Back To Research & Programs

Oversizing VRF Systems Will Cost You in Equipment and Energy

In a DOE-sponsored study, SWA uncovered why one VRF system used six times less electricity per square foot than another across two similar high-rise apartment buildings in New York City.

Research & Programs

Key Takeaways

Installing oversized variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems based on inflated loads dramatically reduced efficiency.
Different assumptions about cooling loads lead to drastically different equipment capacities.
Oversizing has real costs.

About

Study of two new high-rise apartment buildings in New York City
Conducted by SWA in summer 2023 and sponsored by US Department of Energy (DOE)

Resources

Click here to download our two-page summary of the study results.

Summary

PDF preview; click to download

PDF preview; click to download

Read More

Research & Programs

Building Innovation Hub: Decarbonization Resources for Washington DC

SWA has supported the Building Innovation Hub since its inception in 2019, and we continue to develop resources and share expertise to help break down local BEPS and net zero mandates and further building electrification.

Research & Programs

NYC Affordable Housing Retrofit Electrification Pilot

Through our work with these New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HUD) programs, SWA has provided technical assistance for the electrification of over 40 affordable housing buildings.

Research & Programs

NYC Accelerator Program

Helping New York City owners, building staff, and practitioners comply with Local Law 97 and reduce carbon emissions from the building stock.