TM44 Inspections in Scotland: Your Guide to Air Conditioning Inspections
Scotland’s commitment to energy efficiency is reflected in its stringent guidelines surrounding air conditioning system inspections, better known as TM44 inspections. These inspections, originating from Articles 15 & 16 of the updated Directive 2010/31/EU, have been incorporated into Scottish law via regulation 17 of the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004.
Under Scottish TM44 legislation, there’s a pressing need for such systems to be inspected, a process that’s comprehensively outlined in Section 0 of the BSD Technical Handbooks. The statutory requirement for air conditioning inspections in Scotland became compulsory from 1 May 2007, following a phased introduction. This mandate affected all systems with an effective output of 250 kW or more, requiring them to be inspected by 4 January 2011, and all other systems with an effective output of 12 kW or more to complete their inaugural inspection by 4 January 2013.
Currently, every building in Scotland with an air conditioning system that has an effective rating of 12 kW or more should have completed their first TM44 inspection. Non-compliance could result in an enforcement notice and legal action under section 26 of the Building (Scotland) Act 2003.
Understanding TM44 Scotland Inspections
A TM44 inspection in Scotland involves a comprehensive evaluation of the efficiency and sizing of your air conditioning system relative to the cooling requirements of the building. The inspection’s primary objective is to ensure efficient operation of the system and improve the building’s energy efficiency.
The inspection’s findings are compiled in a detailed report, which may propose measures to enhance the energy efficiency of the building, thereby reducing its cooling load. The report also prescribes a timeline for the next inspection (3-5 years), based on the current efficiency of the system. For complete guidelines on the inspection and reporting process, refer to the CIBSE TM44 document.
In Scotland, a building will be subject to this legislation if its individual systems, each less than 12 kW, collectively amount to 12 kW or more, and are centrally controlled.
Who Can Perform Air Conditioning Inspections in Scotland?
The Scottish Government strictly mandates that TM44 inspections can only be carried out by a member of an organisation it has formally recognised through a protocol agreement. Where can you find a company whose assessors have training, certification, and practical experience in the field? Well, look no further!
Navigating Common TM44 Scotland Queries
This table provides an approximate guide to determine if your system may exceed 12 kW based on the type and size of the area it is cooling. Remember, if in doubt, it’s best to seek professional advice.
| Area Type | Size |
|---|---|
| General office (air-conditioned) | 200 m2 |
| Office with substantial IT/electrical equipment (air-conditioned) | 100 m2 |
| Retail spaces with average display lighting | 250 m2 |
| Retail spaces with high-intensity display lighting and illuminated cabinets | 150 m2 |
If your building houses several cooling units, each less than 12kW, an inspection is required if their cumulative total exceeds 12kW and they are centrally controlled within one building or direct separated part.
The assessment should have been completed by 4 January 2013, for systems with an effective rated output of over 12 kW. The subsequent inspection is usually due 3-5 years later, depending on the system’s efficiency, as indicated in the inspection report.
Assessors focus on energy efficiency during their evaluations and offer a report highlighting cost-effective improvements for the system. The report includes details of the equipment, documents, and records inspected, system controls, advice summary, general observations, and the schedule for the next inspection.
While you’re not legally obliged to implement the recommended improvements, doing so can enhance the system’s efficiency and reduce operational costs. The TM44 Scotland inspection can also be merged with other statutory inspections and routine maintenance as necessary.
Finally, it’s recommended to store your inspection report safely, ideally alongside the services log book, to ensure easy access for future tenants, owners, or inspectors. Fast forward to today, all Scottish air conditioning systems over 12 kW should have been inspected at least once. If not, well, you’re about as popular as a haggis at a vegan festival. The Building (Scotland) Act 2003 warns of enforcement action under section 26 if you haven’t held an inspection.
