Questions about cooling, heating or refrigeration?
Clear answers for homeowners, facilities teams, hospitality businesses and commercial customers.
Showing 50 answers
GeneralWhich areas do you cover?+
Fusilair is based in Westbury and works across Wiltshire, Somerset and surrounding counties. If you are near the edge of this area, call 07947 111153 and we will confirm whether we can help.
GeneralWhat services do you provide?+
We provide installation, fault repairs and planned servicing for commercial refrigeration, split air conditioning and VRF systems. Air conditioning is available for commercial and domestic customers; refrigeration work is commercial only.
GeneralDo you offer emergency call-outs?+
Yes. Our breakdown phone line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Attendance time depends on location, demand, access and the nature of the fault, so call us with as much detail as possible.
GeneralWhat information should I have when I call about a fault?+
If safe to do so, have the equipment make and model, any error code, the temperature or symptoms, when the problem started and your site address ready. Photos of the unit and controller can also help us understand the issue.
GeneralShould I switch faulty equipment off?+
If there is a burning smell, smoke, sparking, water near electrics or another immediate safety concern, stop using the equipment and isolate it only if you can do so safely. For ordinary error codes or poor performance, call us before repeatedly resetting the system.
GeneralCan anyone work on refrigerant systems?+
No. Work involving fluorinated refrigerant in stationary air conditioning and refrigeration must be carried out by appropriately qualified personnel, and businesses carrying out this work for others require the relevant company certification.
GeneralHow often should air conditioning or refrigeration be serviced?+
There is no single interval that suits every system. The manufacturer’s instructions, hours of use, environment, equipment type and legal leak-check duties all matter. Many systems benefit from at least annual professional servicing, while heavily used commercial equipment may need more frequent visits. We can suggest a schedule after reviewing the equipment.
GeneralWhat is included in a service?+
The exact work depends on the equipment and service plan. A visit may include condition and performance checks, cleaning accessible components, checking controls, drainage and temperatures, identifying wear or leaks and recording recommended remedial work. Your quotation will state the agreed scope.
GeneralWill servicing stop every breakdown?+
No maintenance programme can guarantee that equipment will never fail. Planned servicing can identify developing problems, keep components clean and help reduce avoidable breakdowns, but age, usage and component failure still affect reliability.
Domestic air conditioningDo you install air conditioning in homes?+
Yes. Fusilair installs and services split air conditioning for domestic customers. We do not repair domestic fridges or freezers.
Domestic air conditioningCan a home air-conditioning system heat as well as cool?+
Many modern split systems are reversible air-to-air heat pumps, so they can provide heating and cooling. The selected model and design will confirm its capabilities. These systems normally heat the air and do not provide domestic hot water.
Domestic air conditioningWhat size air conditioner do I need?+
Sizing should be based on a heat-load assessment, not floor area alone. Room size, glazing, insulation, orientation, occupancy, roof type and heat-producing equipment all affect the required output. An oversized or undersized unit can be less comfortable and efficient.
Domestic air conditioningCan one outdoor unit serve several rooms?+
Often, yes. A multi-split arrangement can connect several compatible indoor units to one outdoor unit. Whether this is the best option depends on room loads, pipe routes, simultaneous use, available outdoor space and the level of individual control you want.
Domestic air conditioningDo I need planning permission for home air conditioning?+
It depends. Planning Portal guidance says some systems that provide heating as well as cooling may be permitted development when all limits and conditions are met. Cooling-only systems may require an application, and protected areas or listed buildings have additional requirements. Check with your local planning authority before work starts.
Domestic air conditioningDo I need permission from a landlord or freeholder?+
Usually you should obtain written permission before altering a rented property, flat or leasehold building. Planning permission and landlord or freeholder consent are separate matters, so you may need both.
Domestic air conditioningWhere will the indoor and outdoor units go?+
Indoor units need unobstructed airflow and a practical route for refrigerant pipework, power and condensate drainage. Outdoor units need adequate ventilation, service access and a position that considers appearance, structure, boundaries and noise. We agree the proposed locations before installation.
Domestic air conditioningHow noisy is a split air-conditioning system?+
Modern systems are designed for quiet operation, but sound levels vary by model, fan speed and installation position. We consider bedrooms, neighbouring properties, reflective walls and mounting methods when recommending equipment and locations.
Domestic air conditioningHow disruptive is installation?+
A split system requires an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, small-bore pipework, power, drainage and openings through the building fabric. The time and disruption depend on the number of rooms, access and how pipework is routed. We explain the proposed route and likely programme in the quotation.
