Air Con FAQs
Got a question? Don’t worry, Judge Climate Solutions have all the answers…
We fully appreciate that deciding upon the possibility of installation an air conditioning / climate control solution can be a difficult decision to make. especially when there are so many products out there, along with conflicting advice and suggestions to consider. Having the luxury of comfortable cool or warm air when you want it is a great luxury to have (especially with our unreliable outside temperatures) – but often we’re all looking for answers to questions to help us make the right decision and to give us that peace of mind.
That’s why we decided to list some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) from customers along with answers that we hope you’ll find helpful. And don’t worry – if you’re looking to an answer that we don’t have listed – just ask us.
RefCom (short for “Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Compliance”) is a UK-based certification scheme that ensures companies and individuals working with refrigerants in air conditioning, refrigeration, and heat pump systems comply with regulations. The primary focus of RefCom is to ensure proper handling, management, and disposal of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) and ozone-depleting substances (ODS), which are commonly used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Key aspects of RefCom in relation to air conditioning units include:
Certification
Companies and individuals must be certified by RefCom to legally work with F-gases. This certification verifies that they have the necessary skills, equipment, and procedures in place to handle refrigerants safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.
Environmental Compliance
RefCom ensures that businesses comply with the F-Gas Regulation (EU Regulation No 517/2014) and other relevant laws. This includes preventing the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere, proper record-keeping of refrigerant use, and ensuring that only certified personnel handle these substances.
Training and Standards
RefCom provides guidelines and training to ensure that technicians and companies follow best practices in the installation, maintenance, and disposal of air conditioning units. This helps reduce the environmental impact of these systems.
Auditing and Inspections
RefCom-certified companies are subject to regular audits and inspections to ensure ongoing compliance with regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, or loss of certification.
Overall, RefCom plays a crucial role in promoting environmental responsibility within the air conditioning and refrigeration industry, helping to reduce the impact of harmful refrigerants on the environment.
Full details and further reading can be sourced at:
www.refcom.org.uk
This is a complex question to address, as running an air conditioner can be costly, particularly if your home is poorly insulated, the system is incorrectly sized, not well-maintained, or if you’re on a high energy tariff. However, air conditioners are highly efficient at both cooling and heating, and with the right approach, they don’t have to be a burden on your finances. Following the tips provided on our air conditioning running costs can help you manage overall costs effectively.
Judge Climate Solutions offers AC services tailored to fit any budget or application. For expert advice on installation, maintenance, or emergency repair of an AC system in your home, please reach out to our specialist team to discuss.
To briefly summarise though…
To lower your air conditioning costs, ensure your home is well-insulated, your system is correctly sized for your space, and regular maintenance is performed. Additionally, consider using a programmable thermostat to manage temperatures efficiently and avoid setting your system to extreme temperatures.
To improve your air conditioner’s efficiency
Regularly clean or replace filters, ensure vents are not obstructed, seal any leaks in your ductwork, and use a programmable thermostat. Scheduling annual maintenance is also key to keeping your system running efficiently.
Yes you can… by connecting your air conditioner to your home Wi-Fi network, you can easily control your thermostat remotely, set temperature schedules, and monitor your energy usage. Simply download the app associated with your AC manufacturer to your smartphone, or use voice control through Alexa or Google Home.
We recommended to service your air conditioning system at least once a year to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, prolongs the lifespan of your system, and can improve energy efficiency.
If your air conditioner is blowing warm air, it could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning compressor. It’s best to have a professional technician diagnose and resolve the issue.
Common signs that your air conditioner may need repair include unusual noises, weak airflow, uneven cooling, frequent cycling on and off, and higher energy bills. If you notice any of these issues, it’s advisable to have a professional inspect your system.
The size of the air conditioner you need depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the number of rooms, ceiling height, insulation quality, and local climate. A professional can perform a load calculation to determine the right size for your specific needs.
While some small, portable units can be installed by homeowners, it’s recommended to have a professional install a central or split-system air conditioner. Proper installation is crucial for the system’s efficiency, safety, and longevity.
It’s normal for an air conditioner to run longer during extremely hot weather, but if it’s running constantly, it could be a sign of a problem, such as an undersized system, poor insulation, or a dirty filter. Have a professional assess the situation to avoid unnecessary wear and higher energy costs.
For optimal comfort and energy efficiency, it’s recommended to set your air conditioner to 24-26°C (75-78°F) during the summer. You can adjust it based on personal preference and outside temperatures but avoid extreme settings to prevent overworking your system.
The average lifespan of an air conditioning system is 10-15 years, though this can vary depending on the type of system, frequency of use, and how well it’s maintained. Regular servicing can help extend the life of your unit.
A programmable thermostat allows you to set temperature schedules, automatically adjusting your air conditioner’s output based on your routine. This avoids unnecessary cooling or heating, which can reduce energy consumption and lower your bills.
Water leakage can be caused by a blocked drain pipe, a dirty air filter, or low refrigerant levels. It’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent water damage and further complications.
Contact Judge Climate Solutions today and one of our fully qualified and experienced air conditioning technicians will help diagnose and fix the problem.
There’s zero-rate VAT for the installation on air conditioning units!
As of April 1, 2022, the UK government has charged 0% VAT on the installation of domestic air conditioning units and air source heat pumps that can both heat and cool homes. This is part of the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Spring Statement, which aims to reduce energy bills, carbon emissions, and reliance on imported energy. The 0% VAT rate is only valid for installations, not the purchase of the equipment, and it will remain in place until March 2027.
For more information on 0% VAT air conditioning installations and what’s involved, please contact the team at Judge Climate Solutions
or visit: www.gov.uk
Have a question regarding air conditioning?
Just ask us…
Helpful pages to find out more on air conditioning
Air Conditioning & Climate Control for Homes and Businesses in Retford
Brands. We only use top quality brands from leading manufacturers
Servicing & Maintenance Contacts for all your air conditioning needs
