Refurbishment of two UK hotels ahead of rebranding provided an opportunity to showcase the latest in air conditioning technology, boosting the owners’ environmental credentials and ensuring optimum comfort for guests.
Both hotels have Daikin’s R32-based VRV 5 heat recovery systems serving guest bedrooms. This high-efficiency, low environmental impact specification also helps keep operating costs under control for the operators, Starboard Hotels.
Hotel group picks Daikin R32 heat recovery systems for two key rebranded sites
The hotels are the Ibis Styles at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, and the Holiday Inn at Derby Riverlights. These are two flagships in Starboard’s portfolio of small to medium-sized franchised hotels. Both are soon to be rebranded.
Andy Burne, property director for the 21-hotel group, says: “Starboard is a family-run company that looks to grow by acquisition and development, owning and managing with a long-term strategy, hence we value quality manufacturers, suppliers and aftercare providers.
“We could have gone for R410A systems but before making our choice, we looked closely at R32 solutions and spoke to other users.
“The R32 solution brings additional safety features and environmental benefits. We see this as a way to future-proof our investments and get ahead in the net zero game.
Future ready installations
“Daikin products are more or less bullet-proof, and it soon became clear that other manufacturers could not meet our needs.”
The VRV 5 system offers a lower Global Warming Potential and uses smaller refrigerant charges than R410A systems, making it easier to meet modern environmental standards and achieve more efficient, future-ready installations.
The two Starboard solutions were designed – using Daikin’s VRV Xpress schematics – and installed by Bolton-based K2 Heating and Cooling Solutions.
K2’s Phil Humphreys says: “Daikin’s built-in leak detection was a big success factor – and the support from Daikin engineers was a great help during installation and commissioning.
Guests don’t even need to know the systems are there. Of course they can control the temperature, but it works really well on its own.
Andy Burne, Property Director, 21-Hotel Group
The end result
The Starboard projects show how Daikin’s VRV 5 system brings clarity and efficiency to complex refurbishments. Its modular design made installation straightforward, even where space and access were limited. Built-in leak detection and easy service access help keep maintenance quick and disruption low.
For Starboard, that means reliable performance, lower running costs and long-term value. Smart control and consistent comfort complete the picture, delivering efficiency, peace of mind and a clear step towards a more sustainable future.
