5 Common F-Gas Compliance Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

<h2>1. Not Keeping Installation Records</h2><p>One of the most common compliance mistakes is failing to maintain proper installation records. Under the F-Gas Regulations, installers must keep detailed records of every system they install that contains F-Gas refrigerant above 5 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. These records must include the installer's details, equipment information, refrigerant type and quantity, and must be retained for at least five years.</p><h2>2. Incorrect Leak Check Intervals</h2><p>Leak checking frequency depends on the system's total CO2 equivalent charge, not just the refrigerant charge in kilograms. Many installers confuse the two, leading to checks being carried out too infrequently. Systems between 5 and 50 tCO2e require annual checks, while larger systems need more frequent inspections.</p><h2>3. Missing Commissioning Certificates</h2><p>A commissioning certificate confirms that the system has been set up correctly according to the manufacturer's specifications. Without this document, you have no proof that the installation was completed to the required standard — which can cause problems with warranties, insurance claims and regulatory inspections.</p><h2>4. Not Calculating CO2 Equivalent Correctly</h2><p>The CO2 equivalent (CO2e) of a refrigerant charge is calculated by multiplying the refrigerant charge (in kg) by the refrigerant's Global Warming Potential (GWP). This figure determines your leak checking obligations. Getting this calculation wrong can mean you're either over-checking (wasting time) or under-checking (non-compliance).</p><h2>5. Poor Record Keeping for Customers</h2><p>Beyond your own compliance obligations, providing customers with proper documentation is essential for a professional service. A customer handover pack should include all relevant compliance documents, equipment details and maintenance information. Failing to provide this can damage your reputation and lead to disputes.</p><p><strong>Need help staying compliant?</strong> AirCon Docs prepares all your compliance documentation for you — just complete a short project form and we handle the rest.</p>