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Review of the advances and applications of variable refrigerant flow heating,

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DOI: 10.1007/s40095-020-00346-0

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Review of the advances and applications
of variable refrigerant flow heating,
ventilating, and air-conditioning systems
for improving indoor thermal comfort and
air quality
Napoleon Enteria, Odinah Cuartero-
Enteria & Takao Sawachi

International Journal of Energy and

Environmental Engineering

ISSN 2008-9163

Int J Energy Environ Eng

DOI 10.1007/s40095-020-00346-0

1 23
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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40095-020-00346-0

TECHNICAL NOTE

Review of the advances and applications of variable refrigerant flow

heating, ventilating, and air‑conditioning systems for improving
indoor thermal comfort and air quality
Napoleon Enteria1 · Odinah Cuartero‑Enteria2 · Takao Sawachi3

Received: 28 February 2020 / Accepted: 5 May 2020

© Islamic Azad University 2020

Abstract
The maintenance of a healthy and comfortable indoor environment consumes a significant amount of energy in the built
environment. Heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems can provide a healthy indoor thermal environment
and air quality. Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) HVAC systems utilize a refrigerant to transfer heat from a heat source to
a heat sink by changing its phase from liquid to gas and from gas to liquid. VRF HVAC systems are becoming popular
due to their flexible operation, particularly under dynamic thermal loading and weather conditions. The advances of the
VRF HVAC system include the utilization of new materials and concepts that make the system robust and dynamic, give it
high heat transfer capabilities, allow it to have a compact design, and make it energy efficient. Due to its energy efficiency,
indoor thermal comfort and quality, and versatile applications, the VRF HVAC system is one of the most viable alternatives
to conventional HVAC systems. As such, extensive efforts in the research, development, testing, and application of these
systems have been made. Despite these advancements and the demand for high-quality, energy-efficient, and comfortable
indoor thermal environments, VRF HVAC systems still require further development, which is the topic of this review paper.

Keywords Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) · Heating · ventilating · and air-conditioning (HVAC) system · Outdoor
environment · Indoor environment · Air quality

Introduction refrigerant flow (VRF) heating, ventilating, and air-condi-

The selection and installation of the most appropriate air-
handling and processing units to support indoor environ-
ment requirements are crucial to maintaining a healthy and
comfortable indoor environment. Due to increasing energy
and environmental concerns, combined with a demand
for better indoor thermal comfort and air quality, variable
* Napoleon Enteria
napoleon.enteria@g.msuiit.edu.ph; enteria@enteria‑ge.com;
nenteria@yahoo.com
1
Department of Mechanical Engineering and Technology,
College of Engineering and Technology, Mindanao State
University - Iligan Institute of Technology, 9200 Iligan,
Lanao Del Norte, Philippines
2
Surigao Del Sur State University – Cantilan Campus,
8317 Cantilan, Surigao Del Sur, Philippines
3
Building Research Institute, National Research
and Development Agency, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305‑0802, Japan
tioning (HVAC) systems are an alternative worth exploring.
Indoor Environment
The maintenance of a healthy and comfortable indoor envi-
ronment under different outdoor conditions is one of the
most energy-intensive requirements of any built environment
[1–4]. Under different climatic conditions, HVAC systems
are needed to provide an acceptable indoor thermal environ-
ment for the occupants, equipment, and devices [4, 5]. An
uncontrolled indoor environment moisture level has adverse
effects on the building’s occupants, installed equipment and
devices, and the building’s infrastructure [6]. There are dif-
ferent health issues imposed on a building’s occupants when
the moisture level of the air is not controlled [7]; too much or
too little moisture can leave occupants vulnerable to indoor
environmental health issues.
The maintenance of acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ)
is an important consideration in any built environment, as it
prevents the occurrence of detrimental health effects in the

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building’s occupants (i.e., the so-called sick building syn-
drome) [8, 9]. Poor IAQ is detrimental to occupants’ health,
productivity, and performance in any task that requires men-
tal or physical strength [10–12]. Volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), which are the main source of indoor pollutants,
are emitted into the indoor environment from the products,
activities, furniture, appliances, equipment, and devices in
the environment [13–15]. Short- or long-term exposure to
VOCs affects the health of a building’s occupants [10, 16].
Hence, efficiently controlling indoor pollutants is necessary
for maintaining a healthy indoor environment [17]. Airborne
organisms in an indoor environment are a prominent cause
of unhealthy indoor environments [18]. The uncontrolled
spread of indoor airborne organisms is dangerous, and this
spread can reach different indoor environment locations and
affect other occupants [19].
Heating, ventilating, and air‑conditioning systems
HVAC systems can be used to create a healthy indoor ther-
mal environment and provide high-quality air while con-
suming minimal amounts of energy. Thus, HVAC systems
are crucial when considering present concerns about energy
use and the environment [2, 20, 21]. HVAC systems pro-
cess recirculated indoor air and outdoor air to produce an
acceptable level of IAQ throughout an indoor environment
[22]. The conditioning of recirculated air is economical but
detrimental to IAQ; meanwhile, the conditioning of fresh
outdoor air improves IAQ but consumes a lot of energy [23,
24]. However, a combination of other devices, UV lights,
and ­TiO2, which can control air biochemical contents, enable
the conditioning of recirculated air to be safely and economi-
cally reintroduced in indoor environments [25].
HVAC systems normally either process both recircu-
lated indoor air and fresh outdoor air mixed at proportions
based on IAQ requirements with the aim to reduce energy
consumption [26]. The use of different HVAC systems has
increased as the demand for quality indoor environmental
conditions has increased. As a result, the annual sales of
HVAC systems have grown [27].
Refrigerant-based HVAC systems utilize a refrigerant
as the working fluid that is used to transfer heat from the
heat source to the heat sink, depending on which direction
the heat needs to flow (i.e., indoor to outdoor or outdoor to
indoor) by means of a refrigerant compressor and a four-way
expansion valve with valve [28, 29]. The refrigerant is a
working substance that absorbs and desorbs heat by control-
ling its pressure to change its condensing or boiling tempera-
ture. The refrigerant changes either from a liquid to a gas or
from a gas to a liquid upon absorbing or desorbing heat [30].
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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
The compressor allows the gas-phase refrigerant to move
along the closed-loop pipe and pass through different system
components, heat exchangers (high and low pressure), and
expansion valves [31, 32]. A refrigerant-based HVAC system
can condition both recirculated air and fresh outdoor air in
different proportions, depending on the desired IAQ [33]. The
demand for refrigerant-based HVAC systems has increased
because of their advantages over other HVAC systems, par-
ticularly for multi-purpose buildings with different rooms or
functions [27].
Variable refrigerant flow heating, ventilating,
and air‑conditioning systems
A VRF HVAC system utilizes a refrigerant to transfer heat
from a heat source to a heat sink by means of a refrigerant
compressor coupled to a variable speed electric motor and
either an electric heat pump or a gas heat pump internal com-
bustion engine [34]. The proper control of refrigerant flow is
needed to reduce superheating and prevent a two-phase refrig-
erant at the inlet of the compressor [35]. The VRF HVAC sys-
tem is an energy-efficient refrigerant-based HVAC system, as
the system’s operation depends on the desired indoor environ-
mental conditions. Thus, its energy consumption varies [36,
37]. The system’s use is flexible for applications that need
a dynamic operation to meet the needed indoor environment
requirements [38]. Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a
VRF HVAC system used for large-scale applications that have
multiple outdoor units connected to multiple indoor units. Fig-
ure 1a shows the application of the system in a large space
with multiple indoor rooms. Such a system can be utilized in
different varieties of indoor environments—offices, conference
rooms, lobbies, etc. Figure 1b shows a schematic diagram of a
system with multiple outdoor units and multiple indoor units to
show the application of a VRF HVAC in a multi-story building
with multiple indoor rooms [39, 40].
By maintaining precise control of refrigerant flow, which
depends on the amount of heat required in the indoor environ-
ment, thermal comfort is maintained as the air temperature
is stabilized [41]. With a stable indoor environment (due to
the changing compressor speed and the opening of the elec-
tronic expansion valve (EEV)), the system’s electric energy
consumption is minimized [26]. With the introduction of
fresh outdoor air using a ventilation system [42] coupled with
a VRF HVAC system, the required IAQ can be attained. How-
ever, this assumes that the outdoor air is less polluted than
the indoor air [43]. The use of either a ventilation system or
a dedicated outdoor air system is common for obtaining the
required indoor environment [44, 45].
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Fig. 1  A variable refrigerant

