In general, VRF equipment has proven to be very reliable with proper application

and installation. Problems tend to arise when quality of installation is not a priority
and details of manufacturer installation manuals aren't adhered to. Two main types
of system failures experienced are either electrical/communication or mechanical
compressor failures.

Though some of this information is specific to Daikin VRV and its installation

manuals, the same principles lie true for many VRF manufacturers. Installation
guidelines are in no way limited to the information below, this article serves as a
summary of some frequently overlooked details at the core of a successful
installation. Always consult the manufacturer's representative and installation
manuals for proper installation protocol.

Nitrogen Purge

Oxidation in refrigerant pipes during brazing can lead to clogged strainers, restricted
flow through EEVs, and other issues in the system. This problem has always been an
issue in the HVAC industry, but has become more prevalent with the shift from HCFC
refrigerants (R-22) that use mineral oil to new HFC refrigerants (R-410a) using
Polyolester (POE) oils. POE oils have a solvent effect and can scrub the copper tube
walls, causing oxide from tube walls and loose scale to circulate through the
system.To ensure no oxidation takes place during installation, all brazing of
refrigerant piping should be performed with a dry nitrogen purge. Nitrogen needs to
flow until the pipe cools and torque values are as per installation instructions.
Pressure Testing

Pressure testing helps ensure a leak free system, a critical component to a successful
installation. Max PSI and duration of pressure tests can vary between manufacturers
and should be reviewed in the installation manual. All Daikin VRV systems should be
pressure tested to 550 PSIG and held for 24 hours. First, start the nitrogen pressure
test at 150 PSIG and hold for 3 minutes. Then increase the pressure to 325 PSIG and
hold for 5 minutes. If no leaks are present, further increase the pressure to 550 PSIG
and hold for 24 hours. Note: systems including FXTQ units should be tested at a
maximum of 450 PSIG.

Triple Evacuation

Why is a triple evacuation so important instead of a deep vacuum? The reason lies in
the relationship between pressure and temperature with water. When the first
vacuum is pulled, some of the moisture in the lines boils and evaporates. However,
once it reaches a certain pressure the water will actually freeze and leave small ice
crystals in the system. This is why a single deep vacuum is insufficient. Here is
a helpful video clip showing this principle in action.

A triple evacuation of all piping should be performed to eliminate moisture in the

system:

1. Pull a vacuum to 4,000 microns and hold for 15 minutes. Introduce

nitrogen into the system at 2-3 psi. Always break the vacuum with
nitrogen.

2. Pull a vacuum to 1,500 microns and hold for 20 minutes.

3. Evacuate the system down to 500 microns and hold for 1 hour.

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Flared Connections and Pipe Fittings

All flared connections must be torqued to standard torque values relative to flare nut
size. Daikin VRV systems use REFNET fittings to split refrigerant pipe branches in the
system. Other fittings such as T-style joints (often used in plumbing) are not allowed
and will cause improper operation of the system. REFNETs are designed to maintain
laminar flow and allow for proper oil return/circulation through the refrigerant
piping network. It is key to install REFNETs as close to horizontal as possible (+/- 30°)
with a minimum of 12" of straight pipe run before/after every fitting to prevent noise
and flow issues. See this video clip for an example of how flow changes based on
the orientation of a REFNET fitting.

Pipe Insulation

All piping insulation should be in accordance with the manufacturer's minimum

required thickness along with local code. Some side effects of an improperly
insulated system can be decreased capacity, efficiencies, and the formation of
condensation. Daikin VRV's minimum insulation thicknesses are:
In many areas local code will take precedent, requiring even thicker piping insulation
based on operating temperatures of the refrigerant lines (upwards of 1.5").

Note: All insulation pieces shipped with a manufacturer's equipment should be taken
note of and retained. For instance, as shown above, REFNET fittings are shipped with
a specially formed insulation piece around the fitting. This should be used on the
fitting for the final installation and not thrown out to ensure a proper and tight seal
is evident around the piping.

Communication Wiring

While not as complicated as refrigerant piping, specifics such as wire size

requirements, grounding requirements, length limits, and network topology need to
be followed closely and will vary between manufacturers. In a Daikin VRV system, do
not use 4-conductor or solid thermostat wire. They will cause communication and
interference issues. Communication wiring should be 18-2 or 16-2 AWG, 2-
conductor, stranded, non-polarized, non-shielded copper cable.