FAQs

FAQs2024-10-10T08:41:23+00:00
Why is Hoshizaki ice machine beeping?2024-10-10T08:51:47+00:00

A Hoshizaki ice machine uses beeping patterns to signal different issues. The number of beeps corresponds to specific problems:

1 beep: High temperature

2 beeps: Long harvest cycle

3 beeps: Long freeze cycle

4 beeps: Shorted circuit on the mechanical bin sensor

5 beeps: Open circuit on the mechanical bin sensor

6 beeps: Low voltage

7 beeps: High voltage

8 beeps: De-energized gear motor relay

9 beeps: Ice bin is full

Some issues can be resolved by resetting the ice maker, while others may require professional servicing. To reset the machine, follow these steps:

1. Turn the toggle switch to the “Off” position.

2. Use a non-conductive object to press and hold the button located on the right side of the board near the front for 2-3 seconds.

Prevention Tip:

To avoid issues, keep the surrounding air at around 21°C and the water temperature at 10°C

Contact Us if require more help

Which Ice Machine is best?2024-10-10T08:51:09+00:00

Hoshizaki Manitowoc and Scotsman are the three leading brands but are pricey!

Ice-O-Matic, Maidaid & Polar Ice Machines are also great machines if you are on a budget

We highly recommend that you have these maintained regularly! Don’t forget ice is food and when you take apart an ice machine, there are lots of parts to descale and  remove mould! Make sure you keep on top of the maintenance

Why is my ice machine not working2024-10-10T08:50:40+00:00

Several factors could be causing your ice maker to stop functioning. Here are some common issues to check:

Water Filter: If the filter is dirty, clogged, or incorrectly installed, it can prevent water from reaching the ice maker. Most refrigerator water filters should be replaced every six months to ensure proper operation.

Water Inlet Valve: A malfunctioning water inlet valve could stop water from reaching the ice maker. This can happen due to wear and tear or material fatigue.

Freezer Temperature: If the freezer temperature is too low, it can interfere with ice production. Use a thermometer to check and adjust the temperature if necessary.

Ice Maker Switch: Sometimes the ice maker might simply be switched off, especially after installation or movement inside the fridge. Make sure the switch is in the “on” position.

Ice Maker Assembly: A defective component in the ice maker assembly could be the issue. In such cases, the entire assembly may need to be replaced.

Test Cycle: Some ice makers can be reset by running a test cycle. You can do this by pressing and holding the ice cube size adjustment button or the test button for about 10 seconds.

Other Issues: Blocked water fill tubes, a faulty heating element, or a misaligned control arm can also cause problems. It’s worth checking these components if the ice maker still isn’t working.

Contact Us if require more help

How to clean an Ice Machine2024-10-10T08:50:09+00:00

We highly recommend that you get a professional deep clean for your ice machine. You could easily dislodge mould and limescale into your ice bin storage area and then serve this unknowingly into your drinks.

We highly recommend that you have water filters fitted or changed annually as well

Contact Us to book a maintenance

Can you leave an ice machine on overnight?2024-10-10T08:49:47+00:00

Yes, most ice makers are designed to run continuously, so you can leave them on overnight. Many models even feature an automatic shutoff function that stops ice production once the storage bin is full.

However, if you won’t be using your ice maker for a while, here are some tips:

Turn off the water supply to the ice maker or refrigerator.

Switch off the ice maker to conserve energy.

For added convenience, you might consider a portable ice maker with an automatic timer, allowing you to schedule when the machine starts or stops.

What temperature should a walk in fridge be?2024-10-10T08:49:30+00:00

The ideal temperature for a walk-in fridge depends on whether it’s a cooler or a freezer:

Walk-in Cooler: The ideal temperature is between 1°C and 4°C.

Walk-in Freezer: The ideal temperature is -18°C or lower.

Key Considerations:

Food Safety: Maintaining the correct temperature is essential for ensuring food safety and freshness.

