Daikin Australia has launched its seventh-generation VRV commercial air conditioning system, introducing R32 refrigerant technology alongside integrated safety features and improved seasonal energy efficiency.
Released on 2 November 2026, VRV 7 is described as the company’s first Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) platform to use R32 refrigerant, which has a 66 per cent lower global warming potential (GWP) than R410A.
The range includes two outdoor unit configurations. The VRV 7 S features a compact side-discharge design with capacities ranging from 11.2 kW to 24 kW, while the VRV 7 R uses a modular top-discharge design with capacities from 16 kW to 67 kW. Multiple VRV 7 R modules can be combined to support buildings requiring capacities of up to 167 kW.
Daikin said the VRV 7 R can also be configured for either Heat Pump or Heat Recovery operation, providing options for different building applications.
It noted the introduction of R32 also brings additional refrigerant safety requirements under AS/NZS 60335.2.40 and the AS/NZS 5149 series. These standards set limits on refrigerant quantities in occupied spaces based on factors including room area, indoor unit installation height, refrigerant type and system configuration.
To address these requirements, Daikin said it has incorporated its Shirudo Technology into the VRV 7 platform. The system integrates refrigerant leak detection, alarms, shut-off valves and an optional ventilation interlock to help manage potential refrigerant leaks.
“When safety measures are required, an R32 Leak Detection Sensor is installed inside the indoor unit, detecting leaks at the source,” said Sunny Wong, National Consulting Sales Manager at Daikin Australia.
The system can trigger an audio and visual alarm through the Daikin Stylish Wall Controller and activate safety shut-off valves to isolate refrigerant flow to the affected circuit. An optional ventilation and alarm interlock adaptor can also activate a Daikin Heat Reclaim Ventilator or compatible third-party equipment.
Daikin has also introduced DK-BIM selection software, which assesses installation conditions, including room dimensions, indoor unit height and total refrigerant charge, to determine when additional refrigerant safety devices are required.
“DK-BIM takes the complexity out of compliant design. No guesswork, no ambiguity,” Wong said.
In terms of performance, Daikin said VRV 7 delivers up to 35 per cent improved cooling seasonal efficiency and 42 per cent improved heating seasonal efficiency compared with its previous R410A models, based on the average zone classification.
The company attributed the efficiency improvements partly to R32’s higher refrigeration capacity per unit volume, with selected models also allowing reduced piping sizes.
“We built this range around things that matter most to the commercial market right now, which is lower environmental impact, higher seasonal efficiency, and safety compliance that’s straightforward to manage,” said Scott Walker, National Commercial Sales Manager at Daikin Australia.
“It’s a meaningful difference for building owners watching their energy costs,” he added.
VRV 7 is supported by Daikin’s service network and warranty covering parts and labour. The VRV 7 S carries a five-year warranty, while the VRV 7 R has a three-year warranty.