flow heating, ventilating, and
air-conditioning system with
multiple outdoor and indoor
units: a sample application [27].
b Simplified and generalized
diagram (authors’ diagram)

(a)
(Outdoor Environment) (Indoor Environment)

1 2 3 n

Indoor Units

1 2 3 n

Indoor Units

Outdoor Units
1 2 3 n

Indoor Units
1 2 n
1 2 3 n

Indoor Units

(b)

Variable refrigerant flow heating,
ventilating, and air‑conditioning system
technology
A VRF HVAC system has several components that are inter-
connected by a refrigerant tube. The performances of dif-
ferent components affect the operation and performance of
the whole system in providing the desired air temperature,
humidity, air quality, and flow rate.
Internal system
Components
The primary components of a VRF HVAC system are
the compressor, which is coupled to either an electric
motor [46, 47] or an internal combustion engine [48];
fin-and-tube heat exchangers (high and low pressure) [49,
50]; a variable opening expansion valve, which is coupled
to a stepper motor called an EEV [51, 52]; and a control
system [53]. These components are connected by refriger-
ant copper tubing [54, 55]. A digital control system syn-
chronizes the operation of the compressor and expansion
valve to meet the control settings [56–58].
The compressor moves the refrigerant along the looped
refrigerant tube that connects the different components to
each other. The evolution of using rotary compressors
from the piston compressor makes the system lightweight,
gives it a high capacity, and allows it to operate for a long
time. Such compressors include scroll compressors, vapor-
injection scroll compressors [59], and linear compressors,
which can provide significant advantages related to the
selection of refrigerants, miniaturization, high efficiency,
and non-start/stop [60, 61]. Linear compressor efficiency

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was found to be primarily affected by the clearance and
pressure ratio [62].
Another type of compressor is the rotary-type compres-
sor. This type of compressor has a novel structure that is
based on the rolling piston-type rotary compressor. This
design improves the cooling capacity and the mechanical
efficiency of the compressor [63]. The design of differ-
ent inlets and outlets of the compressor, which increases
the performance of the compressor, is another important
factor [64]. A cooled compressor can be included in a
compressor to minimize superheating and improve ther-
modynamic performance [65]. On the other hand, alterna-
tive energy sources can be utilized to minimize electric
energy consumption by using, for example, solar energy
or waste energy [66]. An exergetic analysis indicated that
the compressor has more potential for improvement than
other components [67]. Figure 2 shows the different types
of compressors utilized in vapor compression heat pump
systems. The compressors can be coupled either to an elec-
tric motor or an internal heat engine. The compressors
Fig. 2  Types of compressors installed in different heat pump systems, such as VRF HVAC systems: a swing compressor [68]; b corotating scroll
compressors [69]; c rotary compressors [70]; d linear compressor [71]
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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
displayed in the figure are commonly installed in VRF
HVAC systems.
Heat exchangers serve mainly to transfer heat between
the refrigerant and the air. A high-pressure heat exchanger
(called a condenser) transfers heat from the refrigerant to the
air, while a low-pressure heat exchanger (called an evapora-
tor) transfers heat from the air to the refrigerant via a phase
change or the latent heat of the refrigerant. Fin-and-tube
heat exchangers are widely used in refrigeration and air-
conditioning industries. The proper selection of microfinned
tubes is needed to generate turbulence in the refrigerant flow,
which enhances the heat transfer coefficient and, therefore, is
important for the increase in heat transfer rate [72].
Plain fin-and-tube gas cooler coils with a horizontal slit
on the fin increase the heat rejection rate of the gas cooler,
thus improving the efficiency of the refrigeration system
[73]. The heat pipe heat exchanger increases the heat transfer
rate of the heat pipe and the condenser tube, thereby lower-
ing the condenser temperature output and, in turn, increasing
the system’s capacity [74].
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Several heat exchanger designs have been implemented
to increase their performance [75]. The installation of the
geometrical parameters of a vertical conically coiled tube-
in-tube evaporator/condenser can increase the effectiveness
and coefficient of performance (COP) of the system [76].
Another improvement is the installation of a twisted strip
inside the condenser tube [50]. Also, multi-pass parallel flow
condensers with liquid–vapor separation provide further heat
transfer enhancements to condensers [77], and porous sur-
faces are widely used to enhance boiling heat transfer and
can be used in the heat exchanger design [78].
The condensation heat transfer coefficient in microfin
tubes indicates that the average heat transfer coefficients
are greater than those of the smooth tube and can further
increase the efficiency of the heat exchanger design [79].
Furthermore, the boiling heat transfer coefficient of the
enhanced tube increases as the heat flux (which is a heat
transfer enhancement factor) increases [80]. Also, research-
ers have shown that an evaporator’s capacity is greater than
that of a non-grooved tube evaporator [81]. Also, wrapping
wire mesh on low-fin tubes was shown to enhance the boil-
ing heat transfer coefficient when compared with a smooth
tube [82].
The corrosion that occurs in the joints between copper
and aluminum (called copper aluminum oxide) affects heat
transfer because the heat conductivity of aluminum oxide
is very low. Hence, specific high-resistance protective coat-
ings should be used in heat exchangers [83]. Moreover, the
application of microchannel heat exchangers, which have
Fig. 3  Physical characteristics
of mini-channel heat exchangers
applied in the latest VRF HVAC
systems [86]
high heat transfer performance and low air resistance, can
significantly decrease the refrigerant charge volume and
reduce damage due to the flooding of liquid in the com-
pressor [84]. Moreover, it has been indicated that using a
microchannel evaporator reduces a refrigerator’s refrigerant
charge by 60% [85].
Mini-channel heat exchangers (Fig. 3) are becoming pop-
ular in commercial heat pump systems. These heat exchang-
ers are preferred over fin-and-tube heat exchangers because
of their smaller inner volume and larger heat transfer area.
Table 1 lists notable advancements that have been made to
heat exchangers. These advancements are mostly based on
the physical characteristic evaluation and application of dif-
ferent materials.
Different throttling devices, such as capillary tubes, ejec-
tors, thermostatic expansion valves, and EEVs, can be used
to constrain the flow of a refrigerant from the high-pressure
side to the low-pressure side [95–99]. The precise control of
the EEV opening is vital for the stability of the system [100].
The precise control of the EEV in coordination with com-
pressor speed is necessary to prevent an increase in power
consumption, particularly when there is a change in thermal
load [101, 102] developed an adaptive proportional–inte-
gral–derivative (PID) controller to regulate the superheating
degree at the outlet of an evaporator.
Figure 4 shows different types of EEVs. Figure 4a shows
a typical EEV used in different vapor compression heat
pump systems. Figure 4b shows a miniaturized EEV that
might be used in a micro-electro-mechanical (MEM) system.
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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Table 1  Heat exchangers that can be applied in VRF HVAC systems

