A new guide on variable refrigerant flow (VRF) air conditioning was published in December 2017 ior cibse vrfas a joint publication from the Institute of Refrigeration and CIBSE. IOR members will be able to download it for FREE from the web site. Over the last 30 years VRF systems have established themselves as effective cooling and heating technology in a range commercial applications. During this time VRF manufacturers have innovated and developed their own range of different VRF solutions. With increased focus on energy efficiency, carbon emissions and sustainability, the need for guidance on the design, application and use of VRF cooling and heating systems has become more important.

The main purpose of this publication is to provide an independent source of information to assist designers in selecting and configuring VRF systems to realise their optimum environmental and economic potential. Specifically, it provides:

  • an understanding of the technology and its applications
  • explanations of the differences between VRF and alternative technologies
  • information on the availability and comparability of systems
  • information on the calculation of heating and cooling loads and effects on component selection
  • an understanding and recognition of the importance of diversity and capacity ratios in VRF applications
  • guidance on how to achieve energy efficient systems
  • information on how best to specify VRF systems
  • advice on commissioning procedures
  • information on maintenance, training and resources

Free to IOR and CIBSE members. £72 inc VAT for non members.

Download the new IOR CIBSE VRF Air Conditioning Guide

Or search all of our publications in the Technical Information download area.

 

Recent posts

Pic 4

Government Consultation on the Role of Clean Heating Solutions

21 Jan 2026

As part of its commitment to decarbonisation, the UK Government has launched a consultation to understand what alternative technologies are available across different types of domestic and non-domestic buildings to ensure consumers have a choice of suitable low-carbon heating technology options.

 

News
TechTalk Feb 26 1

Waste Heat and Minewater Potential for District Heating and Cooling

20 Jan 2026

How could waste heat and minewater transform district heating and cooling? Join Ted Perry Award winner Eshagh Goudarzi for a session exploring the potential of these low‑carbon thermal energy sources for heating and cooling.

Online event
Cover

Technical Updates, News on Skills & Tips on Maximising Membership

14 Jan 2026

It's all in the latest IOR Newsletter! This issue includes technical updates, progressing the skills objectives and tips on how to make the most of your membership including how to apply for Engineering Council registration.

Publication
CallyBeaton 30941 RT Press

IOR Annual Dinner After Dinner Speaker Announced

6 Jan 2026

The organising committee is delighted to announce that broadcaster Cally Beaton will be this year’s after-dinner speaker at the IOR Annual Dinner. 

Live event
Programme Card 2026

New 2026 Programme Card of IOR Events

5 Jan 2026

Members should have received the latest IOR Programme Card, highlighting events that will take place over the coming months. We're kicking things off in January with two events!

 

News