+ What does air conditioning do?

Air conditioning is the process of treating the temperature, distribution, cleanness and humidity of the air.

**Cooling**

An air conditioning system will provide precise temperature control. You can always create the climate in which is most comfortable, with the required temperature. Not only does it create comfort, it makes you feel fresh and active even in the most extreme conditions.

**Heating**

Air conditioners can also offer heating as an option. This enables you to enjoy a constant temperature all year through, no matter what the temperature outside may be.

**Cleaning**

A well maintained air conditioning system will produce clean, healthy air. All indoor aircon units are equipped with ‘filters’ that take dust, pollen, smoke etc from the air. The level of filtration can be increased according to the needs of the customer. This air filtration process is critical for persons with allergies.

**Dehumidifying**

During cooling mode, an air conditioning system will dehumidify the air, thus creating an increased feeling of wellbeing. It is worth noting that at the correct humidity level, the growth of dust mites and mold is limited, which again has a positive effect on persons with allergies. It has been discovered that Human beings feel that 40 to 60 % humidity is a comfort level.

**Ventilating**

Ventilation can be integrated in the air conditioning system. It extracts the inside air and forces in new, conditioned air from outside. During the cooler seasons, when your air conditioning is not in use, the ventilation can work independently. It is worth noting that ventilation systems can also be installed without the air conditioner.

+ Why air conditioning?

Air conditioning enables you to create the right temperature and a comfortable humidity.

A well maintained air conditioning system will produce clean, dehumidified, healthy fresh air without the nuisance of draught nor noise.

Air conditioning helps you feel fresh and more active, resulting in many advantages both at home and in the workplace, because one who feels better is more creative and productive. The same applies during the summer months in a shop, hotel, café or restaurant with air conditioning.

+ What is the effect on my employee's personal performance?

Studies have proved that there is a close correlation between performance of an individual and the temperature of his/her immediate surroundings. An environment without aircon that is too hot, too cold will not contribute to a higher working efficiency.

+ What is the effect on your health?

It is now apparent that more health conscious people are drawing their attention to indoor air quality. Their are various health effects an individual may experience from indoor air pollutants soon after exposure or possibly even years later. However, a well maintained air conditioning system is able to prevent or reduce some of the health effects.

The way houses and buildings are constructed to reduce the energy required to heat and cool the house. Although in order to do this, ventilation has been restricted which means that humidity levels are maintained within the house by re-circulating the same air and pollutants. Therefore without good ventilation or an air conditioner system, dust, mold, smoke, viruses, bacteria, fungus, mildew and gasses circulate through the building.

It is worth noting that the dust mentioned above, derives from the skin, hair, clothes or just comes off shoes when walking. The mildew, fungus and mold enters with the dust and the gasses can be caused by dyes, adhesives, paints, varnishes etc.

One of the most effective solutions to lower the concentration of these air pollutants are ventilation, humidity control and filters. air conditioning offers a complete solution.

Air conditioning can filter the air, adjust humidity and provide the optional integrated ventilation (thus requiring a less effective filter due to the nature of the process). The efficiency of an air conditioning filter is measured in the percentage of arrestance of particles. The arrestance describes how well an air filter removes larger particles such as dirt, lint, hair, and dust.

+ What is the effect on indoor equipment?

Air conditioning does not only offer the comfort or a required temperature and clean, healthy air, but it is of great benefit to your indoor equipment. This is especially where the function of dehumidifying is considered. It has been discovered that the low humidity level can extend the lifetime of your equipment. In order for your air conditioning system to achieve this, a humidity level of 40-60 % is advised for a good conservation of indoor equipment.

+ How to choose the right air conditioning equipment?

In order to create the right climate, several factors will determine which air conditioning equipment is the most suitable solution. Here are some things to bear in mind:

To what extent do you want to control the indoor climate? Do you want ventilation and/or heating? Or do just want an air conditioning system to cool only? These are important points as your requirements will determine the type of air conditioning system.

**Air purification**

The filters in the air conditioning units can remove the dust particles floating in the air. However, this is dependant on the level of filtration on offer from different air conditioning systems.

**Capacity of air conditioning unit**

Selecting the right capacity should be the responsibility of the air conditioning installer to calculate. They will take into account various factors such as solar infiltration, lighting, number of occupants, etc. This is essential as an air conditioning system with too high capacity will lead to high energy bills, heavy draught, and fluctuating temperatures. With a too low, it will be almost impossible to reach the desired temperature.

**Place of the outdoor unit**

The outdoor air conditioning unit should get an appropriate place, preferably situated on a solid base and easily accessible to all sides for maintenance.

**How many rooms**

The number of rooms will determine the air conditioning system. Although if there is more than one room it is possible to connect several indoor air conditioner units to one outdoor unit.

+ Which kind of room, an office, board room, living room or bedroom?

Each application requires its own air conditioning system:

The choice of the air conditioning model will be determined by the availability of space to install the unit. Factors such as false ceilings, free space on the wall and even planning permission etc. Each air conditioning unit has its own air distribution pattern, therefore he location of the unit is extremely important.

+ How does an air conditioning specialist select the correct air conditioning size?

The air conditioning size can differ due to a number of factors: the aspect positioning of the property, the material the build, such as brick veneer, double brick or steel plating. Other factors include the positioning and size of the windows and the insulation has to be considered on the sizing. All these factors combined with your location geographically will influence the selection of air conditioner requirements. It is worth noting that up to 20% between a property in Scotland and Cornwall.

+ What are the benefits of air conditioning?

