The rules and regulations surrounding mechanical services – and air conditioning installation and maintenance in particular – can be a source of confusion for landlords and building owners. Finding a knowledgeable partner in the industry is the best way to avoid problems, as they can advise on what is needed for your unique system. However, as a designated ‘responsible person’, you’ll also want to understand your obligations.
We’re often asked about the inspections required by certain pieces of legislation, specifically the difference between TM44 inspections and meeting F-Gas regulations. Although both are vital to running an air conditioning system, they have a very different focus and frequency of inspection.
F-Gas Regulations
Since July 2007, regulation EC No 842/2006 has stipulated rules for systems containing more than 3kg of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs, or F-Gases). These rules are mainly intended to prevent leaks, as the gases can have a powerful greenhouse effect.
The most damaging F-Gases will be phased out over the next few years, but certified personnel will still be required for regular checks. Operators are required to take all ‘technically feasible’ steps to prevent leakage and repair leakage.
The volume of refrigerant in your system determines how often tests must be carried out, with annual tests the absolute minimum. Frequency is determined as follows:
- 3kg to 30kg: every 12 months;
- 30kg to 300kg: every six months, or every 12 months if a leak detection system is installed;
- 300kg or more: every six months. Technically the rules stipulate every three months, but leak detection systems are mandatory at this level, and these systems halve the required frequency.
If a leak is identified, the system must be rechecked within a month of the repair.
TM44 Inspections
By contrast, TM44 inspections must be carried out only every five years. They deal with performance of air conditioning systems more generally, with a particular focus on energy efficiency.
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive requires inspections and TM44 refers to the guidance created for them, although the recommendations are not legally binding. Landlords and building owners without an up-to-date air conditioning inspection report can be fined £300.
Checks include:
- detailed looks at refrigeration and air moving equipment;
- verification that the system is a suitable size for the space it covers;
- examinations of the inside of ducts and units;
- assessment of the controls and certain smaller components.
Building owners, managers and landlords must help with safe access. While 361 Servicing engineers are experts in avoiding disruption, it is sometimes best to arrange inspections outside of working hours as the air conditioning system will need to be turned off for safety.
TM44 inspections won’t include detailed checks for unsafe aspects of the installation or the operation of the system, though these are often included by prior arrangement as part of the same visit.
Records and Reports
Detailed records of inspections are important because competent authorities can request proof the necessary checks have been carried out, and impose fines if these are not produced.
To comply with the F-Gas regulations, systems with more than 3kg of HFC refrigerant must have records showing the type and quantity of refrigerant, along with details and dates of checks and changes. Inspection personnel must have a handling qualification to perform tests, gas recovery, installation or maintenance and their details must also be noted.
After a TM44 inspection, a report must include key information such as the name of the assessor and the accreditation scheme to which they belong. You can also expect details of:
- the system’s efficiency;
- faults and suggested actions;
- equipment maintenance levels;
- controls and settings;
- the size of the installed system in relation to the cooling load;
- key recommendations and suggestions for improvement in each area.
Although the recommendations are not binding, resolving the issues identified in a TM44 report can make a significant difference to the efficiency – and therefore the running cost – of your air conditioning system. Even simple measures can be implemented at low cost, and a reputable mechanical services partner can help you make the most of the recommendations from any air conditioning inspection or report.