References Main description Key results

Kwak et al. [87] Heat transfer rates on a number of refrigerant paths Optimal number of paths based on part loading has a
higher heat transfer rate than that based on rated load
Moghaddam et al. [88] Horizontal smooth pipe and spiral coil inserted pipes Insets result in increased heat transfer and pressure drop
Sajadi et al. [89] Plain and twisted tape inserted tubes Increase in heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop
Kim and Jeong [90] Metallic materials irradiated with chromium ions Condensation heat transfer coefficient is more than three
times of the theoretical value predicted by Nusselt’s
film theory
Knipper et al. [91] Heat transfer and pressure drop during condensation in Heat transfer and pressure drop values increase in rectan-
multiport flat tubes gular microchannels
Ribeiro and Barbosa [92] Peripheral fins Higher values of thermal conductance and cooling
capacity than other types of fins
Rahman et al. [93] Rectangular multiport mini-channels with and without Heat transfer coefficient for rectangular mini-channels
fins with fins is higher than without fins
Del Col et al. [94] Square and circular channels Heat transfer coefficient for the square channel is always
higher than for the circular channel

Fig. 4  Types of electronic expansion valves. a Geometrical structure of an EEV applied in VRF HVAC system [103]; b EEV based on MEMS
which is potential in VRF HVAC system [104]

Other components of a VRF HVAC system, such as the
four-way valve, direct the flow of the refrigerant after it has
passed through the compressor either to the indoor or out-
door heat exchanger(s) [105, 106]. The frequent reversal of
the four-way valve can cause the refrigerant to leak, which is
unsafe [107]. A subcooler is used to further cool the refrig-
erant below the saturation temperature prior to its passing
through the expansion valve. The subcooler ensures that the
refrigerant passes through the expansion valve in a liquid
phase at a temperature below the saturation temperature.
Subcooling is carried out using a heat exchanger that is sepa-
rated from the condenser (subcooler) and provides a high
degree of improvement, as this method is about 31% more
effective than the same cycle without subcooling, according
to Pitarch et al. [108]. A subcooler is usually adopted in a
system to avoid flash vapor generation in the liquid pipeline
[109]. Hence, subcooling substantially improves the overall
COP of a system and reduces the need for bypass flow [110].
A vapor-injection cycle with a subcooler and flash tank
for air-source heat pumps has high energy efficiency [111].
Studies on multi-split VRF systems show that a subcooler
provides little benefit to systems with a short pipeline [109].
In addition, determining and applying an optimum subcool-
ing temperature yield high performance [112]. Using suc-
tion line heat exchangers increases the cooling capacity and
efficiency of the device while reducing the possibility that
the liquid refrigerant will flow back into the compressor
[113]. A subcooling process that employs a liquid-suction

