Comprehensive guide to understanding HVAC systems, components, and advanced technologies including VAV, VRV, VRU, and HRU systems
Understanding the fundamental building blocks of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
The heart of the system that pressurizes refrigerant, enabling heat transfer. Increases refrigerant temperature and pressure, circulating it through the system for cooling or heating.
Releases heat from refrigerant to outside air. Located outdoors, it converts high-pressure gas into liquid by dissipating heat through coils and fans.
Absorbs heat from indoor air. Located inside, refrigerant evaporates here, drawing heat from the space and providing cooling effect to the building.
Regulates refrigerant flow and reduces pressure. Controls the amount of refrigerant entering the evaporator, enabling proper cooling capacity and system efficiency.
Circulates conditioned air throughout the building. Contains blower, filter, and heating/cooling elements. Distributes air through ductwork to maintain comfort.
The control center that monitors and regulates temperature. Sends signals to the HVAC system to maintain desired comfort levels and optimize energy usage.
Network of passages that deliver conditioned air. Properly designed and sealed ducts ensure efficient air distribution and minimize energy loss throughout the system.
Removes dust, pollen, and contaminants from air. Essential for indoor air quality and system protection. Regular replacement maintains efficiency and extends equipment life.
Copper tubes connecting indoor and outdoor units. Transport refrigerant between components, allowing heat exchange cycle to occur and maintain system operation.
Understanding advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technologies for commercial and large-scale applications
Variable Air Volume
VAV systems control the amount of conditioned air delivered to different zones based on heating or cooling demand. Instead of constant airflow, these systems adjust air volume to maintain comfort while maximizing energy efficiency.
Pro Tip: VAV systems are ideal for buildings with varying occupancy and diverse thermal loads across different zones.
Variable Refrigerant Volume/Flow
VRV (Daikin trademark) or VRF systems use refrigerant as the cooling and heating medium, with precise control of refrigerant flow to multiple indoor units. This technology provides simultaneous heating and cooling to different zones.
Pro Tip: VRV/VRF systems excel in buildings requiring flexible zoning and minimal ductwork installation.
Ventilation Recovery Unit
VRU systems recover energy from exhaust air to pre-condition incoming fresh air. This process significantly reduces the energy needed to heat or cool ventilation air, improving overall system efficiency and indoor air quality.
Pro Tip: VRU systems are essential for meeting modern ventilation codes while maintaining energy efficiency.
Heat Recovery Unit
HRU systems specifically focus on thermal energy recovery, transferring heat between exhaust and supply air streams without mixing them. These units maintain optimal indoor temperatures while ensuring fresh air circulation and reducing HVAC loads.
Pro Tip: HRU systems are perfect for climates with extreme temperatures where ventilation loads are significant.
Understanding the differences between advanced HVAC systems to select the right solution for your project
| Feature | VAV | VRV/VRF | VRU | HRU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Controls air volume to zones | Controls refrigerant flow | Recovers ventilation energy | Recovers heat energy |
| Medium Used | Conditioned air | Refrigerant | Fresh/exhaust air | Air-to-air heat exchange |
| Energy Efficiency | ||||
| Installation Cost | Moderate | High | Moderate-High | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Regular | Moderate | Regular filter changes | Regular cleaning |
| Best Application | Large commercial buildings | Hotels, multi-tenant | High ventilation needs | Extreme climates |
| Space Requirements | Ductwork needed | Minimal ductwork | Central unit required | Central unit required |
| Zone Control | Excellent | Superior | N/A | N/A |
| Simultaneous Heat/Cool | No | Yes | N/A | N/A |
Best for large buildings with varying loads and occupancy patterns
Ideal for flexible zoning with minimal ductwork and maximum efficiency
Perfect for buildings requiring high fresh air ventilation with energy recovery
Excellent for climates with extreme temperatures needing heat recovery
Whether you need HVAC installation, repair, or consultation on advanced systems, Kirkland Handyman Co. has the expertise to help
From routine maintenance to complex system installations, our certified technicians are trained on all major HVAC systems including VAV, VRV, VRU, and HRU technologies. We serve Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, and surrounding Eastside communities.