An R22 legislative Overview

May 7, 2010 - PRLog -- As of January 1st 2010, it became illegal to use virgin HCFCs (Hydrochloroflourocarbons). The most commonly used example of this is in the maintenance and servicing of air conditioning equipment, which at one time all operated on R22. Recycled or reclaimed material is still legal and available but it is likely to become more expensive and scarce as 2015 approaches, and those who are not prepared in time will pay a premium price. By 1st January 2015, potentially earlier, a complete ban of HCFCs including reclaimed/-recycled products will be put in place.

To assist with the compulsory changes, the industry has introduced a number of interim or drop in gases as a temporary replacement solution to R22, these will be available for five years. However manufacturers of air conditioning equipment components are discussing making the parts for R22 systems available for only two to three years. The result of this decision is that many companies will go to the expense of removing R22 and replacing it with an interim gas like the commonly used R417 and will end up in a position where they are unable to have their systems repaired. Ultimately they will have to invest even more money into replacement systems.

The other more permanent solution is to replace your system with a new R410A inverted controlled system immediately as opposed to relying on an interim gas as a temporary solution. The new R410A inverter systems are more efficient and are up to 30 percent cheaper to run than conventional systems. The Government’s Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) initiative makes this an easier choice for employers. Anybody buying a system with the ECA mark on it can claim back the cost of the tax/ Capital Allowance from the Government. The scheme provides a tax incentive to businesses that invest in equipment that meets published energy saving criteria, making it a much more cost effective route. As part of the climate change Levy Programme, the UK needs to meet a target of reducing carbon emissions by 20 percent. Currently the Government see R410A as the most effective way for the air conditioning industry to contribute to this.

It is essential for all air conditioning companies to ensure they comply with new Government legislation and the ban on HCFC’s has resulted in new, compulsory training on the handling and installation of F gases. There have been some reservations in the industry regarding the complicity of the F gas certification. The information engineers are expected to know is useful in most theoretical situations, however it is difficult to translate the theory into practical scenarios and in some situations it bears little resemblance to reality for most engineers.

The legislative changes have caused challenges for businesses, especially in today’s current economic climate, many cannot afford the downtime and disruption incurred when engineers are working on their systems. However it is vital that companies weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of incurring downtime vs. the system failing, being non- repairable and incurring large replacement outlay costs.

Cold Control, the award winning air conditioning and refrigeration specialists were recently awarded a contract to work with a major building contractor and a leading consultancy company on a large refurbishment contract at a prestigious London office development. They were selected to replace the existing R22 air conditioning systems within the second and third floor open plan office areas. The building is situated on the Shepherds Bush Road, a highly active and built up area. Cold Control organised and co-ordinated a late Sunday night four-hour road closure to ensure minimal disruption to residents and surrounding businesses. The project was completed within a very restricted timescale, Cold Control were allocated eight weeks and Cold Control completed it within seven. It was efficiently project managed to ensure the integration of new systems and safe disposal of the existing R22.

It is imperative for all air conditioning companies to demonstrate due diligence and commitment to the drive towards zero carbon in the industry, Cold Control take an active and personal approach by advising all of their clients, regardless of how small the R22 system is, that it should be replaced. The company have managed to work around all of their clients requirements, completing several office refurbishments out of normal working hours.  Similarly, Cold Control adopt the same stance within their refrigeration division, by guiding and encouraging clients to use rejected heat as a form of preheating their hot water supplies. This initiative proved very successful for the biggest meat processing plant in the UK. Cold Control delivered benefits of a 47 percent saving on hot water generation costs by initiating a scheme to reheat their water with what would have been wasted heat.  

Mark Grant, Managing Director of Cold Control comments, ‘The reduction in carbon emissions must be made a realistic goal and be achieved within five years. For this to happen the Government will have to make more equipment eligible for the ECA- not only air conditioning but also for anybody changing their refrigeration. This will motivate more companies to make the change and contribute to the push towards zero carbon. Furthermore, industry professionals should encourage their clients to choose the permanent, long term R410A solution as opposed to the temporary interim alternative’.

Cold Control have the knowledge and experience to assist any company with solutions to the complex difficulties that arise from the mandatory refurbishment of air conditioning systems and refrigeration in existing buildings. Their engineers are fully trained in all legislative changes and regulations ensuring an efficient service.

For more information on Cold Control’s service offering and maintenance please call 0844 9670573 or alternatively visit their website www.coldcontrol.co.uk

ENDS

Notes to editor:
Cold Control is a specialist award winning air conditioning and refrigeration company offering a full turnkey service including: design, installation, after sales service and maintenance. Cold Control provides a 24/7 emergency breakdown service and can offer its customers a nationwide service. The company aims to provide long-term satisfaction for its customers and is committed to delivering a first rate service. Cold Control is an independent accredited installer for all major manufacturers and boasts an impressive client base, from large pub chains and commercial buildings to many well-known department stores. All Cold Control engineers are fully trained and qualified and equipped with a comprehensive stock of parts.

For reader enquiries please contact:
Cold Control Limited, Station Approach, Four Marks, Alton, Hampshire GU34 5HN
Telephone: 01420 562997
Fax: 01420 563069
Email: sales@coldcontrol.co.uk
www.coldcontrol.co.uk

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Cold Control is a specialist award winning air conditioning and refrigeration company offering a full turnkey service including: design, installation, after sales service and maintenance. Cold Control provides a 24/7 emergency breakdown service.