Case studies

A School Gets NZ’s First Hybrid VRF System

Rototuna is a rapidly growing area north east of Hamilton. In 2016, Rototuna Junior High School for Years 7 – 10, opened with over 600 foundation students.

The Challenge

To select an HVAC solution suitable for the wide variety of offices, classrooms, and music rooms in the Junior High School building. The music practice rooms in particular were small, and required to be air-conditioned, yet remain totally soundproof at the request of the client.

The Solution

New Zealand's first HVRF project!

One small Mitsubishi Electric HVRF system was installed to serve several music practice rooms, where noise control was the determining factor. The Mitsubishi Electric PEFY-WP20VMA-E HVRF indoor units on this system enabled the music rooms to be fully sealed and soundproofed, without the client needing to install costly refrigerant leak detection systems.

One standard Mitsubishi Electric VRF system and an AHU system were also installed to serve the heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation requirements of the other areas of the building. All equipment selected was then wired to a BAC-HD150 to enable high level control of all air-conditioning equipment via the BMS system.

Photo by Anna Pratt.