What are air conditioning inspections?

Air conditioning systems use up a lot of energy - up to 50% of a building's output in some cases. That's why the new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) specifically targets it. A 'system' includes all the equipment in a building which controls or lowers temperature -whether it's one unit or several smaller ones.

At Carbon Credentials our accredited energy assessors can do your building's inspection for you. The main aim is to:

• provide your business with information about the system's performance
• help you to identify ways to reduce your carbon emission - as well as your costs
• provide you with the inspection report you require to comply with the legislation

With Carbon Credentials showing you how, take action now to ensure your company saves money - and energy - with immediate effect.

Who needs an air conditioning inspection?

From January 2009 air conditioned buildings with an output greater than 250KW should have had their first inspection. First inspections of systems greater than 12KW must be completed by January 2011. New systems greater than 12 KW installed after January 2008 must be inspected within 5 years of being put into service.

Why is it important?

While it is partly about a tick in a box - fail to comply and you will be fined - the goal of all new green legislation is twofold: reduce your company's carbon output, which is better for the environment and save your business money.

Who is responsible for getting it done?

The person who controls the operation of the air conditioning system is responsible for making sure an inspection is done. It may be the tenant, should the building be rented out, the owner, a facilities manager or a servicing company.

What does this inspection cover?

The energy assessor wiill examine all refrigeration and air movement equipment and their controls as well as any documentation indicating how the system works or has been maintained. The energy assessor will give his/her opinion on whether the equipment is suitable for the space and also advice on how to improve performance. Access will be required to equipment in plant rooms or outside the buildings and to areas with limited access.

How and when will the inspection take place?

This will be arranged at a suitable time to your business - perhaps even outside normal working hours if that is less disruptive. The facilities manager, building manager or maintenance agent will need to accompany our assessor.

Penalties for non-compliance

Ignoring the air conditioning inspection won't make it go away. Fail to comply and your company faces strict penalties. Failure to comply will result in fines of up to £5,000, depending on your building's rateable value.

What should I do now?

Call Howard Beaumont, Business Development Manager, at Park Royal Partnership on 0203 110 2326 or contact us by email on services@parkroyal.org