EPBD AC Inspections
Background
Article 9 of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) (2). They require regular inspection of all air conditioning systems. The EPB Regulations define an ‘air-conditioning system’ as:
Article 9 of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) (2). They require regular inspection of all air conditioning systems. The EPB Regulations define an ‘air-conditioning system’ as:
It excludes mechanical ventilation systems that provide no mechanical cooling and any components that are only intended to provide heating that might be contained in the systems.
The inspection is primarily based on visual observations and non-invasive measurements where there are opportunities for these to be readily undertaken.
The aim of the inspection
The primary aim of the inspection is to give building owners and operators information about the performance of their buildings and plant, and to identify opportunities to save energy and cut operating costs.
The inspection should as far as possible be carried out by making visual observations of the plant and other visual indicators such as refrigerant sight glasses, pressure, temperature or filter gauges, although where these are not available the inspector may be able to take some test readings.
Health and Safety Issues
Under the European Union’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) inspections of all air-conditioning systems with a total cooling capacity over 12kWr are required at least every five years. The aim is to give building owners and operators information about the performance of their buildings’ air-conditioning systems and to identify options to save energy and reduce operating costs.
From January 2009, it was made illegal to sell or let any commercial property without a current, valid air-conditioning inspection report covering all installed, in-scope equipment, including centralised systems, individual splits, multi-splits and heat pumps. By January 2009, all systems over 250kWr must have been inspected. A first inspection of any new system over 12kWr installed since January 2008 is required within the next five years, with all other systems over 12kWr must be inspected by January 2011. Subsequent inspections must then be commissioned every five years.
As far as possible, inspections are done by observation of the systems and other external factors. When these are not available, additional test readings may be needed. Finally, a report is produced that includes an assessment of the efficiency of the system, a review of the load sizing, and general advice to improve overall energy performance.
Ceilite has trained the relevant personnel, are able to carry out this service for you as required and would welcome your enquiry.
For more information click EPBD AC Inspections.