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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
heat exchanger to improve the performance of an automotive
air conditioner is associated with increased cooling capacity
[114].
An oil separator separates the lubricant oil that is mixed
into the refrigerant when it passes through the compressor
[115]. The collected oil is recirculated back into the com-
pressor to lubricate the system. The lubrication oil that is
carried to and settles in the heat exchanger alters the heat
exchanger’s performance [116]. Thus, the oil-refrigerant
mixture of a system affects the heat transfer coefficient [117].
Component combinations
The major components of a VRF HVAC system are com-
bined based on different designs and specifications, as this
improves the performance of specific applications [118].
The simplest system is the simple loop, which consists of
a single compressor, a single outdoor heat exchanger, an
indoor heat exchanger, and an expansion valve. The single
loop VRF HVAC system is typical in small units, such as
window-type or split-type systems, as such systems must
be compact to fit into windows or other small areas [119].
On the other hand, complex VRF HVAC systems involve
multiple compressors, multiple indoor units, and multi-
ple outdoor units [40, 120–122]. The VRF HVAC system
with multiple outdoor units and indoor units is intended for
large thermal loading requirements [123]. Many varieties
of advanced VRF HVAC systems are used to meet specific
on-site requirements. These systems can simultaneously heat
up and cool down different parts of the indoor environment
[124]. Another design method utilizes the heat produced in
the high-temperature heat exchanger (high-pressure side) to
heat up water for domestic use [125, 126]. An advanced
VRF HVAC system optimizes the defrosting mode to main-
tain the indoor environment temperature [127]. There is
also a frost-free air-source heat pump system, the operation
of which depends on the EEV opening [128]. Also, vapor
compression refrigeration systems with variable speed com-
pressors and vapor injection have exceptional COP [129].
There are minor but important components of the VRF
HVAC system that are to control the refrigerant pressure
and the temperature inlet of the compressor—an example of
such a component is the bypass tube from the high-pressure
side to the low-pressure side of the refrigerant loop [130]. A
bypass tube can be used to remove the gas-phase refrigerant
before it passes through the expansion valve. The bypass
tube can also be used to lower the temperature of the super-
heated refrigerant before it reaches the compressor. The sub-
cooler heat exchanger can be used to subcool the refrigerant
before it passes through the expansion valve. The subcooled
refrigerant can support high thermal loads in the evaporator.
The oil separator is used to remove the oil in the refriger-
ant [131, 132]. The oil–gas separator is the most essential
component of the oil-return system, and its separation effi-
ciency directly influences the performance of a VRF system
[115]. The oil separator recovers the oil that is mixed with
the refrigerant while it passes through the compressor. The
recovered oil is then reused to lubricate the compressor. It
prevents large amounts of lubricating oil from being carried
in the refrigerant tube, which could affect the heat transfer
process in the heat exchanger. Biodegradable oil can be used
as an alternative to synthetic compression lubrication oil and
has been shown to lower friction, though it does not reduce
wear [133].
System control
An advanced digital electronic control for a VRF HVAC
system must be implemented to support the proper opera-
tion of the system when it is combined with other systems
[134, 135]. The refrigerant flow rate among different indoor
units must be controlled properly for the system’s operation
to be optimized and for the desired indoor temperature and
humidity to be reached [136, 137]. Moreover, the detection
and control of oil concentration help to maintain the perfor-
mance of the system [138–140]. In addition, the effect of
oil within the compressor should be considered, as it affects
the operation of the compressor’s moving parts [141]. In
addition, controlling the air fan, such as in the evaporator,
which has a variable speed drive, can make a system more
efficient [142].
The precise control of a VRF HVAC system’s individual
components synchronizes the total system’s operational pro-
cedure [143, 144]. The control of the compressor’s speed
depends on the amount of refrigerant needed for the load,
which depends on the set-point temperature of each of the
indoor units’ heat exchangers [136, 145, 146]. The control of
the expansion valve opening depends on the desired indoor
air temperature [147]. Meanwhile, the control of the sub-
cooler depends on how much subcooling is needed prior to
the opening of the expansion valve, as well as how the sub-
cooler will affect the performance of the system [145, 148,
149]. Therefore, the subcooler expansion valve needs to be
controlled [150]. Moreover, the efficient design and opera-
tion of a subcooler depend on other components’ operation
[109].
External system
Outdoor units
Air-sourced VRF HVAC systems are widely used because
they are simple and cost relatively little to install while hav-
ing a wide range of applicability for different types of built
environments [151]. In urban areas, outdoor air-sourced
VRF HVAC units are installed on the tops and sides of
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buildings, as well as on the ground. The air intake pathway
is crucial for these VRF HVAC systems, as the amount and
temperature of the air taken in affect the performance of the
system.
Air-source heat pump (ASHP) systems contain specifi-
cally designed inverter technology ducted series heat pumps
(HP) and are highly competitive with ground-source heat
pumps (GSHPs) [152]. ASHPs perform better and pro-
vide greater thermal comfort than water-source heat pump
(WSHPs) and are therefore more suitable to be applied at
low outdoor temperatures, such as those experienced in
northern China [153]. However, ice formation is a poten-
tial problem when using an ASHP for heating purposes.
Hence, several methods (e.g., thermal storage) have been
suggested for minimizing the effects of frosting [154], and
many researchers have focused on how to optimize defrost-
ing operations [155, 156]. Hybrid desiccant-refrigerant heat
pump systems have also been used to eliminate frost [157].
Other types of VRF HVAC systems besides air-source
VRF HVAC systems include water- and ground-sourced
systems. Water- and ground-sourced VRF HVAC systems
are more efficient than air-sourced systems [126, 158, 159].
These systems tend to be used when the required resources
are readily accessible and when making a borehole is not
difficult [48, 160, 161]. A ground-source heat pump uses
a direct expansion method to circulate a mixed refrigerant
through a ground loop. Takeda et al. [162] found that the
COP in the cooling mode was greater than 10. When using
a ground-sourced VRF HVAC system, cost can also be mini-
mized by using a foundation file to make a heat exchanger
[163]. The ground can be used either as a heat sink or a heat
source [164]. Alternatively, the system can be set up so that
all the cold air from the earth air heat exchanger system is
utilized to cool the air conditioner’s condenser coil, thereby
reducing power consumption [165]. Furthermore, the appli-
cation of an evaporative-cooled condenser instead of an air-
cooled condenser reduces power consumption and improves
the COP [166, 167].
Indoor units
The exchange of heat between the air and the refrigerant
inside of an indoor unit is the most typical arrangement
[168, 169]. The design of the evaporator is vital [170, 171].
During cooling mode operation, the refrigerant that flows
through the indoor unit heat exchanger is at low pressure—
thus, its saturation temperature is also low. Once inside the
low-pressure heat exchanger, it absorbs heat, and it changes
from a liquid into a gas, thus cooling the air passing around
the fins of the heat exchanger. During heating mode opera-
tion [172], the high-pressure refrigerant passes inside the
indoor unit heat exchanger, while the air passes through the
heat exchanger’s fins. The high-temperature compressed
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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
gas-phase refrigerant transfers its heat (known as latent heat)
to the air, thus changing from a gas into a liquid. Thus, the
air passing through the indoor unit heat exchanger becomes
hotter. Hence, the design of an evaporator that can serve as
a condenser is essential for the condensation process to be
effective [77, 173].
In another configuration, a third fluid is used to transfer
heat between the refrigerant and the air inside the indoor
environment using a fan coil unit [174]. Yet another con-
figuration involves the utilization of a refrigerant system
to lower the air temperature and another system to control
humidity and ventilation [175]. Some regulations do not
allow for the circulation (and, therefore, the possible leak-
age) of a refrigerant inside the indoor environment, particu-
larly when a flammable refrigerant is used [176]. Hence, a
third fluid (e.g., water) is needed to transfer heat between the
refrigerant and the indoor air [177, 178]. The heat transfer
between the refrigerant and the third fluid occurs outside
of the indoor environment. Meanwhile, mass transfer might
occur between the refrigerant and the secondary working
fluid—the early detection of this condition is vital to users’
safety [179].
Piping, etc.
A sealed refrigerant tube can withstand high pressure as well
as the low pressure created by a compressor and the expan-
sion valve connected to the major and minor components of
the VRF HVAC system. Refrigerant tubes are normally insu-
lated to minimize thermal gains and losses, as these phenom-
ena have significant effects on a system’s performance [180,
181]. Studies have shown that the selection of tube insula-
tion affects the performance of the entire system [182, 183].
An appropriate amount of refrigerant is needed to ensure
optimum performance [51, 184–186]. Hence, optimization
designs have been devised to reduce the refrigerant charge
by enhancing the level of heat transfer in the heat exchang-
ers [92, 187]. Also, the superheating and subcooling of the
refrigerant affect the performance of a system [188]. The
liquid-refrigerant carryover to the compressor also affects a
compressor’s performance [189]. However, gradual refriger-
ant leakage is difficult to detect, especially in small systems.
Hence, a method that utilizes sensors for this purpose has
been proposed [185, 190].
Modern VRF HVAC systems can automatically detect
possible refrigerant leaks. Also, new refrigerants have been
developed that have lower environmental impacts [30], and
other refrigerants have been developed to be used under
ambient conditions at high temperatures [191]. Addition-
ally, refrigerants with nanoparticles have been created to
improve the thermal characteristics of the environment
[192], and refrigerants with nanofluids are used to enhance
thermal characteristics by using, for example, ­Al2O3 [193,
 Author's personal copy
International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

