Carrier Solutions UK has successfully supported a major refurbishment at The Reach Hotel in Manchester (formerly La Reserve Apartments), delivering a Toshiba Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) solution in collaboration with trusted contractor A.C. Mechanical Services (ACMS).
Carrier Solutions UK Ltd (formerly Toshiba Carrier UK Ltd) is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions.
Toshiba’s VRF technology
The system ensures even comfort, precise climate control and seamless integration with the hotel’s BMS
The project transformed the site from 80 serviced apartments into a 215-room luxury hotel operated by Molo Hotel Group. ACMS delivered a £2 million mechanical services package, with Toshiba’s VRF technology at the project's core. The system ensures consistent comfort, precise climate control and seamless integration with the hotel’s building management system (BMS).
The comprehensive refurbishment presented several challenges, including shallow ceiling voids, obstructive beams, and unforeseen water leaks. As a result, the original eight-month programme was extended to two years. ACMS overcame these obstacles by tailoring its approach floor by floor, ensuring long-term performance and guest satisfaction.
Toshiba SHRMe full inverter heat recovery
A Toshiba SHRMe full inverter heat recovery 3-pipe VRF system with 18 modular rooftop condensers was installed, offering ESEER (European Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings of 8 and above across most capacities. The system included:
- Individual flow selector boxes per room for simultaneous heating and cooling
- Simplified room controllers are designed for ease of use by guests
- A centralized manager’s control system for efficient building-wide monitoring
- High-performance filters to capture dust and allergens
- Integrated standalone heat recovery ventilation (HRV) units for each room
- Bypass mode capability for fan energy savings during mild weather
Indoor air quality and energy efficiency
Indoor air quality and energy efficiency were improved through Toshiba Air-to-Air Heat Exchangers
Indoor air quality and energy efficiency were improved through Toshiba Air-to-Air Heat Exchangers, which transfer heat or cooling energy from expelled air to incoming fresh air.
“The Toshiba system was ideal for this project,” said David Aquilina, Managing Director at A.C. Mechanical Services. “Our long-standing relationship with Carrier Solutions UK meant we could rely on their support and product quality. Despite some early delivery challenges, the system's performance has been outstanding.”
Toshiba VRF system
Peter Nye, General Manager at The Reach Hotel and part of Molo Hotel Group, added: “The Toshiba VRF system has exceeded our expectations. Guests appreciate the comfort and quiet operation, while the system ensures reliable performance and even distribution across the hotel. The integration with our BMS makes it easier for our team to monitor and adjust settings as needed, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.”
The Reach Hotel installation highlights Carrier Solutions UK’s ability to support complex refurbishments through advanced HVAC solutions tailored for the hospitality sector.
