1. Not Keeping F-Gas Records for Long Enough
Under the F-Gas Regulations, installation records must be retained for a minimum of five years. Many installers keep records for a year or two then dispose of them, leaving them exposed if inspected by the Environment Agency.
The fix: Store all compliance documentation securely and indefinitely. Digital records are perfectly acceptable and take up no physical space.
2. Missing the CO2 Equivalent Calculation
The leak check frequency for stationary refrigeration systems depends on the CO2 equivalent (CO2e) of the refrigerant charge, not just the charge mass in kilograms. Installers frequently record the charge but forget to calculate CO2e, which means they cannot demonstrate the correct leak check interval.
The fix: Always calculate CO2e using the GWP (Global Warming Potential) of the refrigerant. For example, 2 kg of R410A (GWP 2088) equals 4.176 tCO2e, triggering 12-month leak checks.
3. No Fixed Leak Detection on Large Systems
Systems with a charge of 500 tCO2e or more must have a fixed leak detection system fitted. This is frequently overlooked on commercial installations.
The fix: Always calculate CO2e before completing the installation. If it exceeds 500 tCO2e, a fixed leak detection system is mandatory.
4. Incomplete Commissioning Data
Commissioning sheets are often filled in with gaps - missing superheat, subcooling or running current values. This undermines the validity of the commissioning certificate.
The fix: Measure and record every value on the manufacturer's commissioning sheet. If you don't have the value to hand, note it as pending rather than leaving it blank.
5. No Customer Handover Documentation
Many installers complete the installation but never formally hand over compliance documentation to the customer. This leaves the customer without proof of compliance and the installer without a paper trail.
The fix: Always provide a complete handover pack including the commissioning report, F-Gas installation record, equipment schedule and handover certificate. It protects both you and your customer.