194] showed that nano-refrigerants, such as copper oxides, Compressor

can increase the COP of a system by 16.66% and decrease
its power consumption by 13.79%. The presence of nano- The model of a compressor can be based on the compres-
particles generally improves frictional pressure drops and sor’s map data from the manufacturer using the equation
Brownian motion. The deposition of a molecular layer of below [101]:
nanoparticles on the inner tube surface also intensifies the ( )
conduction and micro-convection that occur in the fluid ṁ Map orẆ Map = f C1 Tc2 + C2 Tc + C3 Te2 + C4 Te + C5 Tc Te + C6
[195]. (1)
Table 2 shows alternative refrigerants that can be used This equation can be used in the compressor work, Ẇ Act:
either as a replacement for existing refrigerants or as pos- [ ( )]
vMap
sible candidates for future VRF HVAC systems. Many cur- ṁ Act = 1 + Fv ṁ Map (2)
rently used refrigerants are high in global warming potential vAct − 1
(GWP) and ozone depletion potential (ODP). Hence, natural
( )( )
refrigerants are desirable alternatives, as they have very low ṁ Act Δhisen,Act
GWP. However, some of these refrigerants are flammable. Ẇ Act = Ẇ Map (3)
ṁ Map Δhisen,Map
Therefore, several measures are being taken to determine
how they could be applied. The compressor model can also be based on isentropic
There are other designs and configurations of VRF HVAC efficiency [211]:
systems that utilize thermal storage—either latent or sen- ( )
sible—to increase performance [208]. Other VRF HVAC hro,s − hri
systems have been designed to handle the latent load and h r o = hr i + (4)
𝜂is
sensible load separately. One of these designs utilizes desic-
cant materials to control the latent load and a VRF system where ηis has been obtained from gathered empirical data,
to control sensible load [209, 210]. as a function of operating pressures.

Evaporator

Variable refrigerant flow heating, The mathematical model of an evaporator can be created
ventilating, and air‑conditioning system by finding the refrigeration capacity based on the enthalpy
modelling difference and the refrigerant flow [134]:
( )
The development of the mathematical model of the VRF Q̇ r = ṁ r hro − hri (5)
HVAC system based on the laws of thermodynamics with
heat transfer and fluid mechanics is important to fully under- The evaporator can also be modelled based on the heat
stand the system’s behavior and performance. The model can exchanger energy balance [211]:
be used for component or system evaluation and optimiza- ( ) ( )
tion when applied under real conditions. ṁ re hro,e − hri,e = ṁ ae Cpa Tai,e − Tao,e (6)

The refrigerant flow model of a condenser and evapora-

Components models
The VRF HVAC system consists of four main components—
a compressor, evaporator, condenser, and expansion valves.
These components create a closed-loop thermodynamic
system that interacts under two conditions—an indoor con-
dition and an outdoor condition. The models can be devel-
oped either as a lump [211] or a detailed model [212]—the
details are important for specific evaluations of the differ-
ent components. Modelling has also been based on specific
empirical data of the system’s various components [101]
and on combining empirical information from manufactur-
ers’ information [213], experimental results, and theoretical
considerations [214].
tor is based on the assumption that (1) 1D flow; (2) straight,
horizontal, and constant cross-sectional serpentine; (3) neg-
ligible diffusion effects in the axial direction; (4) negligible
pressure drop; and (5) negligible thermal inertia of the walls
[212] can be used to model the condenser and evaporator,
the spatial domain of which is divided into two zones (i.e.,
single- and two-phase flow regions). These can be repre-
sented by the general equation below:
𝜕 1 𝜕
𝜕t
(𝜌f ) +
Ac 𝜕z
(mf ) = S (7)
where f = 1 and S = 0 retrieve the conservation of mass.
The ɛ-NTU method for a multi-zone heat condenser and
evaporator can be done. The condenser comprises three

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 Table 2  Different working fluids for application in VRF HVAC systems either as replacements for currently used fluids or as potential candidates for future systems
13
References
Alhendal et al. [196]
Calleja-Anta et al. [197]
Devecioğlu and Oruç [198]
Heredia-Aricapa et al. [199] RAC systems operate with refrigerants R134a, R404A, and R410A, which
Jain et al. [200]
Li et al. [201]
Longo et al. [202]
Sun et al. [203]
Wang et al. [204]
Agarwal et al. [205]
Kosmadakis and Neofytou [206] Nano-refrigerants: refrigerants R134a and R1234yf and nanoparticles ­Al2O3 Heat transfer coefficients increased by up to 6% during boiling and condensa-
Lopez-Belchi [49]
Shen et al. [207]
Main description
Low-GWP refrigerants, R152a, R1234yf, and R1234ze(E), were examined
with reference to the current high GWP of R134a
110,880 refrigerant mixtures were evaluated thermodynamically against
R-600a and R-290 for refrigeration purposes
R1234ze(E) was used as a substitute for R22 in an air-conditioning device
have GWP values of 1300, 3943, and 2088, respectively
A two-stage transcritical ­N2O refrigeration cycle with a vortex tube was
assessed
A solar-powered R1234ze/CO2 cascade refrigeration system was studied
Low-GWP refrigerants R600a, R1234ze(Z), and R1233zd(E) were investi-
gated as alternatives to traditional low-pressure HFC refrigerants
R513a (XP10) (56% R1234yf (C3H2F4) and 44% R134a (CH2FCF3)) has
similar thermophysical characteristics to R134a, but only half of its GWP
R1233zd(E) is a promising alternative refrigerant with excellent environmen- R1233zd(E) has a faster condensation rate than the other three investigated
tal-friendly performance
A performance comparison was conducted of the dedicated mechanically
subcooled cycle (DSC), overall cycle (OC), subcooler cycle (SC), and sim-
ple VCR cycle using HFO-R1234ze, R1234yf, and HFC-R134a
and CuO
Refrigerants R513A and R1234yf were investigated as replacements for
R134a
Potential refrigerants were tested as replacements for R-22 and R-410A
Key results
Total exergy destruction of R1234yf was reduced by 15% compared to that of
R134a. R1234ze(E) has the highest energetic and exergetic performance of
the investigated refrigerants
Some refrigerant mixtures could replace pure hydrocarbons in small systems,
thereby providing a slight increase in COP
R1234ze(E) can be used as an alternative to R22 in small-capacity air-condi-
tioners
Among the registered mixtures, R446A, R447A, R447B, R452B, R454B, and
R459A appear in previous research as alternatives to pure refrigerant R32 to
replace R410A
Refrigerants ­N2O and C ­ O2 in TSTCVT show that ­N2O exhibits higher cooling
COP
Solar irradiance to cooling load was proposed as a criterion at different loca-
tions
R600a, R1234ze(Z), and R1233zd(E) are valuable long-term low-GWP sub-
stitutes for traditional low-pressure HFC refrigerants, both in HP and ORC
applications
R513a demonstrates reduced capacity by up to 12% and efficiency (up to 9%,
with COP and 14% with exergy efficiency)
HFOs. R1234ze(E), R1243zf, and R1234yf are helpful for improving refrig-
Author's personal copy
eration efficiency
HFO-R1234ze competes with HFC-R134a and supersedes R1234yf. It is a
good alternative to R134a and is environmentally friendly
tion
Refrigerants R513A and R1234yf have lower frictional pressure than R134a
R-32 has the highest cooling capacity and COP at various ambient tempera-
tures
International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

zones (a subcooling zone, two-phase zone, and superheating

zone), and the evaporator contains two zones (a two-phase
zone and a superheating zone) [215]. A more detailed ɛ-
NTU method for simulating air-to-refrigerant fin-and-tube
heat exchangers can be used in more detailed studies [216].
A highly detailed ɛ-NTU method shows good comparative
results with the experimental values.

