HVAC systems are crucial in maintaining comfortable conditions in multi-residential buildings like apartments or condos. That’s why choosing the right HVAC system is essential for efficient energy use and satisfaction of the occupants and residents. So let’s explore and compare various HVAC options, all tailored for multi-unit buildings.
Individual Vertical Heat Pumps
This type of system is made up of individual self-contained heat pumps that are mounted in each unit. It operates by transferring heat between the building interior and the outside environment, providing both heating and cooling functions. With auxiliary heat and built-in energy recovery ventilation (ERV), this type isn’t just cost-effective and relatively easy to install, it helps maintain air quality and improves overall energy efficiency.
Click here to learn more about the benefits of individual vertical heat pumps.
Vertical Heat Pumps (Centralized System)
These systems work by distributing heated or cooled water to individual living units within a multi-residential building. By using a combination of centralized heating and cooling equipment with individual vertical heat pumps in each apartment, residents can balance comfort, energy efficiency, and convenience. Centralized systems offer better temperature control and energy efficiency than self-contained units but can involve higher installation and maintenance costs (although the centralized approach allows for easier monitoring).
Click here to learn more about the benefits of a centralized system with vertical heat pumps.
Two-Pipe Fan Coil
As the name suggests, a two-pipe system has two pipes connected to the fan coil unit (one for supply and one for return). In heating mode, hot water is circulated through the coil in the fan coil unit, the fan blows air over the coil, and the warmed air is distributed into the space. In cooling mode, chilled water is circulated through the unit, the fan blows air over the coil, and the cooled air is distributed. This system offers flexibility for individual temperature control but is limited in providing simultaneous heating and cooling to different building zones.
Click here to learn more about the benefits of a two-pipe fan coil system.
Hybrid Heat Pump
These systems work by distributing heated or cooled water to individual living units within a multi-residential building. By using a combination of centralized heating and cooling equipment with individual vertical heat pumps in each apartment, residents can balance comfort, energy efficiency, and convenience. These systems optimize energy by sharing resources across multiple units but can require more maintenance and monitoring given the increased complexity (i.e. central mechanical rooms, coolers and boilers, water distribution, heat exchangers, etc.).
Click here to learn more about the benefits of a hybrid heat pump system.
Air-Cooled VRF
Air-cooled VRF (variable refrigerant flow) systems use a single outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. These systems begin with an outdoor unit with large condenser banks. The refrigerant is pumped and circulated between the outdoor unit and multiple indoor units located in different zones or rooms within the building, providing precise temperature control and simultaneous heating and cooling. VRF systems are known for their energy efficiency and zoning capabilities but do have higher upfront costs.
Click here to learn more about the benefits of an air-cooled VRF system.
Four-Pipe Fan Coil
Similar to the two-pipe system,four-pipe fan coil systems utilize a combination of chilled water and hot water to regulate indoor temperatures effectively. Whereas a two-pipe system has common pipes for heating and cooling, a four-pipe system has two separate sets of pipes for both hot water and chilled water. While a four-pipe system may be more complex and costly to install, it offers enhanced flexibility and individual control making them suitable for multi-residential buildings with diverse heating and cooling needs.
Click here to learn more about the benefits of a four-pipe fan coil system.
Water-Cooled VRF
These systems are particularly suited to large buildings and consist of a network of suite units connected to indoor water-cooled condensers through refrigerant lines. The indoor water-cooled condensers are connected to a cooling tower and a boiler, which manage the heat exchange with the water loop and provide for simultaneous heating and cooling to different zones within the building. Although these systems generally cost more in terms of installation, they are more energy efficient, emit less carbon, and operate very quietly.
Click here to learn more about the benefits of a water-cooled VRF system.
Here’s a comparison of all the various options (download the PDF version here).
Selecting the right HVAC system for a multi-unit residential building involves considering factors like energy efficiency, cost, individual control, and system complexity. Contact Alliance Engineering today to discuss your building’s requirements. We’ll help you make an informed decision that ensures optimal comfort and sustainability!