Mitsubishi Electric has launched new R32 VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) air conditioning systems to offer the UK market the first complete range of lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) solutions.

The R32 City Multi YNW range is available in both heat recovery and heat pump variants to deliver lower GWP for large air conditioning systems. For the first time in the UK, this allows customers to use one single lower GWP refrigerant across a complete building or an entire network.

“Under the growing pressure of the F-Gas phase down regulations, the market is demanding viable and positive solutions which are future proof for businesses and last the full lifecycle of the product,” explains Mark Grayston, Head of the Product Marketing Department.

At a customer conference this month, Mitsubishi Electric asked its partners what the key factors in the adoption of R32 VRF are and the top three responses were: 1) cost; 2) proven VRF concept; and 3) end user CSR.

“Customers are looking for products that meet both current and future legislation and with the launch of the UK’s first R32 VRF systems, we are delighted to be able to offer the market a complete range of lower GWP solutions,” adds Grayston.

Mitsubishi Electric also announced a warranty extension at the conference for its top partners and will now offer 10-year warranties on all air conditioning equipment installed by its Diamond Quality Partners (DQPs). 

“With R32 comes an increased need for quality in both application and installation,” adds Grayston. “Our DQPs are proven to meet the highest standards of installation, including subjecting themselves to regular independent audits of their work, so we wanted to support their commitment with this extended warranty”.

R32 is now the norm for split-type air conditioning systems offering a lower GWP (675) than R410A (2088). Whilst Hybrid VRF has provided a viable R32 solution for larger systems, no standard VRF range using R32 has been available – until now.

Utilising the innovative and highly efficient City Multi YNW outdoor unit, this R32 solution offers complete design flexibility, high efficiency and low noise.

R32 makes up 50% of the existing R410A refrigerant already found in many current VRF systems, is highly energy efficient and is easy to recycle. A GWP of one third of R410A, plus reduced overall system refrigerant volumes means lower refrigerant total and lower global warming impact.

Available to specify from October, the new City Multi R32 models will be in stock from January 2020, offering sizes from 22kW to 34kW in both heat recovery and heat pump variants.

With a range of ducted and 4-way blow ceiling cassette indoor units available, the systems provide flexibility of installation for R32 VRF in many applications. They also work with the comprehensive range of advanced controllers to ensure effective and efficient operation.

“This new range enables us to offer a complete choice for any building and any customer,” comments Mark Grayston, “Whether CSR is high on the agenda for customers, or whether lifecycle cost or capital cost are more important, there is now a complete R32 choice available from Mitsubishi Electric.”