What is a TM44 inspection? Air conditioning checks explained

An air conditioning system won’t stay brand new forever. It’s important to regularly get an air conditioning inspection or an air conditioning performance survey from a qualified engineer as recommended by your system’s manufacturer. Inspections are important for a number of reasons, many of which we’ll cover in this guide.

We’ll explain how a TM44 inspection works and what to expect, as well as how to get an air conditioning check for your system.

What is a TM44 inspection?

If your property has an air conditioning system over 12kW, then by law, you must have a TM44 regulations inspection. The law was passed in 2011 and to comply with it, you’ll have to ensure that an energy assessor carries out a thorough inspection of your air conditioning units. The review will include checks of a number of things and is a vital part in the safety and efficiency of your entire system.

What happens during an inspection?

The energy assessor will go through a number of things during the inspection:

• The efficiency of the system
• A sizing review
• Advice on future improvements
• Replacement advice if needed

The assessor will firstly take a look at each piece of equipment and their controls thoroughly. As there are many different types of system, the assessor may request any documentation accompanying the system for assistance.

You’ll be told if your system is a suitable size to be energy efficient in your environment and the assessor will share any pieces of advice and guidance to help you care for your system further. For outdoor units, it’s important you make sure there is easy access for the assessor.

Some parts of more complex systems may not be possible to look into with a general inspection, but as a guide, here’s what your assessor should be able to look at during their inspection:

• Air flow rate
• Set temperatures of the system
• Time periods of these temperatures
• The location of control sensors

What is in the report?

When the TM44 inspection is complete, you’ll usually receive a report detailing the findings with any areas for improvement. This may involve cleaning filters for example, or even recommendations for component replacements. You should take these recommendations on board to ensure your system continues to run effectively and efficiently at all times. These can include:

• Any faults that were identified in the system
• Adequacy of equipment
• Suggestions for improvement of installed controls and control settings

The report should also mention the following:

• The name of the assessor
• The address of the building holding the air conditioning system
• The date of the inspection

How often should I have a TM44 inspection?

Inspection reports will be valid for around five years. After this time period, you’ll need to schedule in another TM44 inspection to assess any changes.

Why are air conditioning inspections essential?

Improving the energy efficiency of building wherever possible is an essential requirement. The main reason air conditioning checks are recommended is that they can identify current or potential air con problems with your system’s functionality. Unidentified problems can lead to more serious issues, such as a malfunction, leak or even a complete break down of your air conditioning system.

As we’ve identified, energy inspections for air conditioning systems are a legal requirement, but as well as this, they are also the perfect opportunity for you to look after your system and ensure it is running as smoothly as possible. If your system is older, for example, you may find that there are a few problems that need addressing as soon as possible. For newer systems, you’ll get peace of mind that everything is working as it should be.

For occupants in a household or workers of a business, it’s essential that the cool air coming from your system is clean and that you provide a healthy, comfortable environment for those inside. If you don’t take the necessary precautions, you could be putting the health of yourself and other people at risk.

What happens if I don’t comply with the inspection?

The inspection is an important part of owning an air conditioning system. Non-compliance with this law can result in a financial penalty for yourself, or a landlord or tenant depending on the circumstances. Failing to comply can also result in solicitor hold ups in property transactions when requesting documentation.

• Failure of having an air conditioning TM44 report will result in a £300 fine.
• If you fail to present a copy of a report when requested, there will be a £200 fine.

If a penalty is given, you can request a review. If you believe the outcome of this isn’t satisfactory, you’ll then have 28 days to appeal to a county court. Of course, to avoid all this, you should always ensure you have your inspection completed and your report documented at all times.

Free air conditioning check.

Some companies offer a free air conditioning check. They’ll run through everything you need to ensure your system is in top condition. If you’re opting for a free check, make sure the company you use is reliable and take a look at any reviews where you can. A home air conditioning system review could highlight some basic problems, but may not give you an in-depth inspection.   

Even if you choose to have a free check, you’ll still need to have a TM44 inspection. An inspection by an energy assessor is a legal requirement.

Schedule a TM44 inspection for your air conditioning system.

To comply with today’s laws, it’s always safer to ensure you keep on top of your property or home air conditioning inspections. It’s a great way to ensure your system stays efficient and works effectively for as long as possible. As your system is an investment, it’s even more important to keep on top of things to ensure that there is no room for breakages or failure.  

If you’re in need of a new air conditioning system or you need a replacement for your old, temperamental system, you can talk to one of our expert engineers. Drop us a message using our live chat or alternatively, you can use our ‘Find An A/C System’ tool for personalised recommendations.