When approaching a new air conditioning project, it is common for a question to arise: better a VRF system or a water-based system? ⚖️Both have advantages and limitations, and although many technical studies have been published on the subject, most tend to favor one or the other without offering an overall view.
In this post we want to provide an objective and neutral reflection to help you make the best decision according to the needs of each case.
What is a VRF system?
VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems use refrigerant gas directly as an exchange fluid to air-condition spaces. They are characterized by their high energy efficiency and its ability to adapt quickly to changes in thermal load. The indoor units are connected to an outdoor unit, which adjusts in real time the amount of refrigerant required thanks to an advanced control system.
📈Among its advantages, it stands out its versatilityespecially in projects where there are constant temperature variations or low thermal inertia. In addition, current models have been significantly improved with features such as:
- Heat recovery for DHW.
- Compatibility with BMS systems.
- Hybrid systems using water as secondary coolant.
- Continuous defrosting (key in cold and humid climates).
- Compact outdoor units for indoor installation.
For all these reasons, VRF systems are ideal for medium-sized projects, especially in the residential and tertiary sectors.
What about water-based air conditioning systems? 💧
In these systems, the refrigerant gas exchanges heat with a water circuitwhich acts as a secondary fluid and distributes the air conditioning through units such as fan coils or radiant systems. They are particularly suitable when a high strict temperature and humidity controlsuch as in hospitals, museums or laboratories.
The technologies applied have improved greatly in recent years, incorporating:
- Digital Scroll or magnetic levitation compressors.
- Total and partial recovery systems for DHW.
- Equipment with free-cooling for temperate climates.
- Use of low GWP refrigerants.
This type of system is highly recommended for large installations, spaces with high thermal inertia or applications requiring high thermal accuracy.
Which one to choose? ⚖️
There is no universal solution. The choice will depend on factors such as intended use, building size, level of control required, expected energy consumption or ease of maintenance.
Ultimately, it is a matter of analyzing each case individually, understanding the needs of the project and assessing which system best meets them. Both approaches are valid and, thanks to technological advances, today offer effective and sustainable solutions.
AMD also prepares its comeback with the Instinct MI308
✅The good news is not only for NVIDIA. AMD also preparing to ship its Instinct MI308 AI accelerator to Chinapending final approval. This approval could be key for the company, which has so far not played a prominent role in the Chinese AI market..
Since this relaxation was announced, AMD shares are up 7%.The reopening of the business represents an enormous opportunity.
In the meantime, Huawei and other local manufacturerswhich had gained prominence during the veto, could see how this decision forces them to rebalance forces in the market.