Choosing the most suitable HVAC solution for large spaces depends on a range of factors, including the building's size and height, air distribution requirements, available system infrastructure, and installation constraints. Carefully assessing these aspects from the earliest stages of a project helps optimize system efficiency while simplifying installation, operation, and maintenance over the long term. To address these needs, Daikin is expanding its portfolio with the launch of Vertical Water and the new Space Cooler & Heater range, available in both DX and Water versions. The new units will be available for sale from November 2026.
Providing heating and cooling for large spaces such as warehouses, logistics centers, manufacturing facilities, workshops, gyms, and sports venues requires an approach that goes far beyond simply sizing thermal capacity. In these environments, high ceiling heights, large air volumes, and the presence of racking systems, machinery, or other structures can hinder uniform air distribution, leading to temperature differences and uneven comfort levels. The real challenge is therefore not only generating heating or cooling, but ensuring that conditioned air reaches occupied areas effectively while maintaining optimal comfort, energy efficiency, and climate control throughout the building.
In addition to heating and cooling demand, designers must consider the building configuration, internal layout, and operational requirements of the space. Existing infrastructure also plays a decisive role. The presence of hydronic networks, direct-expansion systems, an available electrical supply, and installation space for new equipment can significantly influence the choice of technology. It is equally important to consider how the building will be used, distinguishing between applications that require only heating and those that demand year-round heating and cooling. Other aspects, such as continuous or intermittent system operation and whether the project involves new construction or refurbishment, also affect the selection of the most effective solution. Only a comprehensive evaluation of these elements enables the design of a system capable of delivering high performance, uniform air distribution, long-term reliability, and optimised operating costs.
When designing heating and cooling systems for large spaces, one of the first decisions is whether to use a direct expansion (DX) system or a hydronic system. There is no universally superior solution. The best choice depends on the building characteristics, existing infrastructure, and project objectives.
A DX (Direct Expansion) system uses refrigerant as the distribution medium, delivering it directly to terminal units to provide heating or cooling. This configuration eliminates the need for a hydronic network and can be particularly effective in a wide range of applications. Within the Daikin portfolio, the DX versions of Vertical and Space Cooler & Heater can be connected to VRV 5 systems or ERA condensing units, offering an integrated, high-performance solution.
This technology is often considered for new buildings, extensions to existing VRV installations, or applications where a water distribution network is unavailable. It is also an attractive option for customers seeking direct refrigerant distribution and a simplified system architecture.
Hydronic systems use hot or chilled water as the heat transfer medium, distributed through a piping network connected to chillers or heat pumps. This configuration is particularly common in large commercial and industrial buildings, where centralised infrastructure is often already in place.
The hydronic versions of Vertical and Space Cooler & Heater have been specifically designed to integrate with systems powered by chillers or heat pumps, enabling full utilisation of existing hydronic networks. This solution is especially advantageous when the building already has a water distribution system, when centralised heating and cooling plants are installed, or when a refurbishment project requires upgrading an existing system without significant modifications to the installed infrastructure.
The installation position also plays a crucial role, as it directly affects air distribution, integration within the building, and ease of installation and maintenance. The choice between a floor-mounted solution and a wall- or ceiling-mounted installation mainly depends on the space configuration, the activities performed within the building, and any structural constraints.
Daikin Vertical units are an ideal solution when ceiling installation is not possible or practical. For this reason, they are particularly suitable for refurbishment projects in existing buildings and for applications where structural modifications must be kept to a minimum. Thanks to their floor-mounted installation, these units can be easily integrated into available spaces, simplifying installation and reducing both installation time and costs. In many cases, this helps minimise operational downtime and speed up system commissioning, which is a major advantage for manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and commercial environments.
Despite its compact design, Daikin Vertical delivers powerful, reliable heating and cooling for large spaces. Both the DX and Hydronic versions provide a nominal airflow of 4,000 m³/h, ensuring uniform comfort distribution. The DX version offers capacities of up to 27.8 kW in cooling and 31.5 kW in heating, while the Hydronic version delivers up to 30 kW in both cooling and heating. Designed to operate across a wide range of indoor temperatures, the unit provides consistent comfort, operational continuity, and high energy efficiency in numerous commercial and industrial applications. These features ensure optimal comfort and high reliability even in large environments.
