VRF vs VRV – Is there a difference? How do they work?
If you have been reading our blog, or researching air conditioning systems because you plan on upgrading, you may have run across the terms VRF and VRV. And as with any industry, the HVAC field is filled with its fair share of terms that may be confusing to the consumer. Allow us to shed light on the differences between two of these terms — VRF and VRV.
Understanding the Differences Between VRV and VRF?
To be perfectly honest, VRF and VRV are two different terms for the same type of inverter-driven HVAC technology (see our previous blog). Simply put, both terms refer to technology that allows the compressor to vary its output. Daikin invented the first VRV HVAC systems during the early 1980’s. They registered the VRV term (which stands for Variable Refrigerant Volume) as an official trademark.
All other companies use VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) for their similar HVAC systems.
That’s the long and short of it. But the real question is how exactly does VRV/VRF work?
When a homeowner turns an indoor unit on, the outdoor compressor begins to go to work. It will examine the outdoor temperature, indoor requirements (such as operation mode and set point temperature), and will calculate the exact level at which the compressor should run. If another indoor unit is switched on, the outdoor compressor will re-calculate the requirements and make any necessary adjustments to compressor operation.
This process increases efficiency, overall comfort, and most importantly reduces overall power consumption, which means significant savings for businesses and homeowners.
When contemplating a VRF/VRV system, there are many excellent manufacturers to choose from, including LG, Daikin and Mitsubishi. But the most important part of a VRF/VRV installaton is choosing an experienced contractor who is well versed in this cutting-edge technology.
