Victorians looking to cool down this summer are being urged by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) and Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) to hire experts when installing refrigerated air-conditioning units.
State Building Surveyor at the VBA, Andrew Cialini said using licensed plumbers and electricians to install and connect air-conditioning units would ultimately save people time and money.
“Despite the temptation in warm weather, trying to install a refrigerated air-conditioning unit yourself can create bigger problems than being hot and bothered, it is a complicated task that requires a qualified person,” Mr Cialini said.
“Installing a refrigerated air-conditioning system is not something you can do yourself; if you get it wrong the consequences could lead to damage to your property, or even be deadly,” he said.
“You must use a practitioner who is licensed in the appropriate class of plumbing to carry out the work to make sure things are done properly.”
Mr Cialini said if refrigerated air-conditioning was being installed on upper-storey balconies, people should consider the placement of the outdoor unit to prevent children climbing on them “which could result in tragic consequences”.
The State Building Surveyor said that, once the work was completed, the plumber must provide a compliance certificate and an installer must also provide a Certificate of Electrical Safety if the installation included electrical work.
“A compliance certificate is evidence of certification by the licensed practitioner that the work carried out complies with the relevant standards, codes and regulations,” he said.
“It also provides a warranty for the installation for six years,” Mr Cialini said.
A one-page ESV and VBA fact sheet on air-conditioner installation can be accessed at this PS News link.
