Mechanical contractors, specifying engineers and building owners have many options when it comes to heating and cooling buildings. Maintenance and life-cycle costs are important factors to consider when selecting which system to install, especially when seeking to control costs and improve the reliability and efficiency of an HVAC system.

An apples-to-apples comparison of hydronic systems and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems is beneficial in selecting the best system for a building. While VRF is attractive for its ductless technology and claims of superior energy efficiency, industry studies demonstrate how hydronic systems outperform VRF systems in terms of energy use.