Domestic air conditioningHow much will air conditioning cost to run?+
Running cost depends on the unit’s electrical input and efficiency, your electricity tariff, set temperature, hours of use, weather and how well the room holds heat. We can estimate consumption from the proposed design, but no installer can promise one fixed bill for every household.
Domestic air conditioningIs fixed split air conditioning better than a portable unit?+
A fixed split system is generally quieter and more efficient, does not need an open window for an exhaust hose and can provide a permanent heating-and-cooling solution. A portable unit costs less upfront and can be moved, but normally uses more energy for the cooling delivered and occupies floor space.
Domestic air conditioningDoes air conditioning bring fresh air into the room?+
Most standard split systems recirculate and condition indoor air; they do not replace a ventilation system. Windows, extract systems or mechanical ventilation may still be needed to provide fresh air and control indoor pollutants.
Domestic air conditioningWill air conditioning reduce humidity?+
Air conditioning normally removes some moisture while cooling, which can make a room feel more comfortable. It is not always a substitute for diagnosing damp, water ingress or a dedicated ventilation and humidity-control problem.
Domestic air conditioningWhat can I do between services?+
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, keep air inlets and outlets clear, clean user-accessible filters at the recommended interval and watch for unusual noise, smells, leaks or reduced performance. Turn the power off before any permitted user maintenance and leave refrigerant or electrical work to qualified personnel.
Commercial air conditioningWhat is the difference between split and VRF air conditioning?+
A split system usually connects one or a small number of indoor units to outdoor equipment. VRF is designed for larger, multi-zone buildings and can connect many indoor units with centralised or individual control. Building size, diversity of use, controls and future flexibility determine which is more suitable.
Commercial air conditioningCan you work around our opening hours?+
Tell us your access restrictions and busiest periods when you enquire. We will discuss a practical programme and identify any work that requires shutdowns, restricted areas or coordination with other contractors.
Commercial air conditioningIs there a legal maximum workplace temperature?+
HSE guidance says there is no fixed legal maximum workplace temperature. Employers must still provide a reasonable indoor temperature, assess heat as a workplace risk and put suitable controls in place. Air conditioning may form part of the solution, alongside ventilation, shading and working practices.
Commercial air conditioningDoes my air-conditioning system need a TM44-style energy inspection?+
In England and Wales, systems with an effective rated output above 12 kW must be inspected by an accredited energy assessor at intervals no more than five years apart. Multiple units under the control of one person may count together. This statutory energy inspection is separate from routine maintenance.
Commercial air conditioningWhat are F-gas leak checks and do I need them?+
Operators of equipment containing certain fluorinated gases are responsible for required leak checks. The interval depends on the refrigerant quantity expressed as tonnes of CO₂ equivalent; common thresholds begin at 5 tonnes CO₂e, with different rules for some hermetically sealed equipment. We can help identify the equipment details, but the operator remains responsible for compliance.
Commercial air conditioningIs an F-gas leak check the same as a service?+
No. A legal leak check focuses on detecting refrigerant leakage at the required interval. A maintenance visit can cover performance, cleanliness, controls, drainage and general condition. A service plan should clearly state both the maintenance work and any statutory checks included.
Commercial air conditioningCan air conditioning solve poor workplace ventilation?+
Not by itself. Most comfort-cooling systems recirculate room air. HSE guidance expects workplaces to have a supply of fresh, clean air, so ventilation may need to be assessed separately from heating and cooling.
Commercial air conditioningCan different areas have different temperatures?+
Yes, if the system is designed with suitable zoning and controls. Split, multi-split and VRF options can provide independent control, but open-plan layouts, shared outdoor equipment and simultaneous heating or cooling requirements affect what is practical.
Commercial air conditioningCan you replace an older system using a discontinued refrigerant?+
Usually there are options, but the best route depends on the existing refrigerant, pipework, controls, indoor units and condition of the installation. Older equipment may need replacement rather than repeated repair or refrigerant top-ups. We assess it before recommending reuse or replacement.
Commercial refrigerationDo you repair domestic fridges and freezers?+
No. Fusilair’s refrigeration service is for commercial and catering equipment only. We do provide domestic split air-conditioning services.
Commercial refrigerationWhat temperature should a commercial fridge or freezer run at?+
Food Standards Agency guidance recommends keeping chilled food at 5°C or below; in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, cold food must generally be kept at 8°C or below. Commercial freezers are commonly operated at around -18°C. Your food-safety plan and the product requirements should set the exact limits for your business.
