Here are six questions every business should ask before signing on the dotted line:
Are your staff qualified?
As with any business, training and staff certification creates the foundation of a competent and successful business. The minimum training a refrigeration engineer should hold is the following:
- F-gas 2079 City and Guilds
- SVQ Level 3 in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (or suitable equivalent)
- Hydrocarbon and CO2 training (depending on equipment)
- Site specific training, such as Awareness or Working at Height
What is your approach to energy efficiency?
Energy reduction should be paramount when carrying out a planned inspection of a refrigeration or air conditioning system, no matter the size. After a maintenance visit, your system should be operating as efficiently as possible. If its not, then there should be a plan in place to get the system back to optimal health.
What response times do you guarantee?
This is one of the most important questions any business can ask a refrigeration contractor when tendering a contract. Response times can vary from 2-4hrs to days; it’s important to understand what level of response suits your business best.
Do you have a case study of maintenance you have carried out elsewhere?
This shows that the contractor you are considering employing has previously carried out the work they are trying to sell to your business. The typical duration of a planned inspection can range anywhere from 1hr to 8hrs+ depending on system size and complexity.
How often does our equipment need leak tested?
Leak testing frequency of refrigeration systems is outlined within the F-gas regulations. Leak testing frequency can range from 1 to 4 leak tests per annum, and in some cases fixed leak detection may be required. The leak testing frequency calculation is based on the refrigerant volume and Global Warming Potential; more information can be found here: Checking F gas equipment for leaks – GOV.UK
How do you manage service delivery?
It’s important to understand how your contractor will manage jobs and service delivery when they are carrying out works on your site, especially if your site has multiple refrigeration systems.
Most modern refrigeration contractors will have an electronic job management system which automatically generates reports after an engineers visit. If they do have this, then ask for a copy of example job sheets, risk assessments, method statements, and point of work risk assessments. This should give you a good understanding of the businesses approach to reporting and compliance.
Contact Carnegie Refrigeration today for free advice, enquiries, or anything related to refrigeration. We are more than happy to assist.
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