF System?
Basically, VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) and VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) is a technology that provides climate control through which you can maintain varying temperatures for a different space or different offices in the same building at the same time.
It is considered to be the most advanced HVAC technology. These systems work using several technical stuff such as:
Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the only coolant material present in the overall system. It is solely responsible for cooling the water that flows in the refrigerant piping across the system. It will in result provide the cold air. The commonly used refrigerant is known as Freon.
This refrigerant acts as a sponge that absorbs the heat. Here, the coolant flows across the compressor into the condenser where it transforms from a gaseous to a liquid state.
Inverter Compressors
These compressors facilitate lower power consumption with the help of partial cooling and heating loads.
Air-Handlers
These systems are integrated with diverse air handlers in the indoor unit that eventually meet at the one big refrigerant circuit.
Structure of VRV or VRF System
Basically, it consists of a large outdoor unit (comprising one or multiple compressors) which is connected to several indoor units with refrigerant piping that passes air from outdoor to indoor units utilizing the refnet joints and communication wiring.
For controlling the refrigerant supply of different spaces, each of the indoor units uses an LEV (electronic liquid expansion valve). Even the outdoor unit has to vary its output according to the demands of indoor space. It is made possible with the help of Heat exchanger valved in sections, Modulating fans, Multiple compressors, and Variable speed inverter drive compressor.
These systems consist of communication wiring. It refers to a 2 wired cable that is tied from the outdoor to each indoor unit. This wiring creates an internal closed-loop network that holds utter importance in the installation of a VRV / VRF system.
These indoor units can be controlled by their own wired control panel. There could be instances where indoor units are controlled by wireless remotes or centralized controllers.
Why Choose VRV or VRF Systems?
There are several benefits attached to a VRV / VRF system such as lesser maintenance, highly sustainable, quieter operation. These factors provide the ultimate comfort to your family members at home and staff members at the office. The primary reason behind the increased installation of VRF systems in commercial buildings is its Longer piping and slender units.
Installing a VRF / VRV system will provide the comfort of the temperature setting. It automatically sets the suitable temperature according to the current needs of a space. These systems are highly preferable in places where there is constant change in temperature.
One of the most important factors is its lower power consumption that will eventually result in a lesser cost of your electricity bill.
Wrapping Up
We hope this article has given you the much-needed clarity on VRV and VRF. This information will make you competent enough to understand some essential aspects of your Air-Conditioners. If you have any feedback or query, Do let us know in the comment section.
Do you think we have missed any point? Feel free to share in the comments.
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