You want A/C but you're not sure what you need to do next?
Things for you to check before calling us!
✅ Homeowner Air-Conditioning Checklist (UK — 2025 Edition)
1. Before You Buy
□ What do you want the system to do?
- Cooling only
- Cooling + heating (heat pump)
□ Check refrigerant type
- Prefer low-GWP refrigerants such as R32 or other new-generation options.
- Avoid older high-GWP gases that may become harder/expensive to service.
□ Confirm installer credentials
- Ask: “Are your engineers F-Gas certified for handling refrigerants?”
- Ask: "Is your company REFCOM registered?"
- Request proof if unsure.
□ Check energy efficiency
- Look for efficiency ratings (SEER/SCOP).
- Ask how much the system will cost to run per year.
□ Understand noise levels
- Ask for the indoor AND outdoor unit dB ratings.
- Compare with local planning noise limits if relevant.
□ Placement planning
- Indoor: avoid walls next to bedrooms (if noise-sensitive).
- Outdoor: check neighbour boundaries, airflow, and service access.
2. Installation Day
□ Has the installer pressure-tested the system?
□ Has the system been vacuum-tested for moisture removal?
□ Did they provide a commissioning sheet / handover pack?
□ Do you understand the controls, modes and energy-saving settings?
3. After Installation
□ Register warranty
- Some manufacturers offer 3–5 years if installed by accredited partners.
□ Test both cooling and heating modes
(Even if you bought it mainly for summer.)
□ Check for early signs of problems
- Unusual noise
- Weak airflow
- Odd smells
- Drips or leaks
4. Ongoing Care & Maintenance
□ Clean or replace filters every 2–3 months
□ Keep outdoor unit clear of plants, debris and obstructions
□ Book a professional service once a year
(Efficiency, refrigerant health, and long-term reliability)
□ Ask your engineer:
- “Is my refrigerant type likely to be affected by new UK regulations?”
- “Is there anything I should plan for in the next 2–5 years?”
Most UK homes don’t require formal leak-checks by law — but a yearly service still saves energy and avoids problems.
5. When to Consider Upgrading
□ Your system is more than 10–12 years old
□ It uses an older, high-GWP refrigerant
□ Servicing has become expensive or parts hard to source
□ You’ve improved insulation and now experience summer overheating
□ You want cheaper, cleaner heating using a heat pump
6. Comfort & Energy Tips
□ Use eco/quiet modes at night
□ Keep blinds/curtains closed on hot days to boost cooling efficiency
□ Clean filters for better air quality and lower running costs
□ Use scheduled timers to avoid unnecessary operation
□ Consider whole-room airflow (fans can help reduce AC demand)






