This article is sponsored by Trane®. In this Voices interview, Consulting Specifying Engineer spoke with Laura Michel, Ductless Portfolio Leader at Trane, about current trends in VRF and ductless HVAC systems, common misconceptions about their use, and how innovative solutions and updated standards are guiding the next phase of VRF.
Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Consulting Specifying Engineer: Can you start by telling us about the joint venture between Trane and Mitsubishi Electric and how it has impacted the VRF and Ductless HVAC market?
Laura Michel: Trane and Mitsubishi Electric formed a joint venture in 2018, and I can offer some perspective from the Trane side. One of the things that attracted us to Mitsubishi Electric was their well-established reputation for quality and reliability.
In my previous role in sales, I worked closely with customers who were purchasing and installing VRF and ductless products. Now, in my current role in product management, I continue to hear from customers about how dependable these systems are. That emphasis on quality is something both our companies are proud of. Along with that, Trane’s bring complementary systems expertise and HVAC product portfolio to the table.
VRF systems, for instance, can require additional ventilation equipment, and our dedicated outside air systems integrate seamlessly with VRF systems. On more complex projects, building automation becomes crucial, and Trane’s controls help meet those sophisticated needs.
Additionally, Trane also has a robust footprint of sales offices nationwide with committed teams supporting VRF and ductless products. This investment is part of our commitment to deliver quality customer experiences. Ultimately our shared value around quality and reliability, made this partnership a natural fit.
Since the joint venture launched in 2018, we’ve seen significant growth in VRF. While VRF was already gaining momentum before the joint venture, our combined efforts have accelerated VRF in a tangible way.
VRF has been around for a while but may still be considered a newer system compared to other technologies in the U.S. What misconceptions still exist around VRF and ductless technologies, and how do you address them with engineers and building owners?
I’ve been in the HVAC industry for 18 years, with 16 of those years at the Chicago Trane sales office. I remember the skepticism we felt the first time VRF technology was introduced. The advertised efficiencies and the impressive line lengths sounded too good to be true.
In Chicago, we experience very cold winters often designing to −10°F for a design day. Prior to VRF technology, many heat pumps struggled to perform effectively below 40°F ambient temperature. These misconceptions were common in the early days of VRF technology’s introduction in the United States, even though it was already widely used in Asia and Europe. The U.S. HVAC market, particularly in HVAC technology, often lags behind the Europe in adopting new innovations.
Over time many of those misconceptions have been dispelled. Some people may still be hesitant or have not witnessed the technology’s success, but VRF certainly performs reliably in cold climates. We frequently use it in Chicago as the sole source of heat for buildings. Efficiencies are tested and certified, proving their validity.
More recent misconceptions typically relate to the A2L refrigerant transition. Some may speculate that VRF is going away, or that the new requirements under ASHRAE Standard 15 are more challenging than they are. We spend considerable effort educating the marketplace and our customers to dispel these myths.
How have VRF and ductless systems evolved in recent years, and what innovations are driving VRF today?
Many HVAC technologies, including VRF, originate in Europe and are adopted later in the United States market later. Several innovative technologies use the same compressors we use in VRF for different applications.
We’re seeing the same high efficiency heat pump technology, specifically from Trane / Mitsubishi Electric applied to several new products such as heat pump technology that can now handle hot water needs — whether for domestic hot water or space heating applications. We’re also exploring precision cooling applications. Where we once used cooling-only split systems for very small loads, like IT closets, we’re now deploying VRF for advanced cooling in smaller data centers.
We’ve introduced technology with R-410A refrigerant and will expand offerings with new refrigerants moving forward. Additionally, our HVRF systems have been proven in Europe, and we’re optimistic about their growing use in the U.S.
Can you explain what HVRF systems are and how they differ from traditional VRF systems?
Traditional VRF systems use refrigerant as the heat transfer medium, to transfer heat from the outdoor to indoor units. With HVRF systems, you essentially have hybrid use of both refrigerant and water. Instead of running refrigerant to the indoor units, which are generally in occupied spaces, we now run water to those units.
HVRF employs a hybrid branch controller that facilitates the heat exchange between refrigerant and water. For those concerned about ASHRAE Standard 15 requirements for A2L refrigerants HVRF is a compelling option. This solution is particularly attractive because it eliminates refrigerant in occupied spaces.
HVRF makes it easier to comply with refrigerant charge limitations in smaller spaces, institutional occupancies with stricter guidelines or other sensitive environments. It offers the benefits of VRF without having refrigerant in the occupied spaces.
How are the regulatory landscape and refrigerant changes shaping the future of VRF and ductless products?
Europe has set the precedent, using A2L refrigerants for quite some time. That experience gives us confidence in their application here in the United States.
We’ve already converted our mini-split technology in the U.S. to A2L refrigerants. Market growth indicates positive response to these refrigerants in occupied spaces, and we’re seeing positive market growth year-over-year growth – despite a challenging economic climate.
The shift to new refrigerants isn’t deterring demand. For customers who are still reluctant to have refrigerant in occupied spaces, HVRF is a great alternative that maintains systems efficiencies without compromise.
How does Trane support its customers in choosing the right VRF and ductless HVAC systems?
We’ve heavily invested in supporting customers at every stage. Our sales offices feature dedicated ductless and VRF specialists — both before and after installation.
From the initial project evaluation, our ductless sales specialists work together with engineers or owners to confirm if the solution is the right fit for the application and meets compliance with the updated codes and standards.
Our ductless technical specialists provide contractors training and certifications, troubleshooting assistance, and in-person support for proper installation. That human touch is a key differentiator for Trane. Our comprehensive service departments and parts stores nationwide stand behind our VRF and ductless products, so customers have reliable support when they need it.
If you could leave engineers and building owners with one key takeaway about VRF and ductless systems, what would it be?
VRF is here to stay for the long term. Its growing demand in the United States is driven by proven performance and flexibility, including successful transitions to new refrigerant in markets around the world. Change is always challenging, especially with newer system designs but the future for VRF is bright. Trane is committed to providing strong support to help customers navigate these innovative solutions with confidence.
For more information, visit trane.com/ductless.
