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Measure: Convert Central Air HVAC to Variable Refrigerant Flow System

Building Size: 50,000 gsf
Climate Zone: Cold

Measure: Convert Central Air HVAC to Variable Refrigerant Flow System

Building Size: 50,000 gsf
Climate Zone: Cold
Convert Central Air HVAC to Variable Refrigerant Flow System
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Measure Simple Payback (years) Approximate Capital Cost ($) Annual Energy Savings (kBtu/sf) Annual Energy Savings (kBtu/yr) Annual Cost Savings ($/sf) Annual Cost Savings ($/yr)
Convert Central Air HVAC to Variable Refrigerant Flow System 10 $1,210,000 -- -- -- --

Description:

What Is This Measure?

Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) is an HVAC technology that can simultaneously heat and cool different spaces in a facility and allow for greater temperature control while conserving energy. (VRF) systems use refrigerant as their cooling or heating medium. A compressor unit, typically located on a roof, is connected through refrigerant lines to multiple indoor fan coil units, each individually controllable.

This technology has the potential to achieve 34 percent energy savings compared to older systems.

Special Considerations

VRF has proven to be effective particularly in retrofits of older buildings where room for additional ductwork is limited. For new construction, target larger-scale high-performance buildings.

See GSA’s Green Proving Groundopens in new window for more details on the  field demonstration findings.