VRV air conditioning systems are basically large multi-split systems where a number of indoor units are connected to the outdoor unit. These VRV air conditioning systems are generally used for larger applications where the alternative might be a central chilled water system or central ducted system. Against these other types of system VRV air conditioning would generally be comparable in capital cost but would quicker to install and more energy efficient to run.

The main advantages of using VRV air conditioning Systems are as follows:-

• As with split systems a wide variety of indoor unit types including floor mounted, high wall, under ceiling, ceiling recessed (cassette) and concealed ducted type are available.
• Indoor units and outdoor unit can be up to 100m apart.
• Inverter driven compressors and sophisticated controls give increased energy efficiency.
• Large open plan areas and small rooms can all be served from a single system with individual control in each room.
• Systems can be cooling only, heating + cooling or heat recovery. Heat recovery systems can transfer heat from one part of a building to another (such as from South to North sides) and so dramatically reduce energy consumption, particularly during Spring and Autumn.
• Using a modular arrangement in excess of 1000 indoor units can be installed.
• Units can be controlled either individually, in groups, centrally or in any combination required.