Studying Variable Refrigerant Flow Systems

One promising solution to make buildings more efficient is the variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system, an all-electric alternative to traditional HVAC systems. VRF systems work by efficiently moving heat throughout a building via refrigerant as opposed to water or air. Buildings that use VRF can reduce carbon emissions and prepare for a clean energy future.

The Minnesota Department of Commerce’s Conservation Applied Research Development (CARD) program has contracted Slipstream, CEE, and LHB to lead its field demonstration of VRF systems in Minnesota. The study seeks to quantify the energy and comfort benefits of VRF systems, particularly in cold climates.

Typical buildings that can benefit from VRF include hotels, multifamily residential buildings, office buildings, and educational institutions, but any commercial building with multiple heating and cooling zones could be an ideal candidate for this technology. The study will identify demonstration sites in Minnesota, including sites that have recently installed a VRF system or are under consideration for an HVAC upgrade.