Johnson Controls will introduce its new variable refrigerant flow (VRF) and building management solutions at the 2015 AHR Expo, January 26-28, in Chicago.

According to Johnson Controls, its new VRF solution is a benefit of the company’s recent Hitachi joint venture. The ductless and modular HVAC solution heats and cools multiple building zones to increase energy savings, improve occupant comfort, and lower construction costs. VRF features Hitachi’s high-efficiency compressors and is complemented by energy modeling and selection tools to measure and compare VRF to other HVAC technologies.

“We recognize that heating and cooling strategies are not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we’ve developed new digital selection and configuration tools that will help owners, operators, and consultants compare heating and cooling solutions,” said Bill Jackson, president of Johnson Controls Building Efficiency. “When VRF is your best choice, our solution uses compressor technology that operates at unmatched efficiency levels.”

Johnson Controls will also unveil the new user interface for its Metasys building automation system, which connects HVAC, lighting, security, and fire protection systems on a single platform. New system configurations, programming capabilities, and additional IT features will aim to improve productivity, reduce energy costs, and enhance security. 

“We’ve improved Metasys by making the tool more intuitive, easier to use, and more mobile-friendly in today’s fast-paced world. The new interface transforms data into building intelligence to help owners and operators make better informed decisions to improve bottom lines and meet building needs,” said Jackson.

In addition to its VRF and Metasys advancements, Johnson Controls will also feature the following in booth 5023:

• Connected Chiller technologies to remotely monitor chiller performance in real-time to ensure system performance, proactively manage maintenance, and extend the chiller’s lifecycle.

• York magnetic centrifugal chiller (YMC2), which the company claims offers up to 13% better efficiency than conventional, variable-speed chillers.

• New design-through-delivery process for York custom air handling units orders to lower specification risk, reduce manufacturing and installation time, and ensure system quality.

• New Unitary Products Group direct-fit commercial rooftop units and the soon-to-be-released residential HVAC product line including a new residential packaged unit, air handling, unit and an outdoor condenser.

More than 40,000 people are expected to attend the AHR Expo. For more information, visit www.johnsoncontrols.com/ahr.