TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections: Regulations Explained
If you have an industrial air conditioning unit in your building, then you must have a clear understanding of your legal responsibilities when it comes to TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections. You are most likely aware that the regulations exist, but do you know when your inspection is due and what is actually expected of you when it comes to maintaining and servicing your unit? To help you understand your legal responsibilities, we’ve put together a useful guide on everything you need to know about TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections.
When is a TM44 Inspection required?
In January 2011, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) introduced TM44 regulations relating to the inspection of air conditioning systems. The current regulations state that any air conditioning unit with a cooling output of more than 12kw must be inspected by an accredited energy assessor every five years after the initial installation. The regulations also state that building owners or managers must inspect air conditioning systems on a regular basis. You will still be required to arrange a TM44 inspection if you have multiple units that are less than 12kw. For example, you must have your systems inspected every five years if you have three small air conditioning units giving out 5kw each. Basically, a TM44 inspection is required if your units give out a combined output of 12kw or more.
Why is an inspection important?
One of the main reasons why a TM44 inspection is so important is because it helps to ensure that your air conditioning unit is running in the most efficiently. Concerns for our environment are growing and organisations have a responsibility to make their business operations and processes as sustainable as possible. Having your air conditioning unit inspected regularly will help to reduce harmful emissions and lower air pollution. It should also boost the green reputation of your company and help you establish credibility with your customers, clients and employees. Along with the environmental benefits, having your unit serviced and maintained can also reduce your business overheads by cutting your energy usage. On top of this, having a TM44 inspection will help your company avoid fines and damage to its reputation that could result from a failure to comply with the regulations.
What does the inspection involve?
A TM44 inspection will involve an energy assessor visiting your business premises to inspect the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. The assessor must have received the correct training and be completely independent to ensure a fair and accurate assessment. The assessor will start by examining your air conditioning unit and its controls. They will then provide you with recommendations on ways to improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. This may involve free or low-cost solutions, as well as replacements or alternatives. You will be expected to carry out any recommended energy improvements that are reasonable and within your control. The TM44 inspection guidance aims to make your air conditioning unit more energy-efficient, whilst also improving its performance and reducing operational costs.
What happens if I fail to arrange an inspection?
If you fail to comply with the legislation, then you will face a fine of £300 per offence according to GOV.UK. This fine will be applied to each individual building and unit that is in breach of the rules. There is an additional fee of £200 that must be paid if you fail to arrange a TM44 inspection within seven days of the notice. These fines can be repeated on a weekly or monthly basis until you have a professional TM44 inspection carried out. All Air Conditioning Inspection Reports are logged on the central Landmark Registry Government database. This means that enforcement officers can simply log on and instantly check whether a commercial premise is compliant with the regulations.
Book your inspection today!
Having a TM44 inspection is a legal requirement and you must make sure that you comply with the regulations relating to air conditioning units. A TM44 inspection will ensure that your system is running efficiently and should save you money on your business energy bills in the long run. Avoid hefty fines and potential damage to your company’s reputation by making sure that your TM44 inspection is up to date. Get in touch today for more information.
