If you’re responsible for a building with air conditioning, you might have heard of something called a “TM44 air conditioning inspection.” But what exactly is it, and why should it matter to you?
What is a TM44 Inspection?
A TM44 inspection is a legal requirement under the Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 for buildings with large air conditioning systems. A qualified energy efficiency assessor will examine important parts of your system, such as the units, controls, and ventilation, to make sure they are working properly and meet legal standards. The goal is to identify any problems or areas for improvement, like repairs or upgrades, to help enhance the system’s performance and improve energy efficiency across the UK.
Who needs a TM44 Inspection?
If your building has an air conditioning system with a cooling capacity of over 12kW, you’ll need a TM44 inspection. This usually includes medium to large commercial buildings, like offices, shops and hotels, or public buildings like libraries and hospitals.
The rules apply whether you own or rent the building, and it’s your responsibility as the owner or manager to make sure that a TM44 air conditioning inspection is done every five years. Even if your air conditioning equipment consists of several smaller units with a combined output of more than 12kW, you need to schedule an inspection.
If you’re unsure whether your system needs a TM44 inspection, contact us and we can help you work out if it’s necessary.
Why do you need a TM44 air conditioning inspection?
There are several important reasons to have a TM44 air conditioning inspection:
Legal Requirements
One of the main reasons for a TM44 inspection is to comply with the law. Under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations, all buildings with air conditioning systems with an output of 12kW or more must be inspected regularly. Not having a valid inspection report could result in fines or other penalties.
Since 6 April 2012, all TM44 air conditioning inspection reports for air-conditioning systems in England and Wales must be logged on the government Energy Performance of Buildings Register, overseen by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC). After an inspection, the accredited energy assessor is responsible for uploading the report and air conditioning inspection certificate to the government database so records are centrally stored and easily accessible for compliance checks.
Energy Efficiency
A TM44 inspection report will highlight any areas where energy is being wasted and suggest changes to the system. A more efficient system uses less energy, which means lower running costs. It will also reduce your building’s carbon emissions, contributing to a greener future.
Signs That You Need a TM44 Inspection
Not sure if you need a TM44 inspection? Here are some signs that it might be time to get one:
1. The Age and Size of Your Air Conditioning System
If your air conditioning system is over 5 years old and has a large cooling capacity, it’s likely time for an inspection.
2. The Type and Use of Your Building
Commercial and domestic properties with large air conditioning systems will need this inspection. If your building is heavily used or has high energy demands, this can also mean you’ll need more frequent inspections.
3. Past Inspection Records and Reports
If you can’t remember the last time your system was inspected or if it’s been more than 5 years, it’s probably time to arrange an inspection. Reviewing past TM44 reports can also help you see if there are any issues that need to be rechecked or if the system has been updated since the last inspection.
How to Arrange a TM44 Inspection
Arranging a TM44 inspection is straightforward when you know the process:
1. Find a Qualified Inspector
The first step is to find a qualified and CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) licensed inspector who is experienced in carrying out TM44 inspections. This safeguards that the inspector has the right skills and knowledge to do a thorough and accurate inspection.
2. Prepare for the Inspection
Before the assessor arrives, get all of your documents together, such as previous inspection reports, maintenance records, and details of the air conditioning system. You’ll also need to provide access to the system so that the assessor can check all necessary areas. This might involve clearing any obstacles around the units or arranging for someone to be on-site to assist.
3. What to Expect During and After the Inspection
During the inspection, the assessor will check various parts of your air conditioning system, including the units, controls, and any related equipment. They will also review the overall energy efficiency and look for any potential problems or areas that could be improved. After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining what they’ve found, including any recommendations for repairs or upgrades to improve efficiency and compliance.
Let GLP Handle Your TM44 Air Conditioning Inspection
At GLP, we make TM44 air conditioning inspections simple and stress-free. We work with a network of fully qualified and accredited assessors who will sort everything from scheduling the inspection at a convenient time to providing a detailed report with practical recommendations.
We’re here to help you stay within the law, save on energy bills, and keep the people in your building comfortable.
Let us coordinate your TM44 inspection for you, so you can focus on your business. Contact us today to get booked in.
FAQS
How Often Do I Need a TM44 Inspection?
For systems with a cooling capacity of over 12kW, you should get a TM44 air conditioning inspection every five years. Staying on schedule is important to avoid penalties and ensure your system continues running efficiently.
Can you do a TM44 Inspection during business hours?
Yes, inspections can usually be done during business hours. We’ll work with you to find a time that causes the least disruption to your daily operations.
How Much Does a TM44 Inspection Cost?
The cost of a TM44 inspection varies depending on the size and complexity of your system and building. Contact us for a quote, and we’ll provide a competitive price.
Do I Need an Assessor, Or Can I Do a TM44 Inspection Myself?
A TM44 inspection must be done by a qualified and accredited assessor. It’s not something you can do yourself because it requires specific knowledge and expertise to meet the legal requirements, as well as access to the Energy Performance of Buildings Register.
What happens if I forget to get a TM44 Inspection done?
If you don’t arrange a TM44 inspection for your air conditioning system, you could face fines of up to £300 and more penalties if you don’t comply quickly. You could also end up with higher energy bills and more wear and tear on the equipment.
Ignoring TM44 regulations isn’t just breaking the rules—it’s against the law. Local authorities can take action against building owners or managers who don’t ensure the required inspections are done. If you skip the necessary TM44 survey and assessment, you might even face legal trouble.
Does a New Air Conditioning System Need a TM44 Inspection?
A new air conditioning system doesn’t need a TM44 inspection for the first five years after it is installed.