Commercial refrigerationHow often should we record refrigeration temperatures?+
Food businesses should have a consistent monitoring routine. FSA guidance supports daily checks and records as part of opening checks and the food-safety management system. Higher-risk operations may choose more frequent or automated monitoring.
Commercial refrigerationWhat should we do if a commercial fridge breaks down?+
Keep doors closed, note the time and temperatures, move food to working equipment or another cold location if safe and follow your food-safety plan. Call us with the equipment details and current temperature. Do not assume food is safe solely because the cabinet feels cool.
Commercial refrigerationCan you tell us whether food is safe after a breakdown?+
We can diagnose and repair the refrigeration equipment, but the food business is responsible for food-safety decisions. Use recorded time and temperature information, your HACCP or food-safety plan and current Food Standards Agency guidance. If uncertain, seek food-safety advice rather than taking a risk.
Commercial refrigerationWhy is our refrigerator running too warm?+
Possible causes include blocked or dirty heat exchangers, failed fans, damaged door seals, doors being opened frequently, excessive or warm stock loading, controller or sensor faults, poor ventilation, icing or a refrigerant-system fault. A proper diagnosis is needed before parts are replaced.
Commercial refrigerationWhy is ice building up inside the equipment?+
Ice can be linked to damaged seals, doors left open, humid air entering, blocked drainage, defrost faults, sensor problems or airflow restrictions. Removing visible ice does not correct the cause and sharp tools can damage the equipment, so arrange an inspection if it returns.
Commercial refrigerationDoes refrigerant need routine topping up?+
Refrigerant circulates in a sealed system and is not normally consumed. A low charge can indicate leakage or previous incorrect charging. The cause should be found and repaired rather than repeatedly adding refrigerant.
Commercial refrigerationHow can we reduce avoidable refrigeration problems?+
Keep vents and condensers unobstructed, avoid overloading cabinets, allow hot food to cool according to your food-safety procedure before loading, check door seals, record temperatures, act on alarms and arrange planned maintenance suitable for the operating environment.
Commercial refrigerationCan servicing be arranged for several items at one site?+
Yes. Tell us how many items you have, their locations and any critical operating hours. We can discuss a planned schedule and how equipment records should be organised for your site.
Quotes & customer accountsHow do I request a quote?+
Use the contact form, email enquiries@fusilair.co.uk or call 07947 111153. Give us the site address, equipment type, work required and preferred contact method. We will let you know whether a site visit or further information is needed.
Quotes & customer accountsCan you quote without visiting?+
Sometimes photos, equipment details and a clear scope are enough for an initial price. Installations, complex faults and work with uncertain access or condition often need a site survey before a firm quotation can be prepared.
Quotes & customer accountsWhy can’t you show fixed prices for every job?+
Equipment capacity, pipe routes, access, electrical work, controls, parts, refrigerant, lifting requirements and working hours can all change the scope. A written quotation makes clear what is included rather than relying on a misleading headline price.
Quotes & customer accountsDo I need an account to contact Fusilair?+
No. You can make an enquiry without creating an account. We will offer account setup after your enquiry, and may send another invitation when a quotation is issued if an account is needed for the next step.
Quotes & customer accountsWhy do I need a customer account for a quote?+
The secure portal gives you one place to view and accept quotations, follow jobs, see sites and equipment, access warranty or service information and contact Fusilair for support. It also helps keep customer and job records connected.
Quotes & customer accountsWhat should I do if my account invitation expires or does not arrive?+
Check your spam or junk folder and confirm that we have the correct email address. If the link has expired or is missing, contact enquiries@fusilair.co.uk or call 07947 111153 and we can help with access.
Quotes & customer accountsWhat happens after I accept a quote?+
The accepted quotation is connected to a Fusilair job so the work can be scheduled and managed. Your portal keeps the quote, job and later equipment or service information together. Any timing, deposit or access requirements will be confirmed separately.
Quotes & customer accountsWill the quotation explain what is included?+
Yes. The written quotation should set out the scope, line items, totals and applicable terms. Ask before accepting if any access work, electrical supply, builders’ work, decoration, disposal or other responsibility is unclear.
Answers informed by current UK sources.
Technical, planning and legal requirements depend on the equipment, refrigerant, property and location. These answers are a practical starting point, not a substitute for a site assessment or advice from the relevant authority.
Ask us about your exact equipment or property.
A quick conversation can usually identify the most useful next step.
