Air Conditioning in Apartment Design: VRF System vs. Mini-Central Multi-Split System

Proper air conditioning planning is one of the most critical aspects of apartment design, and it directly affects the comfort of the residents, the operating costs, and even the overall appearance of the space. In an era of accelerated technological progress, we have several advanced options, the most prominent of which for modern apartments are VRF (variable refrigeration flow) systems and Multi-Split mini-central systems. The right choice between them requires a thorough understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each system and adaptation to the specific needs of the apartment and the residents.

Is air conditioning related to interior design? Yes and no.

The relationship between air conditioning planning and interior design is complex, and the answer to this question is both yes and no:

Yes, unequivocally: air conditioning significantly affects interior design.

Designing an air conditioning system requires marking drain points, designing dedicated electrical outlets for the units, and most importantly – designing the ceiling recesses and cornices required to hide pipes and/or hidden indoor units. Furthermore, it is important to choose the type and type of grilles and strips – those visible elements – that should integrate harmoniously with the ceiling, walls, and the overall design style of the space. Designed or hidden grilles can raise the level of finish, while unsuitable grilles may damage the aesthetics.
All of these aspects require full coordination between the merger planner and the interior designer from the early stages of planning – to prevent planning conflicts and forced solutions.

And no, indirectly: there are technical components in the system that are not related to design.

Certain components of the air conditioning system, such as the type of compressor, the cooling technology (e.g. inverter), or the type of refrigerant, do not directly affect the appearance of the space. These are essentially technical decisions that affect energy efficiency, noise levels, and maintenance – but not the appearance of the living room or bedroom. However, these technical decisions determine the need and manner of lowering and grilles – and therefore they also indirectly affect the design.
The HVAC consultant is solely responsible for planning the location of evaporators and condensers, the horsepower required, and the routing of piping or ducting – if any. Although these are essentially technical decisions, close collaboration with the interior designer is essential.
The interior designer “places” the merging plan on top of the lowering and lighting plan using a superposition (layering) method to ensure that all elements integrate well – both aesthetically and functionally – and thus prevent unwanted conflicts.

Mini-central air conditioning system (Multi-Split): a common and effective solution

Mini-central systems, also known as "multi-split" systems, are an evolution of the familiar split air conditioners. Instead of a separate outdoor unit for each indoor unit, this system allows multiple indoor units (evaporators) to be connected to a single outdoor unit.

Advantages:

Separate control: Each indoor unit operates independently, allowing different temperature control in each room or area.
Relatively low initial cost: Typically, the initial installation cost of a mini-central system is lower than that of a VRF system, making it more attractive on limited budgets.
Suitable for small to medium-sized apartments: An excellent solution for apartments where a relatively small number of air conditioning units are required (up to 5-6 indoor units).
Relative simplicity in installation and maintenance: The system structure is relatively simpler, which can facilitate installation and ongoing maintenance processes.

Disadvantages:

Less energy efficient than VRF: Although it is more efficient than several separate split air conditioners, it is still less efficient than a VRF system, especially in large apartments or with prolonged use.
Limited flexibility: There is a limit on the number of indoor units that can be connected to one outdoor unit and on the length of the piping.
Inability for simultaneous heating and cooling: In most systems of this type, all indoor units must operate in the same mode (heating or cooling).

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VRF system: the advanced solution for residential air conditioning

VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems represent the cutting edge of air conditioning technology. Similar to mini-central systems, they consist of a single outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. The key difference lies in the variable refrigerant flow control technology, which allows for precise control and significant energy savings.

Advantages:

Extremely high energy efficiency: VRF systems are considered the most efficient on the market today. The inverter compressor is able to precisely regulate the cooling/heating output according to the specific demand at any given moment, leading to significant electricity savings.
Maximum planning flexibility: Allows the connection of a large number of indoor units (up to dozens, depending on the size of the system) to a single outdoor unit, with a wide variety of indoor unit types (concealed, mini-cassette, designed overhead, etc.). This allows for optimal adaptation to any interior design.
Simultaneous heating and cooling (in Heat Recovery systems): A huge advantage of advanced VRF systems is the ability to cool one area and heat another at the same time, which is especially relevant in large apartments or houses with different air directions.
Precise control and maximum comfort: Each indoor unit is controlled independently and precisely, with the option of central and smart control systems.
Silent operation: The indoor units are extremely quiet, and the outdoor unit also operates relatively quietly.
Aesthetic solution: Hidden or designed interior units allow for full integration with the apartment's interior design.

Disadvantages:

High initial cost: The purchase and installation price of a VRF system is significantly higher than a mini-central system. However, the long-term energy savings can offset this cost.
Installation complexity: Requires more professional and precise planning and installation, by qualified installers.

So how do you choose?

The choice between a VRF system and a mini-central system depends on several factors:

Apartment size and number of rooms: For small to medium-sized apartments (3-5 rooms) with a limited budget, a mini-central system can be an excellent and economical solution. For large apartments, luxury homes, or apartments with a large number of spaces to air-condition, a VRF system will be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.
Initial budget versus operating costs: If initial budget is a deciding factor, a mini-central will be cheaper. If you are looking for maximum savings on your electricity bills over the years and are willing to invest more initially, VRF is the right choice.
The level of control and comfort required: If precise control in each room is required, and perhaps even simultaneous heating/cooling capability, VRF outperforms the mini-central.
Design flexibility: If it is important to you that the air conditioner be "invisible" and blend perfectly with the interior design, a VRF system with hidden interior units would be preferable.
Nature of use: Does the air conditioner run for long hours in most rooms of the house, or only in certain rooms and at specific times? Intensive use justifies investing in a VRF.

In conclusion, when planning a new apartment or renovating an existing apartment, Coordination between the air conditioning planner and the interior designer is critical.Only close cooperation will ensure that the chosen solution will not only be efficient and economical, but will also integrate seamlessly and perfectly into the overall aesthetics of the apartment, combining comfort, efficiency, and aesthetics.