Condenser

A condenser can be modelled based on the heat transfer in

the air side of the condenser [134]:
( )
Q̇ c = Uc Ac Ta − Tc (8)
It can also be modelled with two energy balances—one of
which uses the secondary fluid heat flow rate [211]:
( ) ( )
ṁ rc hri,c − hro,c = ṁ ac Cpa Tao,c − Tai,c (9)
As the condensers and evaporators dominate the dynamic
operation of the VRF HVAC system, the modelling of the
evaporators and condensers is based on moving boundary
models that introduce separate control volumes (two phase
and single phase) in lieu of the most common finite volume
approach [217, 218].
Expansion valve
Fig. 5  Diagram coupling of boundary parameters among components
[220]
Mass flow
Modelling based on a library of data—such as data from
REFROP and ASHRAE Handbook—can be used to deter-
mine the mass of the refrigerant based on several parameters
as shown below [211, 219]:
ṁ r = 𝜂V 𝜌1 VG N (13)
where the compressor volumetric efficiency, ηV, has been
expressed as a function of the operating pressures and com-
pressor speed, N.

The EEV can be modelled as below [134]: System model and algorithm
√( )
PCon − PEvap The model of the different components should be combined
mEV = AEV 𝜉 (10)
VC according to the relationships among components’ param-
eters [220]. In addition, the model should include outside
This represents the operation of the EEV. Its opening and parameters that affect the operation of the system for which
changing are based on the control and operation of the whole the occupants are normally responsible (i.e., the control,
system. thermal loads, and fan speed) [221]. Figure 5 shows a sam-
Other correlations for the EEV based on the performance ple system model in which a boundary parameter is coupled
data from the manufacturer can also be calculated as below among components to yield a simple four-component vapor
[101]: compression refrigeration system that is applicable for mod-
√ elling a VRF HVAC system.
5470CD A Pi − Po The modelling and simulation of the VRF HVAC sys-
ṁ = (11)
3600 tem are dynamic, as the compressor speed changes. Hence,
The model of variable area orifice, called EEV, can be modelling should be based on a dynamic model. As such,
expressed based on subcooling and pressure differences time-dependent partial differential equations involving mass,
through the orifice tube as below [101]: energy, and momentum balances for each control volume are

� �
⎧ 1 � �1
⎪ 𝜋D 0.68683 − 0.019337ΔPe,i + 0.006ΔT 2𝜌gΔPe,i 2 ∕4, ΔT ≤ 40◦ F
2 2

ṁ = ⎨ (12)
⎪ � �1
⎩ 𝜋D2 (0.9175 − 0.006ΔT) P − Psat 2 ∕4, ΔT > 40◦ F

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Figure 8 shows the flowchart for the developed model.

It shows the looping for the calculation of different param-
eters of the component’s models. It also shows the differ-
ent parameters and the conditions that are to be used in the
simulation.

System performance

Based on the first law of thermodynamics, which is based

on energy flow reversibility, COP is used to measure the
performance of a refrigeration cycle [222]:

Q̇ E
COP = (14)
Ẇ C

Based on the second law of thermodynamics, which is

based on energy flow irreversibility, the combined applica-
Fig. 6  Simplified flowchart showing the input parameters and tion of the first law and the second law derives the concept
expected output data based on the theoretical considerations of the
model and the data of the working fluid [214] of exergy, which is expressed as below [223, 224]:
[ ( )]
∑ ∑ T ∑ ( )
Ẇ + Q̇ 1 − o + ̇ x + Ė xDest = 0
me
T
needed [219]. Dynamic modelling that reflects the dynamic In/Out In/Out In/Out
(15)
characteristics of a system is more accurate than other forms
of dynamic modelling but is too complicated for simulations This equation can be applied to calculate the exergy
[220]. Figure 6 shows a sample of the simple flowchart for destruction of a VRF HVAC system. Using this concept,
a model and provides the input parameters, theoretical esti- the combined first law and second law efficiency can be
mates, and thermodynamic properties of the working fluids expressed as exergetic efficiency as shown below [223,
used to produce the required data [214]. 224]:
Another modelling technique is based on the architecture/ ∑ ̇ ∑
Exergy of Product Ė xP ExD + Ė xL
structure of the fuzzy logic controller (Fig. 7). Fuzzy logic 𝜂Ex = = =1−
attempts to simplify the specifications of a system’s opera- Exergy of Fuel Ė x F
Ė x F

tion using linguistic terms and simple symbolic rules. This
leads to a simpler mathematical model, which means the
control value can be computed relatively fast [134]. This
control system is applicable for simplified VRF HVAC sys-
tem models, as they have relatively few parameters.
(16)
When applying first law (energy) and the combined first
law and second law (exergy) analyses to a VRF HVAC
system, one must understand the comprehensive analysis
of the system’s performance [225]. Exergy analysis can be

Fig. 7  The architecture/structure of the fuzzy systems intended for controlling action in the proposed system’s controller [134]

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Built environment

Detached houses/high‑rise residential buildings

The application of VRF HVAC systems in family-size

houses is now common in developed countries, as VRF
HVAC systems for small thermal loads are now available,
including window-type systems that utilize a variable speed
compressor with an EEV [228]. In hot and humid countries,
the improper application of air-conditioning systems has
caused a buildup of indoor pollutants due to the improper
ventilation and maintenance of air-conditioning systems
[229]. Split-type systems, which separate the outdoor unit
(compressor and outdoor heat exchanger) from the indoor
unit (expansion valve and indoor heat exchanger), can be
used for the rooms of houses [230]. To meet larger thermal
loading requirements, multi-split VRF HVAC systems can
be installed [231].
VRF HVAC systems are commonly installed in high-rise
residential buildings with multiple units for many families
in countries where land and space are limited, especially in
large urban areas [232, 233]. Normally, window-type and
split-type VRF HVAC systems are used in such cases. The
advantage of the split-type system over the window-type
system is the location of the outdoor unit. It can be properly
positioned depending on the amount of open space available
and can be connected to indoor units that have no access
to an outdoor environment. It shows that the VRF HVAC
system can reduce energy consumption [231]. However, in
Fig. 8  Detailed flowchart showing the input parameters and the
expected output data [101]
high-rise buildings, the installation of different outdoor units
should be considered, as it affects the performance of the
systems installed on upper floors [39]. Figure 9 illustrates
the effect of thermal buoyancy of the air and the environ-
used to identify which system components have high irre-
ment when VRF HVAC systems are installed in high-rise
versibility [226]. Carnot efficiency and the first and second
residential buildings.
laws of thermodynamics can also be used to evaluate the
performance of a system [227].
Office and commercial buildings

