HVAC Systems

Terms

VRF — Variable Refrigerant Flow

• Function: Heating and cooling (temperature control)
• Type: HVAC (mechanical)
• Uses refrigerant as the medium; a single outdoor unit serves multiple indoor units.
• Each indoor unit is individually controllable — can heat and cool different rooms simultaneously.
• Very efficient for multi-unit buildings (apartments, offices).

HRV — Heat Recovery Ventilator

• Function: Fresh air exchange + heat recovery
• Type: Ventilation
• Brings in outdoor fresh air while exhausting stale indoor air.
• Transfers heat only (not humidity) from outgoing to incoming air.
• Best for cold/dry climates (e.g., Calgary).

ERV — Energy Recovery Ventilator

• Function: Fresh air exchange + heat and humidity recovery
• Type: Ventilation
• Similar to HRV but also transfers moisture between air streams.
• Balances indoor humidity — best for humid or variable climates.

Comparison