The Plug & Play configuration makes installation even easier and faster. The control panel and coil connections can be positioned on either the right or left side of the unit, adapting easily to site requirements. In addition, no ductwork is required for standard operation, further reducing installation complexity. Where project requirements demand it, the unit can also be adapted for ducted applications through simple modifications or dedicated accessories, providing significant design flexibility.
With the introduction of Vertical Water, Daikin expands the Vertical range by offering the same benefits of compactness, performance, and ease of installation already appreciated in the DX version, now available for hydronic applications as well. This new solution provides greater design flexibility and easier integration into a variety of system configurations. To meet specific project requirements, the Hydronic version is available either with an integrated 2-way valve for optimized water flow control and more efficient system management, or without a valve for maximum freedom in system configuration and integration.
Daikin Space Cooler & Heater units have been designed to provide effective heating and cooling in large spaces with high air volumes. Thanks to their wall- or ceiling-mounted installation, they are an ideal solution when keeping the entire operating area free is essential. In environments where every square meter of floor space has strategic value, installing the unit in an elevated position allows space optimisation without interfering with activities, machinery, logistics routes, or storage areas.
This configuration is especially effective in buildings with high ceilings, where air must be distributed evenly across large areas. Thanks to the high airflow and adjustable discharge nozzles, air can be directed precisely toward occupied zones, improving both comfort and overall system efficiency.
The DX version, with a nominal airflow of 4,000 m³/h, delivers high performance year-round, offering capacities of up to 27.8 kW for cooling and 31.5 kW for heating. Thanks to an air throw of more than 30 meters, it ensures uniform temperature distribution even in large spaces, enhancing both comfort and energy efficiency.
The Hydronic version, also featuring a nominal airflow of 4,000 m³/h, offers maximum application flexibility, with capacities of up to 31 kW in both cooling and heating. Designed to operate across a wide range of conditions, it ensures reliable performance and consistent comfort, with indoor temperatures ranging from 10 to 27°C in heating mode and 20 to 35°C in cooling mode. The unit is equipped with a high-efficiency axial fan, is suitable for both heating and cooling applications, and can be fitted with an optional valve kit for increased design flexibility.
Daikin Space Cooler & Heater is available in three configurations to meet different application requirements and budgets:
A truly efficient system is one that not only guarantees comfort and reliability but also simplifies installation, operation, and maintenance throughout its lifecycle. Before selecting a solution, it is important to verify the availability of the required electrical supply, service clearances, and accessibility of the units for future maintenance activities. It is also essential to evaluate the routing of refrigerant or hydronic connections and ensure proper condensate drainage management for cooling applications.
Maintenance is another key consideration. Easy access to internal components, straightforward cleaning and filter replacement procedures, coil inspection, and monitoring of condensate drainage systems all help reduce intervention time and maintenance costs. This results in greater operational continuity and more efficient long-term system management.
Daikin Vertical and Space Cooler & Heater units have been designed to simplify installation in refurbishment and retrofit projects, where minimising structural interventions and reducing operational downtime are essential. Thanks to their ductless design, installation is faster, less invasive, and generally more cost-effective than traditional solutions.
In addition, both units are equipped with efficient air filtration systems. Vertical features an ISO ePM10 60% (M5) filter, while Space Cooler & Heater is equipped with ISO Coarse metal filters. These solutions help improve indoor air quality, protect internal components, and ensure long-lasting performance and efficiency.
Ultimately, choosing a solution designed for easy installation, operation, and maintenance not only facilitates the initial project phase but also helps preserve energy efficiency, reliability, and comfort over time, maximising the value of the investment.
Daikin Vertical and Daikin Space Cooler & Heater are designed and manufactured at the Daikin Applied Europe facility in Caleppio di Settala (Milan), one of Europe's leading production centers dedicated to HVAC solutions for commercial and industrial applications. Designing and manufacturing in Italy allows Daikin to maintain direct control over every stage of the process, from development to production, ensuring high standards of quality, reliability, and technological innovation.
These advantages are further strengthened by the immediate availability of stock for both product ranges. Thanks to the ready availability of multiple configurations, delivery times can be significantly reduced, and project implementation accelerated, which is particularly important for retrofit, replacement, and system expansion projects.
Choosing Daikin Vertical and Daikin Space Cooler & Heater means relying on Made in Italy solutions that combine certified quality, European expertise, and immediate availability to meet the heating and cooling needs of large spaces quickly and effectively.