Air Conditioning Regulations

You might be wondering whether the installation of an air conditioning unit is a good idea with the great British weather, but more people than ever before are investing in these systems as a way to keep their home cool and comfortable as the temperatures rise. We have our heating systems in the winter but in the summer we often spend days uncomfortably hot, not sleeping, finding it difficult to concentrate or throwing open the doors and windows to let in some air which can often make the house even hotter.

Air conditioning units are common in retail units and offices, but did you know that they are a great solution for your home or apartment too? The advances in technology and installation techniques mean that these systems are now suitable for many different types of residential property and the installation process isn’t as difficult as you might think. Plus, there are the benefits of an air conditioning unit. Better sleep, improved security and greater comfort in the summer, whether you are watching tv or working out in your home gym.

That said, there are various regulations that you need to be aware of to ensure that your system is safe to use and it is installed in the right way. Luckily you have us on your side so we can help you navigate the complicated regulatory landscape and make everything super easy.

Whatever system you would like to install in your home, whether it’s a simple air conditioning solution for a single room or a more complex, multi-room unit, it’s important that they comply with the relevant regulations and they are installed by a skilled and experienced technician.

Air conditioning regulations are there to protect consumers and ensure that your home is safe. If you are looking to have an air conditioning unit installed in your home, you may be wondering what regulations you have to comply with and whether there are any standards that must be met for their installation. The regulations are there for greater comfort and safety and to prevent the systems from becoming a danger to you or anyone in your household.

Scheduled Statutory Inspections

In refrigerated equipment, there is something called F gases. These are fluorinated gases often found in an air conditioning system. Some of these gases can present serious hazards to the environment and are a main contributor to global warming. Therefore, any equipment that uses these gases must be properly inspected and maintained. There are three regulations that apply to the use of F gases:

  • Only qualified professionals are permitted to maintain and repair these systems.
  • The relevant precautions must be taken to prevent any leakage.
  • If a leak is identified, this must be repaired as soon as possible.
    Systems that are installed into larger homes must have regular tests and detailed records kept of what was tested and any outcome or remedial action that was taken.

If you are a building manager who would like to install air conditioning in your residential flats or other forms of accommodation you must ensure that the system is fully compliant with UK regulations and standards. Systems must be legally compliant and properly inspected as instructed.

A paper checklist and a pen next to a paper cutout of a house on a wooden surface.

The EPC

An EPC or Energy Performance Certificate will determine the energy efficiency rating of a piece of equipment. It is always recommended that you choose an air conditioning unit with a rating of ‘A’. This will ensure that your electricity consumption is minimised and boosts your contribution to a cleaner, greener environment. The regulations surrounding EPCs mean that air conditioning units must be inspected. This will maximise the operational efficiency of the unit while reducing the amount of energy that the unit consumes. If you have an older style system, these will be less efficient than the newer versions which can also be more cost-effective too.

Energy certificates with efficiency ratings, rolled architectural blueprints, and floor plans on a flat surface.

Planning Permissions

If you wish to install an air conditioning unit in an apartment or listed building you will almost certainly need to obtain planning permission. Systems that feature a condenser box on an outside wall or alterations to the exterior of a building will require planning permission before being installed. Working with a good air conditioning business is essential for this who can help guide you through the process or even provide solutions where you don’t need planning permission.

Close-up of architectural blueprints with a purple stamp tool positioned on top.

Ultimately, air conditioning regulations are in place to keep you safe. With the right care and suitable inspections, air conditioning systems can be a huge benefit to your home.

If you would like to explore more about an air conditioning installation or you want to talk to one of our team, please do not hesitate to call, email or fill out our online contact form and we will be happy to answer any queries that you may have.