What Does TM44 Stand For? Key Takeaways:
1. “TM44 stands for “Technical Memorandum 44” and is the CIBSE guidance for the inspection of air conditioning systems in the UK.
2. TM44 inspections are legally required for all air conditioning systems with an effective rated output of 12kW or more and must be carried out every 5 years by an accredited energy assessor, such as ACI Reports.
3. Penalties for non-compliance with TM44 is a fine of at least £300, which can be repeated weekly until a valid certificate is in place.
Introduction to TM44
Under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), member states across Europe are legally required to carry out regular inspections of air conditioning systems with an effective rated output of 12kW or more.
While EPBD is no longer directly applicable to the UK, it presents important considerations for the UK government as it works towards its 2050 net zero target. Separate UK legislation now mandates that any person with authority over the operation of an air conditioning system must organise an inspection with an accredited energy assessor every 5 years.
The principle guidance for undertaking these inspections in the UK is set out by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and is known as TM44. This guidance is primarily intended to support inspections carried out for compliance with EPBD but is also useful to anyone intending to assess the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system.
What Does TM44 Stand for?
“TM44” stands for “Technical Memorandum 44” and provides guidance on the inspection of air conditioning systems in the UK. It is part of a larger framework aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in our built environment.
Developed by CIBSE, technical memoranda provide concise guidance on emerging technologies and innovative approaches to established systems. CIBSE is an international professional engineering association based in London and represents building service engineers.
TM44 Requirements
According to CIBSE guidance for TM44 inspections, all air conditioning systems with an effective rated output of 12kW or more must be inspected every 5 years by an accredited air conditioning energy assessor, such as ACI Reports.
You can find out the effective output of an individual air conditioning unit by checking the rating plate attached to it. Alternatively, this information may be found in the operating and maintenance manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
If you have multiple units and need to aggregate the ratings shown on the rating plate of each unit, please speak to a member of our team who will be happy to help you.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with TM44
Failure to have your air conditioning systems inspected every 5 years can result in a minimum statutory fine of £300. This penalty can be imposed weekly until a valid TM44 certificate is in place.
Additionally, if you do not provide a copy of the inspection report to an enforcement authority within 7 days when requested, you may face a further fine of £200 for each occurrence.
What Does a TM44 Inspection Include?
During a TM44 inspection, the air conditioning energy assessor will evaluate the performance of your air conditioning unit or system and identify areas for improvement. The resulting report will include at least the following details:
- The efficiency of the system & suggestions for improvement
- Any identified faults & suggested actions
- The adequacy of maintenance & functionality, with guidance on best practices
- If the size of the installed system is appropriate for the required cooling load
- A summary of the findings & key recommendations
While there is no legal obligation to implement the assessor's recommendations, doing so can significantly optimise the energy efficiency, carbon emissions, and operational costs of your air conditioning systems.
Benefits of TM44 Inspections
Professional TM44 inspections provide a comprehensive report on the energy efficiency of air conditioning systems, which offers several benefits for building owners and managers, including:
- Enhanced Efficiency: TM44 surveys identify inefficiencies in air conditioning systems and suggest improvements for optimising performance.
- Reduced Energy Costs: By providing ways to optimise the system’s performance, TM44 inspections can lead to lower energy consumption and reduced operating costs.
- Regulatory Compliance: Conducting a TM44 inspection every 5 years helps you stay compliant with regulations and avoid fines.
- Improved Uptime: TM44 surveys pinpoint potential issues before they become a problem, preventing costly breakdowns and maximising uptime.
- Increased Comfort: Optimal cooling performance ensures a comfortable environment for employees and customers, boosting productivity and satisfaction.
- Environmental Impact: Enhanced efficiency translates to lower carbon emissions, contributing positively to environmental sustainability.
- Upgrade Opportunities: TM44 Inspections highlight opportunities to modernise or upgrade outdated equipment, further improving efficiency and sustainability.
Professional TM44 Surveys & Guidance from ACI Reports
If your air conditioning system is approaching its fifth year of operation or hasn’t had a TM44 inspection in the last 60 months, you should schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Not only will this help you stay compliant, but the recommended improvements could also be the first step towards reducing your energy bills.
At ACI Reports, our experienced team of accredited air conditioning energy assessors can perform TM44 surveys and provide valuable guidance on operating, servicing, and maintaining your air conditioning systems.
For more information about how we can support you, visit our TM44 Survey Services page. If you’re unsure whether you need a TM44 inspection, please speak to our team, who will be happy to help you understand your obligations.
Sarah Lloyd
Estimator, DEC & Accreditation Manager
Sarah is the Estimator, DEC & Accreditation Manager at ACI Reports, bringing 8 years of experience to the company. She began her journey as a New Business Manager and has since taken on a key role in estimating, DEC assessments, and managing industry accreditations. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, Sarah ensures accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in every project she oversees.