Although the United Kingdom is not the warmest or most luminous location, businesses and commercial properties depend greatly on air conditioners for comfy, productive, and lively spaces. However, operating an air conditioning system involves more than switching it on and enjoying a seamlessly controlled room without a second thought.
TM44 inspections are legally mandated in the UK under the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) Regulations 2007, which were revised in 2011 and 2012. They aim for reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions from ACs. “TM44” refers to the technical report that informs business owners and managers about the energy efficiency of their AC systems.
What is a TM44 Inspection?
A TM44 inspection is an air conditioner assessment needed for all units with an output of more than 12kW. The term ‘TM44′ discusses the standard guidance regarding the energy consumption of air conditioning systems established by the EPBD. Therefore, these assessments are typically known as TM44 inspections. These inspections ensure ACs function efficiently, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.
A qualified energy assessor should conduct inspections every 5 years, starting before the system’s fifth anniversary and continuing every five years thereafter. It is ideal to schedule these inspections just before the fifth anniversary to ensure that TM44 inspections remain current and avoid gaps in the inspection timeline.
Why Are TM44 Inspections Legally Required?
Under the EPB Regulations 2007, air conditioning inspections are legally mandatory for several important reasons, including safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
Energy Efficiency: The first and foremost goal is to enhance the energy efficiency of building air conditioning systems.
Reduced Energy Consumption: TM44 inspections help identify inadequacies and recommend improvements that can lower energy consumption.
Reduced Carbon Emissions: These inspections contribute to reducing carbon emissions from air conditioning systems by improving energy efficiency.
Legal Compliance: The standard regulations mandate that these inspections be conducted on buildings with air conditioning systems having a combined cooling output of 12kW or more.
Safety: Inspections help identifying and addressing potential hazards to ensure air conditioning systems operate safely.
Cost Savings: TM44 inspections can lead to long-term cost savings by identifying inefficiencies and recommending improvements.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: Early identification of problems can prevent major breakdowns and minimise long-term maintenance costs.
Who Needs a TM44 Inspection?
In the UK, a TM44 inspection is a legal requirement for buildings with air conditioning systems who have a combined cooling output of 12kW or more. The building owner or manager bears the responsibility for ensuring compliance. It is needed by:
Commercial Buildings: If your building –whether you own or rented – has air conditioning systems equal to 12kW or more, a TM44 inspection is required.
Public Buildings: The same applies to public buildings like libraries and hospitals, where systems exceed the 12kW threshold and require a TM44 inspection.
Combined Output: A TM44 inspection is needed if total output exceeds 12kW.
What Are the Important Elements of TM44 Inspections?
A TM44 inspection is a detailed assessment of the air conditioning system of a building and is one by a certified team of pros. They will also assess its usage, servicing, and maintenance. There are multiple essential elements of the inspection:
System Assessment
The inspection thoroughly examines the system’s type, sizing, refrigerant circuit, air handling units (AHU), ductwork, design needs, and control features. It also measures the building’s cooling needs and distinguishes them from the installed system to ensure it is the right size for effective energy use.
Upkeep & Operation
The inspection also ensures that the maintenance and operation of the system is done properly. It evaluates the system’s energy efficiency and identifies areas for improvement.
Adherence to Codes
The system is evaluated to ensure it fulfils all the relevant codes and regulations. The building manager or landlord should provide a full report, including frequency and reporting to the authorities if required.
Recommendations
The TM44 inspection ends with a detailed report that provides recommendations to enhance the system’s performance and energy conversion. Suggested actions may comprise modifications, advancements, and fluctuations in functionality or maintenance methods.
What Are the Typical Issues Found During TM44 Inspections?
TM44 inspections, which assess air conditioners’ compliance with legislation, identify common issues. Comprehending these common issues is vital to maintain the system’s efficiency and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Here are some commonly faced issues during TM44 inspections:
Maintenance and System Condition
Poor Maintenance: Dirty filters, blocked coils, and lack of proper maintenance significantly impact the system’s efficacy.
Incorrect Settings/Faulty Controls: Inappropriate temperature settings or broken controls can cause inefficient operation and discomfort.
Refrigerant Leaks: Leaks in the refrigerant system decrease cooling capacity and can damage the equipment.
Insufficient Insulation: Poorly insulated ducts and pipework result in energy loss and increased operating costs.
Obsolete Systems: Older air conditioning systems may not meet modern efficiency standards.
Other Issues
Poor Installation: Poorly installed systems can lead to leakages, reduced efficiency, and safety hazards.
Old Refrigerant: Some older systems may use refrigerants like R22, which are being phased out because of ecological concerns.
Shortfalls in Programmer and Incorrect Date/Time: Incorrect date or time settings on the programmer can initiate inefficient operation.
Blockages in Filters and Grilles: Blocked filters and grilles restrict airflow and reduce system’s efficiency.
General Condition of Air Conditioning System: A general visual inspection of indoor and outdoor units can reveal signs of damage or wear and tear.
What Advice Can You Expect from the TM44 Report?
System Efficiency: The report will assess the current efficiency of your air conditioning systems and provide recommendations for improvement, potentially including low-cost or no-cost solutions.
Fault Identification and Remediation: It will identify any faults found during the inspection and offer guidance on addressing them, ensuring optimal system performance.
Maintenance and Controls: The report will evaluate the adequacy of your equipment maintenance and control settings and offer suggestions for improving efficiency.
System Sizing: It will assess whether your air conditioning system is appropriately sized for the cooling load and provide recommendations for optimising it, including replacing older, less energy-efficient, or oversized systems.
Energy Savings and Cost Reduction: The report aims to help you identify opportunities for the reduction of energy consumption and lowering operating costs by implementing the suggested improvements.
Compliance: It helps ensure compliance with relevant regulations related to air conditioning inspections and energy efficiency.
F-Gas Testing and Certification: The report may also include a review of F-Gas testing and advice on whether the certification suits the current law.
Consequences of Not Having a Valid TM44 Certificate
Local authorities are responsible for enforcing TM44 inspection requirements. Failing to have a valid TM44 certificate for air conditioning systems, which are legally required for buildings with a combined cooling output of 12kW or more, can result in multiple fines, such as:
- Initial Fine: A minimum statutory fine of £300 can be imposed for failing to have a TM44 inspection when one is due.
- Repeated Fines: This fine can recur weekly until you have a valid TM44 certificate.
- Failure to Provide Report: A further fine of £200 can be imposed for failing to provide a copy of the inspection report to an enforcement authority within 7 days of a request.