The primary benefit of air conditioning is to provide a comfortable environment. An air conditioning unit has various functions such as cooling, heating, dehumidifying or even, fan only. Other benefits are suited to those with asthma whereby the temperature can be set, when dehumidifying the unit will get rid of moisture in the air without dropping the room temperature.

+ What are some types of air conditioning available?

Multi system – These multi air conditioning systems allow up to four indoor units to a single outdoor unit. There are a wide variety of indoor units, therefore it is relatively easy to select a model that matches almost any decor/theme.

Single room air conditioning – This is a one-piece unit that must be fitted to an external wall or window. It is worth noting that these can be available in Reverse Cycle or Cooling only.

Ducted – Ducted air conditioner will condition all or part of your property. This type of work should only be carried out by a qualified air conditioning technician.

Split aircon – This is a two piece units consisting of an indoor and outside unit. A split air conditioning system will offer either or both, reverse cycle or cooling only. If the option is available, we recommend an Inverter air conditioning unit, as these are quieter, energy efficient and economical.

+ What are the benefits of having my air conditioning maintained?

By receiving regular maintenance visits you can ensure that your air conditioning will work when you need it. Here are just a few benefits of having regular maintenance

Reduces breakdown costs System efficiency Saves energy consumption Extension of air conditioning system life cycle

+ What maintenence checks should be carried out on my air conditioner?

It is essential that your air conditioning system must be kept free from dust, dirt and any debris. If cleaned regularly, your air conditioning system will remain reliable, efficient in cooling and in turn requiring a less energy. It is worth noting that most manufacturers will recommend maintaining your air conditioning unit at least once a year if it is not used regularly, and at least once every three months if it is used daily.

It is essential that a qualified technician should check the evaporator fans, condensate pump and drainage to ensure they are not worn out or damaged. It is best to report other problems that you may have experienced with your air conditioning whilst our technician is onsite so that he can perform the necessary checks and repairs before your air conditioning incurs serious damage. Other services are equally important such as replenishing the refrigerant gas, checking the water pumps, replacing damaged drain tubes or condensate. Although this particular service may be charged an additional fee.

As previously mentioned, preventive measures are essential in order to minimise air conditioning repair and replacement costs.

+ What are the air conditioning installation requirements?

When installing an air conditioner system, certain allowances must be made for drainage from the indoor unit for both cooling and heating modes. The positioning of the indoor unit should not restrict the flow of air and where possible the evaporator unit should be installed so that the airflow is central within the room. With regards to the outdoor unit, it should be well-ventilated, easily accessible and situated on a solid footing. It is important to note that installation faults may void your warranty with the manufacturer, therefore this work should only be carried out by qualified air conditioning installers.

+ Can I improve my insulation to save money on purchasing an air conditioning unit?

Yes. You can save a significant amount of money on both the running costs and the size of the air conditioning unit if the room is adequately insulated.

+ What are the factors to consider when buying and/or installing split air conditioning?

Although this may seem the obvious answer, it is worth double checking that Make sure you purchase the correct size. This allows the air conditioning unit to switch off earlier when the correct temperature is reached.

A tip is to set your air conditioning thermostat between 22 and 24 degrees in summer – this is usually the most comfortable.

You may want to consider insulating the ceiling void. This way the air conditioner unit may reach its temperature quicker. An added bonus is that you may qualify for a smaller (more fitting) evaporator and cheaper air conditioning unit.

Ensure the correct brackets for the air conditioning unit are used and securely fitted to avoid unnecessary vibration.

Make sure the air conditioning filters are maintained on a regular basis. Try to have your unit serviced by a certified technician annually.

+ How do I locate the (kW) of my air conditioning system?

The output can be found on the rating plate attached to the air conditioning system. If not we recommend you seek out the operating manual or even the manufacturer’s website. We will include this information in your maintenance contract record.

+ Will I need an air conditioning Inspection if the units are under 12kW?

Yes. An inspection is required by law, irrespective of whether they are linked to an individual air conditioning control system. If total capacity of the air conditioning system exceeds 12kW an inspection is required.

+ Who has the responsibility to ensure the air conditioning inspection is done?

The responsibility lies with the individual/s who control the operation of the air conditioner. More specifically, this refers to the individual who controls the technical function of the air conditioning system – more than not, the tenant or owner.

Depending on the terms of the contract we may be responsible for the management of your air conditioning. If not, it more than likely that the duty is shared with the tenant or owner. It is important to note that someone who simply adjusts the temperature of the air conditioning does not qualify.

+ What makes M and F Air Conditing Limited unique?

At M and F Air Conditing Limited, we have the capacity not only to carry out a thorough inspection but also to carry out any remedial works and upgrades. By implementing M and F Air Conditing Limited's recommendations, you can achieve:

Improved air quality; reducing airborne bacteria and allergies

Health & Safety compliant

System reliability and efficiency

Extension of your air conditioning product life cycle

Reduce annual costs

Energy reduction

CO2 reduction

+ Are there penalties for not having my air conditioning inspected?

The information to date is that, failing to have an inspection on your air conditioning will incur a penalty of £300. However, the industry does expect this penalty to increase significantly to approximately 12.5% of rateable property value.

General air conditioning information : By locating the outdoor (condenser) unit in direct sunlight makes it work harder.

Horsepower is a measure of the rating of a compressor and does not relate to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system. Use watts or B.T.U.

If a unit produces a fault due to a problem with the installation of your air conditioning (i.e. faulty flare connections etc.) this will not be covered under the warranty. Therefore it is essential that a certified air conditioning contractor to undertake the installation.

It has been founded that most people are comfortable between 24 and 26 degrees. The same applies to a humidity level of 60% to 75% in summer and 55% to 70% in winter.

The location of the outdoor air conditioning unit must be easily accessible from all sides.