1. Limited Outdoor Space: The downtown location offered minimal room for heat pump outdoor unit equipment 

2. Noise Sensitivity: As a public space, the system needed to operate quietly to maintain a peaceful environment. 

3. Discreet Controls: The central control system had to be located away from public areas to avoid disruption. 

QUIET COMFORT: When the Las Vegas Natural History Museum added a new dinosaur exhibit, the project team turned to a Hitachi Topflow VRF heat pump system to deliver quiet, efficient comfort in a tight downtown footprint. (Courtesy of Hitachi)

The Solution: Preserving the Past with Future-Ready Comfort 

To meet these demands, the project team selected a Hitachi Topflow VRF heat pump system, leveraging Hitachi’s advanced technology. The system included: 

• 1 x 14 Ton Outdoor Unit (HVAHP168B32S) 

• 4 x Ducted Indoor Units (4 Ton HIDH048B23S *3, 2 Ton HIDM024B24S*1) 

• 1 x Central Controller (CCXL02, Touchscreen) 

• Wired Zone Controllers for each indoor unit (CIW01) 

Our heat pump system provided a total cooling capacity of 135 MBH and heating capacity of 187.5 MBH, with inverter-driven compressors and brushless fans ensuring quiet, efficient operation. 

Key Features and Benefits 

• Compact Footprint: The outdoor unit’s small size and lightweight design allowed for easy rooftop installation, overcoming space limitations. 

• Quiet Operation: Inverter motors and ducted indoor units with high-efficiency filters ensured minimal noise, enhancing visitor comfort. 

• Flexible Design: With vertical piping distances up to 360 feet and long total piping lengths, the system offered exceptional layout flexibility. 

• Ease of Maintenance: Simple panel access and minimal routine maintenance requirements reduced operational disruptions. 

• Smart Control: The central controller enabled remote access and scheduling, keeping system management out of public view. 

Despite the complexity of the retrofit, the installation was completed efficiently. Half of the dinosaur exhibit remained open during the process, minimizing downtime. The system has since been in daily use during museum hours, delivering consistent comfort and quiet performance. 

“We’re extremely pleased with the results. The space is cool and quiet — exactly what we needed for our new exhibit,” said Glenn Orsburn, facility manager. “Additionally, given our tight schedule, we required a fast turnaround. The Hitachi team responded promptly, providing in-stock products at a very competitive price, which made the entire process smooth and efficient.”  

The Hitachi VRF heat pump system proved to be the ideal solution for the Las Vegas Natural History Museum’s unique needs. By combining energy-efficient technology with flexible design and quiet operation, the system supports the museum’s mission to educate and inspire — comfortably and sustainably.