One of the most widespread applications of VRF HVAC sys-

Variable refrigerant flow heating,
tems is in office buildings that contain many rooms that are
ventilating, and air‑conditioning system
used for different purposes at different times [173]. These
applications
VRF HVAC systems can provide desired indoor thermal
conditions in an energy-efficient manner [235–237]. For
Maintaining a thermally comfortable and high-quality built
large office buildings with different load requirements, a
environment is energy intensive, as most of the time, people
VRF HVAC system can heat and cool different spaces at
stay indoors—in houses, offices, retail stores, grocery stores,
the same time [238].
financial institutions, gyms, and transportation service build-
Another important aspect of VRF HVAC systems in com-
ings. Hence, the application of energy-efficient and dynami-
mercial buildings is that the indoor environments of multiple
cally sensitive HVAC systems that can proactively respond
rooms and spaces can be controlled efficiently simultane-
to indoor and outdoor changes is essential to maintaining the
ously [239]. Commercial buildings that house many types
needed indoor environment while meeting energy efficiency
of establishments require VRF HVAC systems that are ver-
requirements.
satile, efficient, and economical under different modes of

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Fig. 9  The effect of thermal
buoyancy of the air and the
environment of the installed
VRF HVAC systems in high-
rise buildings [234]
operation, temperature settings, and indoor thermal and air
quality requirements. VRF HVAC systems have been shown
to be more economical than other HVAC systems [240].
Factory/industrial buildings
The application of VRF HVAC systems in manufacturing
plants is very important, as these systems can provide
the indoor environmental conditions needed for all dif-
ferent locations within the manufacturing plant, includ-
ing equipment areas, processing areas, assembly areas,
control areas, and office areas [241–243] found differ-
ent indoor pollutants in different areas of a steel rolling
plant. For factories that have both heating and cooling
requirements, the application of a VRF HVAC system
is economical and efficient since heat recovery opera-
tions are possible [244]. Al-Awadi et al. [14] assessed the
air quality inside a printing press by considering office,
administration, editing, printing, and publication sections,
along with the HVAC system performance corresponding
to each of these sections.
In industrial processing plants, an HVAC system needs
to provide heating and cooling to different locations at the
same time [245, 246]. In an industrial plant in which very
sensitive equipment and instrumentations are installed, a
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International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
VRF HVAC system that can precisely maintain desired
temperatures can be applied to avoid damage to equipment
and devices. Also, the installation of a VRF HVAC system
with a heat recovery option makes the application of the
system economical, energy efficient, and practical [244].
Indoor thermal comfort and air quality
Thermal control
The precise and steady control of indoor thermal condi-
tions during changing outdoor conditions with dynamic
thermal loading is one of the fundamental features of a
VRF HVAC system [247]. The control of the VRF HVAC
system’s major components makes the temperature of the
indoor environment stable [29, 134]. In addition, when
applying such a system to multiple rooms or applications,
the independent control mechanism for different indoor
units of the VRF HVAC system enables each of the indoor
units to control its respective temperature [236]. Hence,
for big buildings that have many different rooms and are
used for many different functions, a VRF HVAC system
is a practical and economical option for controlling the
indoor thermal environment. Furthermore, the application
of an intelligent control strategy can improve the indoor
 Author's personal copy
International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering
comfort of a building while minimizing energy consump-
tion [248].
The control of indoor moisture levels is important
because moisture can affect the health of a building’s
occupants due to the growth of mold, bacteria, and other
airborne organisms [6, 249]. High levels of indoor mois-
ture damage the indoor finishing of buildings as moisture
condensation increases [250]. Similarly, in manufactur-
ing plants, moisture stability is important to the quality of
some production processes. Specifically, this is the case in
many food production and electronic component opera-
tions, among others [251]. VRF HVAC systems reduce the
moisture level of the air that bypasses the air below its dew
point temperature. As such, the air moisture content can be
controlled in a very short time, particularly when there is a
severe fluctuation of moisture inside the built environment
due to moisture generation. Also, the air moisture level
must be controlled when a large percentage of outdoor air
is introduced into the building. Lowering the air tempera-
ture below its dew point is the quickest way to reduce air
moisture. The application of VRF HVAC systems in hot
and humid climates has been shown to reduce air moisture
by up to 32% [252].
Biological control
The maintenance of IAQ is very important for avoiding the
contamination and spread of viruses and bacteria in indoor
environments [15]. Most of the air that passes through an air
handling system is recirculated air, with some outdoor air
as per regulations [253]. Certain ventilation heat recovery
devices can be used to minimize the energy requirements
of ventilation systems [254]. Alternatively, passive ventila-
tion systems can be used to minimize energy requirements
[255]. It is imperative that bacteria and viruses in the air are
controlled using specialized filters and devices before the
air passes into the indoor heat exchanger [256]. VRF HVAC
systems with add-on devices that eliminate airborne bacteria
can serve this purpose [257].
The spread of viruses inside the indoor environment is
very dangerous for buildings with different purposes, such
as hospitals and laboratories [258]. The literature reports
that increases in infectious risk can be caused by HVAC
systems contaminated by airborne pathogens [256]. Indoor
air can contain pathogenic and non-pathogenic live or dead
bacteria, fungi, viruses, allergens, endotoxins, pollen, plant
fibers, etc. Therefore, patients, staff, and doctors in hospitals
are exposed to different airborne bacteria, which may lead to
a variety of infections, including respiratory diseases [259].
Research shows that the indoor air in hospitals contains a
mixture of chemical, physical, and microbiological com-
pounds [15]. Insufficient ventilation increases the risk of
disease transmission in indoor environments, and significant
questions remain regarding ventilation requirements in terms
of airborne infection control. Therefore, the American Soci-
ety of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engi-
neers (ASHRAE) proposes a high research priority for the
study of indoor flow regimes, room pressurization, and filtra-
tion for hospitals and laboratories where infectious disease
agents are handled [260].
Using a VRF HVAC system was useful under different
conditions [154, 252]. VRF HVAC systems can provide
compartmentalized processed air to avoid contamination in
different parts of buildings while minimizing energy con-
sumption [261]. With add-on devices that can be used to
monitor and eliminate airborne viruses, such as ZnO- and
­TiO2-based materials, the application of VRF HVAC sys-
tems can maintain a healthy IAQ [262].
Chemical control
VOCs are often present in indoor environments due to the fin-
ishing of buildings and the furniture and devices inside [263,
264]. VOCs must be controlled appropriately for an accept-
able IAQ to be reached. This can be done by breaking up the
VOC compounds [265, 266], filtering the VOC compounds
out of the air [267], or diluting the concentration of VOCs by
introducing fresh air into the indoor environment (ventilation)
[268, 269]. Hence, VRF HVAC systems equipped with chemi-
cal filtering and processing devices can utilize the recirculated
indoor air in addition to the fresh outdoor air that is introduced
to the indoor environment [257]. The clean air heat pump
concept could be incorporated into VRF HVAC systems to
increase IAQ and lower energy consumption [270]. Also, the
application of photocatalytic oxidation cleaning technology
can improve air quality in indoor environments [271, 272].
A well-designed VRF HVAC system coupled with chemi-
cal processing devices to control the chemical contents of air
can provide thermal comfort while maintaining a healthy air
quality level [273]. The air from different industrial and man-
ufacturing processes, once purified [274], can pass through
indoor units’ heat exchangers again to be either cooled or
heated before being reintroduced into the indoor environment
[275]. Hence, VRF HVAC systems are essential both for pro-
viding a comfortable indoor environment and meeting energy
efficiency requirements [276]. In addition, the application of
different strategies and proper control systems can maintain
the desired indoor environment [43, 277, 278].
Discussion
System
The VRF HVAC system has four major components—a
variable speed compressor, evaporator, condenser, and EEV.
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This single loop system is typical in window-type and split-
type systems. Complex systems have more than one com-
pressor, more than one expansion valve, and more than one
indoor unit. These systems are installed in large buildings,
such as large office buildings.
With the rising demand for better thermal comfort and
air quality [45], different components have been added to
systems, such as ventilation devices with heat exchangers
(total or sensible) [42, 43] and air purifiers to control the
air’s chemical and biological contents. Moreover, in line
with increasing concerns regarding the efficiency of HVACs,
latent and sensible energy can be controlled separately by
using sorbent materials [210, 279].
Applications
The applications of VRF HVAC systems are wide, covering
temperate climates to hot and humid climates. The applica-
tion of VRF HVAC systems in very cold climates is very
challenging due to the defrosting operation of the system
(i.e., the melting of ice accumulated in the outdoor units).
This causes the operation of the system to operate in a heat-
ing-defrosting mode [121].
Another challenge facing VRF HVAC system operation in
hot and humid climates is that, based on the simple Carnot
cycle, the performance of the heat pump and refrigeration
device depends on the temperature of the heat sink and heat
source. Hence, the performance of the system is affected
when the boundary conditions change [122, 234, 280].
Testing and standards
VRF HVAC systems are widely applied because of their
energy-efficient, demand-based operation and versatility
in different applications. With this, different countries are
developing their own testing and performance standards
(Table 3). However, most of the countries’ standards are
based on those given by the ISO [288, 294].

