Variable refrigerant flow systems have allowed designers from manufacturers to supply indoor units of all shapes and sizes to be connected to one or more outdoor unit(s).
In addition, the energy saving advantages can be substantial. The outdoor unit will utilise inverter drive technology on the compressor motor allowing the compressor to match the heating/cooling requirement accurately. In most cases a VRF system can also provide cooling in one area while heating in another using the heat absorbed from the area to be cooled.
Where many indoor units are required a multi-split may have another advantage over single split systems with only one set of services linking all units reducing capital costs and installation time.