Materials and Systems—Daikin VRV-S A/C System
I have decided to start to review some of the more important systems and materials we intend to use. This is provisional but I will try to stay to the things we are most likely to stick with. The HVAC is perhaps the most costly and important of all. The climate in North Georgia dictates that cooling and heating be given just about equal emphasis. It’s cooler in the mountains and can freeze-up and we are also well south of any hope for summer comfort without A/C. This said — it would be possible (and cheaper) to go with wood heat and passive cooling but on a remod we would be really challenged to make this structure work in a passive cooling mode. I also believe that the likely use of the structure by others without my supervision might make these methods impracticable and uncomfortable. The only caveat is loss of electricity during storms. Most of the old-timers in this area have a propane heating, but electricity has and should continue to improve in reliability. The system will be capable of both heating and cooling so will eliminate the use of two separate systems and double the hardware. Daikin is a Japanese company that has loads of experience in Asia and Europe—they are now expanding over here. The Variable Refrigerant Volume System (VRV-S) system uses one compact outdoor heat pump teamed with individual units in each area. It’s more of a commercial type unit but will work well in this application and is outstandingly efficient. It allows us to control individual areas and minimize wasted energy. It is single-phase, has a space saving design, is quiet, and highly reliable. The interior units vary in size and design - some are wall mounted others ceiling mounted. The controllers are wireless and can be programed for a variety of needs.