Table 3  Different testing and evaluation standards applicable to and specified for VRF HVAC systems
References Main description Organization and country

AHRI Standard 1230 [281]
ANSI/AHRI Standard 210/240 [282] Performance rating of unitary air-conditioning and
ASHRAE 116-2010 [283]
AS/NZS 3823 [284]
CSN EN 14825 [285]
GB21455-203 [286]
ISO 5151 [287]
ISO 16358 [288]
JIS C 9612:2013 [289]
JIS B 8615-1:2013 [290]
JIS B 8616:2015 [291]
PNS 396-1:1995 [292]
PNS/ISO16358-1:2014 [293]
Performance rating of variable refrigerant flow American Heating and Refrigerating Institute, USA
(VRF) multi-split air-conditioning and heat pump
equipment
American Heating and Refrigerating Institute, USA
air-source heat pump equipment
Methods of testing for rating the seasonal effi- American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-
ciency of unitary air conditioners and heat pumps conditioning Engineers, USA
Performance of electrical appliances; air condition- Australia and New Zealand Standards, Australia and
ers and heat pumps New Zealand
Air conditioners, liquid chilling packages, and British Standard Institution, UK
heat pumps with electrically driven compressors
intended for space heating and cooling; testing
and rating at part load conditions and the calcula-
tion of seasonal performance
Variable speed RAC efficiency standards China National Institute of Standardization, China
Non-ducted air conditioners and heat pumps; test- International Organization for Standardization,
ing and rating for performance Switzerland
Air-cooled air conditioners and air-to-air heat International Organization for Standardization,
pumps; testing and calculating methods for Switzerland
seasonal performance factors; Part 1: cooling
seasonal performance factor
Room air conditioners Japanese Standard Organization, Japan
Non-ducted air conditioners and heat pumps; test- Japanese Standard Organization, Japan
ing and rating for performance
Package air conditioners Japanese Standard Organization, Japan
Household appliances; EER and labelling require- Bureau of Product Standards, Philippines
ments, Part 1
Air-cooled air conditioners and air-to-air heat Bureau of Product Standards, Philippines
pumps; testing and calculating methods for
seasonal performance factors; Part 1: cooling
seasonal performance factor

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The development of national testing and evaluation stand-
ards is important since different countries require different
operational modes based on people’s lifestyles, environmen-
tal conditions (indoor and outdoor), and building codes,
energy codes, fire codes, etc. However, national testing and
performance standards should comply with international
standards for harmonization and ease of understanding when
intermobility is a concern. Hence, performance evaluation
methods based on international standards need to be devel-
oped for comparative studies and analysis to be carried out.
Conclusions
This review paper discusses recent developments and trends
in the development and application of VRF HVAC systems.
The popularity and application of VRF HVAC systems are
increasing in many countries, as they can be used to meet
indoor thermal and air quality requirements in a highly
energy-efficient manner due to their capability to be adjusted
based on indoor environmental requirements and heat recov-
ery options.
The following noteworthy conclusions can be drawn from
the present review of the advancements and applications of
VRF HVAC systems:
1. The application of an intelligent control strategy can
improve the indoor thermal comfort of a building while
minimizing energy consumption.
2. A system with biological and chemical filtering and
processing devices can utilize recirculated indoor air in
addition to the fresh outdoor air that is introduced into
the indoor environment.
3. Enhancing the heat transfer coefficient in the condenser
and evaporator (e.g., by installing a twisted strip inside
the condenser tube, utilizing porous surfaces to enhance
boiling heat transfer, and including microfin tubes and a
microchannel evaporator) can increase the performance
and efficiency of a system.
4. The precise control of the EEV in coordination with the
compressor speed can reduce power consumption.
5. Using a subcooler to further cool the refrigerant below
the saturation temperature drastically improves the per-
formance of a VAR HVAC system.
VRF HVAC systems rely on their capability to adjust
their operation in the most energy-efficient manner based
on the indoor requirements. However, different designs have
different advantages and disadvantages, depending on their
purpose. Therefore, the design and development of systems
based on how the systems work in different real-world sce-
narios (which differ from the performance evaluation stand-
ards) would be another important area for researchers and
design engineers to pursue. The development and validation
of an accurate model for simulation purposes could provide
significant contributions to the advancement of VRF HVAC
systems.
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