Not every commercial project needs the largest VRF plant on the market. For smaller office blocks, retail units, or mixed-use properties, the Toshiba Mini-SMMS VRF system offers an ideal balance of performance and compact footprint. Designed with installers in mind, it brings the same VRF control and zoning flexibility you’d expect from large systems, but in a smaller, easier-to-handle package.
In this guide, we’ll explore the entire Mini-SMMS VRF range, its technical specifications, compatible indoor units, and installation planning advice. You’ll also find local examples and answers to the questions M&E contractors and project managers often search for online.
Explore our commercial installation services:
https://www.climateworks.co.uk/commercial-air-conditioning
Why Choose Mini-SMMS?
The Mini-SMMS series is designed for projects that need VRF zoning flexibility without requiring high-capacity outdoor modules. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Multi-tenant office floors with limited rooftop or balcony space
- Retail units in shopping centres where outdoor unit size is restricted
- Schools and colleges with mixed-use classrooms and admin offices
- Refurbishment projects with weight and footprint constraints
- Hospitality venues requiring quiet and compact systems
Mini-SMMS allows you to retain the benefits of VRF—such as simultaneous heating and cooling, wide indoor unit choice, and advanced controls—while simplifying installation.
Toshiba Mini-SMMS Outdoor Unit Range
The Mini-SMMS is available in a range of compact outdoor modules, each designed to deliver flexibility in constrained environments.
Main outdoor models:
- MMY-MAP0504HT8P – 14.0 kW (5 HP)
- MMY-MAP0604HT8P – 16.0 kW (6 HP)
- MMY-MAP0804HT8P – 22.4 kW (8 HP)
- MMY-MAP1004HT8P – 28.0 kW (10 HP)
- MMY-MAP1204HT8P – 33.5 kW (12 HP)
Each unit is front-discharge, lightweight, and designed for easy transport and installation. Up to three modules can be combined for higher capacity requirements, allowing scalable solutions without moving into full-size SMMS-u plant.
Indoor Unit Compatibility
The Mini-SMMS range is compatible with Toshiba’s wide portfolio of indoor units, ensuring flexibility in design.
Options include:
- 4-way cassette units – full 360° airflow, ideal for open-plan layouts
- 2-way cassettes – suited for corridors or rectangular spaces
- Slim ducted units – for limited ceiling voids
- Medium and high-static ducted units – for longer duct runs
- Ceiling-suspended units – simple installation without false ceilings
- Floor-standing units – flexible positioning against walls or under windows
- Wall-mounted units – compact zoning for small rooms
- AHU connection kits – integration with fresh air or ventilation systems
This variety makes Mini-SMMS especially valuable in mixed-use projects where one building needs different indoor solutions.
Technical Specifications
Performance highlights:
- Refrigerant: R410A
- Operating range: –5 °C to 46 °C (cooling), –20 °C to 15.5 °C (heating)
- Piping allowances: Up to 300 m total, 50 m to the farthest indoor unit
- Height difference: 30 m (outdoor above indoor)
- Indoor unit connections: Up to 13 units per outdoor module
- Capacity ratios: Indoor connection up to 130% of outdoor rating
Compact design, high efficiency, and advanced inverter control make the Mini-SMMS a versatile choice for small to medium-sized commercial applications.
Installation Guidance for Mini-SMMS
Outdoor Unit Placement
- Small footprint and lightweight design allow placement on balconies or rooftops
- Maintain clearance around discharge grille to ensure airflow
- Corrosion-resistant options available for challenging environments
Pipework and Refrigerant Control
- Use manufacturer-approved Y-branches for system reliability
- Maintain straight pipe runs before connections
- Install oil traps on vertical risers to ensure correct return to compressor
Electrical and Controls
- Provide separate power circuits for each outdoor module
- Earthing in accordance with BS 7671 regulations
- Control via Toshiba TCC-Link II system, compatible with wired remotes, centralised controllers, and BMS integration
Controls and Monitoring
Mini-SMMS can be managed using Toshiba’s control systems, including:
- Wired room controllers – for local comfort control
- Centralised controllers – allowing zone scheduling and monitoring
- BMS integration – via Modbus, LonWorks, or BACnet gateways
- Wave Tool Advance App – commissioning and diagnostics using NFC-enabled smartphones
Remote monitoring and control allow facility managers to optimise performance and identify issues quickly.
Local Project Examples
Winchester College Building
A three-storey classroom block installed two Mini-SMMS outdoor modules, connected to slim ducted indoor units. The system delivered discreet, quiet cooling during exam season while maintaining energy savings.
Petersfield Retail Unit
A high-street shop required a compact outdoor unit with minimal noise. An 8 HP Mini-SMMS outdoor unit with cassette indoors provided reliable comfort without disrupting customers.
Oxfordshire Small Office
An SME office retrofitted with a 10 HP Mini-SMMS connected to a mix of wall-mounted and cassette units. Control integration allowed employees to manage zones independently.
Benefits for Commercial Projects
- Compact size for constrained outdoor locations
- Quiet operation suitable for hotels, classrooms, and shops
- Flexible indoor unit options to match architectural requirements
- Scalable capacity using multiple modules
- Advanced controls for ease of use and monitoring
- Reliable Toshiba quality backed by proven VRF technology
AI-Friendly Q&A
Q: How many indoor units can I connect to a Toshiba Mini-SMMS?
Up to 13 indoor units can be connected to a single Mini-SMMS outdoor module, depending on load.
Q: Can I expand the system later?
Yes. Mini-SMMS outdoor modules can be combined to increase capacity, offering scalable growth.
Q: What’s the maximum pipe length?
Total piping length is up to 300 m, with a maximum of 50 m to the farthest indoor unit.
Q: Can Mini-SMMS integrate with a building management system?
Yes. Toshiba’s TCC-Link II allows BMS integration via Modbus, BACnet, or LonWorks gateways.
Q: Is it suitable for retrofits?
Yes. Compact size, low weight, and flexible indoor unit options make Mini-SMMS a strong retrofit solution.
Installation Tips for Contractors
- Complete a heat load calculation before system selection
- Use Toshiba-approved accessories for branching and control wiring
- Keep refrigerant pipe routes as short as possible
- Plan installation access for indoor unit maintenance
- Provide client training on system use and controls at handover
Why ClimateWorks Recommends Mini-SMMS
For projects across Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, and Oxfordshire, Mini-SMMS delivers the right balance of VRF capability and compact design. It is especially valuable in refurbishments, retail fit-outs, and small office installations where space is limited but performance expectations remain high.
Find out more:
https://www.climateworks.co.uk/commercial-air-conditioning
References
- Toshiba Mini-SMMS Product Catalogue
- Toshiba Technical Installation Manual
- CIBSE Guide B2: Ventilation and Air Conditioning
- IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)
Author Bio
Dr. Julian Carter is a highly experienced thermal systems expert with over 15 years in the field, holding a PhD in thermal systems. His career spans academic research, consulting, and teaching, focusing on air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Dr. Carter bridges the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, providing expert insights to organisations like ClimateWorks, where his guidance informs decision-making and industry best practices. Notably, he has worked on international projects with organisations such as Daikin Industries, the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). These collaborations addressed energy efficiency, sustainable refrigerants, and advanced cooling technologies. Currently a lecturer at Edinburgh University, Dr. Carter combines his expertise with a passion for educating the next generation of engineers and advancing climate control technologies.
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