Does your building in the UK use air conditioning systems? If so, there’s a good chance they contain fluorinated gases (F-gases). These are powerful greenhouse gases with a global warming potential significantly higher than carbon dioxide.
F-gases are commonly used in air conditioning systems due to their effective cooling properties. They’ve replaced ozone-depleting substances, which have been largely banned in the UK, except for a few limited-use scenarios. However, because F-gases are potent greenhouse gases, their use and emissions must be carefully controlled.
That’s where F-gas inspections come in.
What are F-Gas Inspections?
F-gas inspections are a legal requirement under new regulations, EC 517/2014, which was first introduced in 2014. These inspections apply to many commercial buildings and involve routine checks for leaks in systems such as air conditioning, stationary refrigeration, and heat pump (SRACHP) equipment. The regulations aim to reduce emissions and ensure that F-gas systems are properly maintained and operated.
F-Gas Inspections typically include:
- Checking for refrigerant leaks
- Ensuring air conditioning units are properly maintained
- Verifying that the systems comply with environmental regulations
At K2 Heating and Cooling Solutions, our process of F-Gas inspections involves minimal disruption & fuss while ensuring your business stays compliant, safe, and eco-conscious.
F-Gas compliance Highlights:
- F-gas regulations focus on the reduction of HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons)
- The framework also prioritises minimising the risk of emissions
- Proper maintenance of air conditioning and refrigeration systems is essential
- Regular leak checks and timely repairs are mandatory for systems using F-gases
Do you need an F-Gas Inspection?
If your air conditioning system contains HFCs, you may be legally required to have it inspected for leaks at regular intervals.
F-Gas Inspection Frequency
The frequency will depend on two main factors:
- What quantity of F-gas is present in the equipment?
- What is the potential of the F-gas to contribute to global warming?
As per UK government guidance, leak checks are mandatory based on the CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e) of F-gases in your air conditioning system:
- 5 to <50 tCO₂e: At least once every 12 months
- 50 to <500 tCO₂e: At least once every 6 months
- 500 tCO₂e or more: At least every 3 months (if contained in electrical switchgear or organic Rankine cycles installed before 1 January 2017)
- 500 tCO₂e or more: With automatic leak detection (for all equipment other than electrical switchgear and organic Rankine cycles installed before 1 January 2017)
Who is responsible for F-gas inspections?
Owners and operators of equipment containing F-gases must ensure inspections are carried out according to the required frequency. If you miss a check, you could face fines, and your property may be flagged in compliance records.
If you’re unsure whether your AC requires an F-gas inspection, consult with our team of F-Gas certified engineers. We can assess your system and advise you with zero pressure or obligation.
Why K2 Heating and Cooling Solutions for Air Conditioning Inspection?
Air conditioning inspections, including F-gas inspections, are one of our core areas of expertise. Our F-gas engineers don’t just show up to tick boxes, they come equipped with a deep understanding of current F-Gas regulations and a strong commitment to a cleaner, greener environment. In other words, we prioritise compliance and make sure our work aligns fully with legal requirements.
Our USPs:
- Trusted by clients who stick with us: We’ve built a solid reputation by delivering results. Our inspections are stress-free and designed to keep both you and the environment safe.
- Engineers who know the regs and don’t miss a thing: All our engineers hold F-gas certification, and we provide ongoing training to keep them updated with the latest F-gas regulations.
- Clear reports and guidance, so you’re always audit-ready: We don’t believe in jargon or fluff. Our reports are straightforward, practical, and focused on making compliance easy to understand and manage.
- Fast turnaround and fair pricing — no upselling, no fluff: Transparency is key in everything we do, including pricing. We charge based on your actual requirements — nothing more.
What’s included in our F-Gas Inspection?
An F-Gas inspection with K2 goes beyond basic checks. We offer comprehensive services to keep your system compliant, efficient, and worry-free.
Our air conditioning inspection services include:
- Leak check and system assessment: We thoroughly inspect all accessible components of your air conditioning system for HFC refrigerant leaks and assess overall system integrity.
- Full inspection report with findings and recommendations: Each inspection includes a clear, detailed report outlining what we found and any recommended actions needed to maintain compliance.
- Compliance certificate and record assistance: We provide all necessary documentation to support your compliance file, backed by accurate records with legal validation.
- Optional servicing and follow-up inspections: Every inspection also provides an opportunity to analyse the requirement for maintenance, repairs, or additional action to ensure your system runs safely and sustainably.
Who needs to have F-Gas inspections?
Commercial properties using stationary air-conditioning equipment must undergo regular inspections. Owners are legally responsible for ensuring leak checks are carried out, not the end-users.
Our inspections are designed for:
- Businesses with air conditioning systems that operate with F-gases, from small office setups to large multi-unit systems.
- Facilities managers, landlords, and property developers need inspections to keep their buildings compliant and tenants comfortable.
Sectors we serve:
- Retail
- Hospitality
- Commercial office spaces
- Manufacturing and industrial sites
Book Your F-Gas Inspection Today with K2. Stay Compliant, Stay Covered.
If you think F-gas compliance is optional, think again. It’s not a choice; it’s the law. K2 is a trusted partner with full F-gas certification and a team of certified engineers offering straightforward, affordable services.
For quick, compliant, and transparent air conditioning inspections, call us today or book online to keep your air conditioning systems safe, legal, and leak-free.
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