AIR CONDITIONING


VRF systems in hotels: Powerful ROI potential


David Dunn, sales director North Europe for Carrier RLC EMEA, explores the benefi ts hotels can experience by upgrading to Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems and highlights how making the leap can deliver both short- and long-term return on investment (ROI).


T


he hotel industry is at a crossroads in a world increasingly conscious of energy footprints and bottom lines. Familiar, traditional heating and cooling systems often struggle to deliver the dual promise of effi ciency and guest satisfaction. VRF technology, however, off ers outstanding potential but is frequently dismissed due to higher initial upfront costs. The issue of focusing on capital expenditure (CAPEX)


obscures a more nuanced reality. While the initial investment in VRF systems can be higher than legacy options, the short- term ROI is usually immediate, thanks to reduced energy use. Nor is the long-term ROI as prolonged as it might appear, typically unfolding over three to seven years. This ROI is driven by a potent combination of optimised energy performance, improved guest experience, and enhanced comfort – and accelerated by potential government incentives.


False economy It’s indisputable that VRF systems often have a steeper


upfront price tag. This barrier can deter hotel decision- makers, leading them to cling to less effi cient, seemingly more budget-friendly alternatives. Yet, this approach overlooks the long-term operational savings (OPEX) that VRF technology unlocks. In other words, it’s a false economy.


The key to understanding VRF cost benefi ts and their impact on guest comfort lies in their core technology. Unlike centralised systems that indiscriminately heat or cool entire buildings regardless of occupancy, VRF systems use variable refrigerant fl ow. This allows precise adaptation to changing conditions – whether a room’s temperature fl uctuates or a whole fl oor empties. By consistently providing the exact amount of heating or cooling needed, VRF systems minimise energy waste signifi cantly and ensure each space stays comfortable. Consequently, properly optimised VRF systems can lead to average energy cost reductions of ~20-30% or more (vs. variable air volume (VAV) systems). Poor VRF installation is the bane of good VRF performance.


That’s why thorough optimisation is crucial to reaping the signifi cant benefi ts of a VRF system. This involves two key considerations: System Design: Proper VRF system design, tailored to the hotel’s specifi c layout and usage patterns, maximises effi ciency from the outset. This includes load calculations, equipment sizing, piping layout, and zoning choices. These decisions maximise effi ciency and ensure no capital is wasted on a system that’s too big for the space. Advanced Controls: Intelligent VRF system controls enable granular temperature adjustments, scheduling, and automated setback features. These controls ensure the hotel delivers the desired comfort level while minimising energy waste during unoccupied periods. They can even synchronise with room check-in and booking systems, meaning those rooms can be set to be cooled or heated automatically when required. Correctly optimised, VRF systems often have knock-on


remunerative eff ects. Guest experience is the lifeblood of the hospitality industry. In hotels, where HVAC use duration was among the highest of all building types, VRF systems excel by providing unparalleled levels of energy-effi cient individual comfort. Traditional centralised systems often leave guests battling too-hot or too- cold rooms, leading to dissatisfaction and potentially harmful reviews. With VRF, each guest enjoys precise control over their environment. This allows them to tailor the temperature to their liking, signifi cantly enhancing their comfort and stay. These benefi ts don’t stop at the guest room door. VRF optimisation improves common areas, ensuring lobbies,


22 September 2024 • www.acr-news.com Download the ACR News app today


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