Air conditioning commissioning and handover in London
Vacuum, leak check, refrigerant release and a full test of your new air conditioning, then a clear walk-through of the controls before we leave.
Air conditioningThe system is only finished when it has been proven to work
Air conditioning commissioning is the final and most important stage of the installation. We remove air and moisture from the pipework with a vacuum pump, release the refrigerant, and then run the system to check that it cools properly, drains correctly and runs without unusual noise.
We then show you how to use the remote control or app, explain the modes and filter care, and leave you with the records for the installation. Ready to start from the beginning? The survey and unit sizing is where every job begins.
What we do at this stage
Nothing is signed off until every check below has been done.
Vacuum the pipework
A vacuum pump removes air and moisture, and we check that the vacuum holds.
Release the refrigerant
The refrigerant is released and topped up for the length of the pipe run.
Leak check
All joints and service ports are checked for leaks once the system holds refrigerant.
Performance test
Cooling, heating where fitted, fan speeds, louvres and temperatures are tested.
Drain test
Water is run through the drain to show it flows freely and does not leak.
Handover and controls
A walk-through of the remote, the modes, the timer and how to clean the filters.
How the visit runs
We prove the system
Vacuum, leak check and refrigerant release, with every step recorded.
We test the results
We run every mode and check temperatures, drainage, noise and vibration.
We hand it over
We show you the controls, explain filter care and leave the records with you.
What happens at commissioning, and what to do next
Commissioning is not just switching the unit on. Air and moisture left in the pipework reduce efficiency and can damage the compressor, so the vacuum stage has to reach a deep vacuum and hold. Refrigerant is then released from the outdoor unit, and any extra charge needed for longer pipe runs is added by weight.
A correctly working unit produces air clearly cooler than the air it draws in, drains water normally and runs without rattles or unusual noise. We check each of these across the modes, and we test that the remote control and any app connection work before we leave.
After handover, clean the filters regularly, keep clear space around both units and book a service each year to keep the system efficient and to spot early signs of trouble. We install and service systems across London, so you can call us on 07353 373753 if anything does not seem right.
Frequently asked questions
What is commissioning on an air conditioning system?
It is the final set of checks and tests: vacuum, refrigerant release, leak check, performance and drain tests, and a handover to you.
Will you show me how to use the controls?
Yes. We go through the remote or app, the modes, the timer and the filter care before we leave.
How often should air conditioning be serviced?
Once a year is the usual advice, and more often in a shop or office where the system runs for long hours.
What if something is not right after handover?
Call us on 07353 373753 or use the contact page, and we will arrange a visit.
Book your air conditioning installation
Know the price before we start
Every service on this site has a published rate by time band. Check what your job costs, then book the slot that suits you. You can also return to the air conditioning overview or browse all our services.
Published rates
Air conditioning hourly rates in London
You pay a first-hour rate, then a lower rate for each extra half hour. The rate depends on the day and time of the visit.
| Air conditioning | Mon–Fri 8am–6pm | Mon–Fri 6pm–10pm | Saturday 8am–6pm | Sunday 8am–6pm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First hour | £85 | £88 | £88 | £98 |
| Each extra half hour | £42 | £45 | £50 | £52 |
| Daily rate | £495 | — | — | — |
Rates apply to jobs inside the M25. Minimum charges apply. Materials are charged in addition to labour, and shopping time for materials is charged at £35 per hour. See the full rate card.
Why Plumbery
Qualified, insured and upfront about price
Every engineer we send is registered or qualified for the trade they work in, and you can check the details before anyone starts.
- Gas Safe registeredGas and heating work is done by Gas Safe registered engineers.
- NICEIC qualifiedElectrical work is done by NICEIC-qualified electricians.
- F-Gas certifiedAir conditioning work is done by F-Gas certified engineers.
- Fully insuredEvery job is covered by our insurance.
- Rates published in advanceOur hourly rates are on the pricing page. Nothing starts until you agree the rate.
- Paperwork includedGas safety certificates and electrical records are provided on completion.
- Registered companyPlumbery Ltd, company no. 11677583, registered in England and Wales.
All air conditioning services
Survey and unit sizing
Outdoor condenser mounting
Electrical connection