Hitachi air365 Max Offers Efficiency and Comfort, Simplifies A2L Compliance

The system features integrated refrigerant detection sensors, leak monitoring, and safety shut-off valve selection support compliant A2L design, installation, and operation without requiring additional building management system integration.
Feb. 20, 2026
3 min read
Bosch Home Comfort Group
6998b58a97f3f8a46748aab7 Air365 Max With R32 2

Bosch Home Comfort Group launched the next-generation Hitachi air365 Max, a top-flow variable refrigerant flow (VRF) commercial heat pump designed for commercial buildings requiring zone-based heating and cooling.

The system uses low-GWP R-32 refrigerant and is engineered to simplify A2L compliance, improve energy efficiency, and support decarbonization goals. Models provide reliable cooling and heating operation from -22° F to 122° F, making the system suitable for many North American climate regions.

In commercial applications such as hotels, offices, and mixed-use properties, VRF systems can provide 30–45% energy savings compared to traditional ducted systems. By using R-32, the air365 Max can reduce refrigerant charge, help meet evolving refrigerant regulations, and lower initial project costs.

The Hitachi air365 Max is designed to accommodate a variety of commercial project requirements:

  • Outdoor units available as universal heat pump and heat recovery configurations;

  • Heat recovery systems enable simultaneous heating and cooling by reusing excess heat or cool air between zones, minimizing compressor use; and

  • Single-chassis units up to 20 tons to reduce space requirements and installation labor.

The air365 Max provides an end-to-end approach to A2L-ready design and operation. All indoor units include a built-in R-32 Refrigerant Detection Sensor with a 10-year lifespan. An integrated R-32 Safety Manager monitors refrigerant leakage alarms without requiring an additional central controller or building management system (BMS) integration. Systems are classified as enhanced tightness refrigeration systems (ETRS), and leak sensors and safety shut-off valves for refrigerant safety.

The airCloud Select Web design platform supports compliant system planning by:

  • Performing instant safety evaluations;

  • Helping select safety shut-off valves;

  • Automatically calculating required A2L mitigation devices; and

  • Generating regulation-compliant piping and wiring diagrams.

The airCloud Tap mobile application supports installation, configuration, and diagnostics. It enables contractors to complete setup 30–50% faster. 

For HVACR contractors, the Hitachi air365 Max combines R-32 refrigerant, integrated safety monitoring, broad operating range, and flexible configurations to support compliance, improve energy performance, and streamline VRF installation and maintenance in commercial projects.