Overview
ISO 18107:2026 sets out standardized methods for testing, rating, and calculating the seasonal performance factors and energy efficiency of variable refrigerant flow (VRF) air-to-air conditioners and air-to-air heat pumps. This International Standard, published by ISO, provides a harmonized framework for evaluating the real-world energy performance of large, factory-made VRF air-cooled systems powered by electricity, with rated cooling or heating capacities above 12 kW. It applies to both cooling and heating systems, helping manufacturers, technicians, and regulatory bodies ensure reliable performance data for system selection, comparison, and regulatory compliance.
Key Topics
- Test Conditions and Methods: Criteria for determining capacity and efficiency ratings under standard and seasonal operating conditions.
- Seasonal Performance Calculations: Guidance on calculating seasonal performance factors like SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance), HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor), and annual performance factors.
- Energy Performance Mapping: Methods to develop energy performance maps for use in building simulation and modeling.
- Global and Regional Adaptation: Annexes addressing specific regional deviations such as climate zones, power requirements, or testing procedures.
- Test Report and Ratings Publication: Requirements for documenting and publishing performance data.
- Exclusions: Does not apply to water-source heat pumps, water-cooled air conditioners, certain multi-split systems, or incomplete assemblies.
Applications
ISO 18107:2026 offers practical value in several areas within the HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) sector:
- Product Development: Enables manufacturers to standardize testing and rating of VRF air-to-air heat pumps and air conditioners, ensuring comparability and supporting innovation.
- Regulatory Compliance: Provides the basis for performance certification, labeling, and meeting international energy efficiency requirements.
- Procurement and Specification: Assists engineers, contractors, and consultants in selecting appropriate VRF equipment based on reliable, standardized performance data.
- Building Simulation and Design: Supplies calculation methods and mapping approaches essential for energy modeling and simulation, allowing for optimized HVAC system integration in new construction or retrofits.
- Regional and National Adaptation: The standard's annexes facilitate compliance with specific local testing conditions and regulations, making it globally applicable while supporting national variations.
Related Standards
- ISO 5151: Non-ducted air conditioners and heat pumps – Testing and rating for performance
- ISO 13253: Ducted air conditioners and air-to-air heat pumps – Testing and rating for performance
- ISO 15042: Multiple split-system air conditioners and air-to-air heat pumps – Testing and rating for performance
These related ISO standards provide reference frameworks for other types and configurations of air conditioning and heat pump equipment, ensuring a cohesive approach to HVACR performance evaluation.
Keywords: ISO 18107, VRF, variable refrigerant flow, air-to-air conditioner, air-to-air heat pump, energy performance, seasonal performance factor, SEER, SCOP, HSPF, energy efficiency, HVAC standard, testing methods, energy performance mapping, VRF testing, HVAC certification, HVAC compliance.
By following ISO 18107:2026, stakeholders in the HVAC industry can guarantee accurate, consistent assessment of seasonal efficiency and energy performance, supporting energy savings, transparent product information, and informed decision-making across global markets.