Daikin Applied (UK) Expands Compact AHU Range with Compact R
New rotary heat recovery air handling unit delivers high efficiency in space-constrained UK commercial buildings
Daikin Applied (UK) has expanded its compact air handling unit (AHU) portfolio with the launch of Compact R, a new rotary heat recovery solution designed to deliver improved energy performance while retaining the space-saving footprint demanded by UK commercial projects.
Part of the established Compact series, Compact R introduces rotary heat recovery within a highly compact casing, providing an efficient ventilation solution for offices, retail, education and refurbishment projects where plant space is limited.
Developed with energy efficiency, installation flexibility and ease of use in mind, Compact R combines proven Daikin engineering with independently certified performance.
A versatile solution for UK commercial buildings
Compact R is available in seven sizes, covering airflow rates from 500 to 6,000 m³/h, making it suitable for a wide range of light commercial and public-sector applications, including offices, schools, retail units, and mixed-use developments.
Units are available in right- or left-hand configurations with side-duct connections, helping simplify layout design and installation on constrained sites. Thanks to its compact dimensions, Compact R can be installed indoors or outdoors, supporting both new-build and retrofit projects where space and access are often restricted.
The unit’s airflow design supports consistent ventilation performance and contributes to improved indoor air quality (IAQ), an increasingly important consideration in UK building regulations and workplace wellbeing strategies.
Configuration flexibility for diverse applications
To meet varying project requirements, Compact R can be specified with a wide range of accessories, including electric heaters, heating coils for pre- or post-treatment, additional filtration stages and sound attenuators. This enables consultants and contractors to tailor the unit to suit applications ranging from education and hospitality to offices and retail environments.
Integrated Daikin systems approach.
Compact R is fully compatible with the Daikin AHU-DX kit, enabling a fully integrated system in which the AHU and condensing unit operate on a single control platform. This reduces wiring complexity, speeds up commissioning and helps ensure consistent system performance.
The primary treatment coil – available as either a water or DX coil – is integrated directly into the unit, maintaining the compact footprint. The AHU-DX kit supports decarbonisation strategies by enabling heating and cooling without gas boilers and is compatible with R-410A and R-32 refrigerants.
Compact R can also be combined with Daikin VRV R-32 systems, featuring built-in safety devices to support compliance with current standards.
Selection and configuration are carried out using Astra Web, Daikin’s AHU selection software, ensuring accurate and efficient system design.
Efficient rotary heat recovery
At the heart of Compact R is a rotary heat recovery wheel, available in condensation or sorption versions, capable of recovering both sensible and latent heat. By transferring energy from the exhaust air to the incoming fresh air, Compact R significantly reduces overall energy demand while maintaining stable indoor conditions year-round.
Reliable operation with low maintenance demands
The unit features ePM1 50% (F7) filtration on the supply air and ePM10 75% (M5) filtration on the return air, delivering high indoor air quality while protecting internal components. Combined with Daikin’s robust engineering and compact layout, this results in a reliable solution with reduced maintenance requirements.
Independently certified performance
Compact R is Eurovent certified, providing independent verification of performance data and giving UK designers, consultants, and end users confidence that the unit will perform as specified.
Fast delivery and straightforward installation
Produced under a Make-to-Stock (MTS) approach, Compact R offers short lead times to support fast-track projects. Larger sizes are supplied in two modules, simplifying handling and installation in confined plant rooms or refurbishment projects. While configured for indoor installation as standard, an outdoor kit is available where required.
Units are delivered plug-and-play, with pre-configured settings to streamline installation and commissioning.
Smart control and monitoring
As a decentralised ventilation solution, Compact R supports zone-by-zone control and rapid installation. Integration with the Daikin IEQ sensor enables monitoring of indoor air quality and supports Demand Controlled Ventilation (DCV), which automatically adjusts ventilation rates to match actual occupancy and IAQ conditions.
Compact R is also compatible with Daikin on Site (DoS), Daikin Applied’s 24/7 remote monitoring platform, providing continuous performance insight, improved reliability and reduced downtime.
The unit uses Daikin’s Pro open control platform, ensuring full interoperability with modern Building Management Systems (BMS) and allowing fine-tuning of operation throughout the system’s life.
For more information on Daikin Applied UK’s air handling solutions, visit:
👉 https://www.daikinapplied.uk
👉Product Page Compact R