How a ducted system works
A ducted system has one indoor unit, usually in the roof space or under the floor, which pushes conditioned air through insulated ducts to an outlet in each room. Zoning lets you open and close groups of rooms, but every zone that's running receives air at the same temperature.
How a VRV/VRF system works
A VRV/VRF system connects one outdoor system to many indoor units, one for each room or area. The refrigerant flow to each indoor unit is adjusted continuously, so every room can be set to its own temperature and only the rooms in use are running. More on VRV/VRF for homes →
The main differences
- Room control. Ducted zoning switches areas on and off. A VRV/VRF system gives each room its own temperature and controller.
- Efficiency. A VRV/VRF system only works as hard as the rooms in use require. A ducted system works best when its zones are well planned and only the zones you need are open.
- Space. A ducted system needs room for one larger indoor unit and the duct runs. A VRV/VRF system uses smaller indoor units and refrigerant pipework, which can be easier to fit into a complex house.
- Outdoor equipment. Both use outdoor plant. A large home on VRV/VRF can often be served by one outdoor system instead of several separate units.
- Appearance. Both can be concealed so that only slim outlets and controllers are visible.
When ducted is the better choice
For many single and double-storey family homes, a well-designed, zoned ducted system is the simpler and more economical choice, and it does the job beautifully.
When VRV/VRF is the better choice
Larger and multi-level homes, homes with many rooms used at different times of day, and projects where individual control and appearance are priorities are where a VRV/VRF system earns its place.
Getting the recommendation right
We look at the plans or the house itself, ask how each room is used, and recommend what suits. Sometimes that's a VRV/VRF system; often it's ducted. Talk to us about your home.