  

Efficiency: The efficiency of the fridge depends on the size of the space and the materials used in its construction. Proper insulation and sealing are important for keeping energy usage low.

Outdoor Installation: If your walk-in fridge is located outdoors, insulation and climate control are crucial to maintaining the right temperature, especially during extreme weather.

Temperature Consistency: Once you’ve set the thermostat, it’s important to maintain good practices—such as keeping the door closed and ensuring regular maintenance—to keep the temperature consistent.

Factors That Can Affect Temperature: Several factors can impact the internal temperature, including frequent door openings, equipment malfunctions, and power outages. Regular checks help ensure the unit operates as expected.

How much does a walk in fridge cost?2024-10-10T08:49:14+00:00

The cost of a walk-in fridge can vary based on several factors, including:

Size: Larger units will generally cost more.

Door Style: Options like glass doors or solid doors can impact the price.

Racking and Shelving**: The type and amount of shelving you need can affect the overall cost.

Lighting: LED or specialized lighting might increase the price.

Refrigeration Type: The kind of refrigeration system, such as remote or self-contained units, will also influence the cost.

Temperature Requirements: Whether you’re installing a cooler or a freezer will affect the price.

To get an accurate cost tailored to your needs, we recommend requesting a customized quote!

Contact Us to get a site visit arranged

What temperature should a cellar cooler be?2024-10-10T08:48:59+00:00

Cellar cooling systems can operate at a range of temperatures typically between 4°C and 16°C. The temperature can be set according to the product you wish to store. The average temperature for a beer cellar or wine cellar is generally circa 12°C.

Contact us if you require assistance with your cellar cooler

Are air conditioning maintenance plans worth it?2024-10-10T08:48:29+00:00

Absolutely! Investing in a maintenance plan offers several significant benefits:

1. Cost Savings:

Regular upkeep can drastically reduce your running costs and enhance energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.

2. Extended Lifespan:

Routine maintenance helps prolong the life of your air conditioning unit, ensuring it operates optimally for years to come.

3. Improved Air Quality and Comfort:

Regular servicing enhances indoor air quality and comfort, making your environment healthier and more enjoyable.

4. Maximize Your Investment:

Most importantly, a maintenance plan is the best way to ensure you get the most out of your investment, providing peace of mind and reliable performance.

In summary, a maintenance plan is a smart choice that pays off in both immediate and long-term benefits!

Contact us for more information

Are air conditioning units permitted development or planning permission?2024-10-10T08:47:55+00:00

Whether an air conditioning unit requires planning permission depends on its size and other factors. Our best advice is to speak to your local council as the rules vary between each authority

Small Systems: Most small air conditioning systems fall under permitted development rights and typically do not require planning permission.

Large Systems: You may need planning permission if your system meets any of the following criteria:

  • It is located less than one meter away from any property boundaries.
  • It is within one meter of the edge of a flat roof.

Other factors that may influence the need for planning permission include:

– The location of the property (e.g., in a conservation area or scenic location).

– If the property is an apartment in a central location.

– If the property is within a conservation area

– If the property is listed building (other applications will have to be obtained)

What area do we cover?2024-10-10T08:47:36+00:00

We cover mainly London, Essex and Hertfordshire but will travel around the south east of England

These are the postcodes and areas we cover:

Air Conditioning Installations & Refrigeration London (drop down read more)

– N1: Islington

– N2: East Finchley

– N3: Finchley Central

– N4: Finsbury Park

– N5: Highbury

– N6: Highgate

– N7: Holloway

– N8: Crouch End

– N9: Lower Edmonton

– N10: Muswell Hill

– N11: New Southgate

– N12: North Finchley

– N13: Palmers Green

– N14: Southgate

– N15: Seven Sisters

– N16: Stoke Newington

– N17: Tottenham

– N18: Upper Edmonton

– N19: Archway

– N20: Whetstone

– N21: Winchmore Hill

– N22: Wood Green

– E1: Whitechapel, Stepney

– E2: Bethnal Green, Shoreditch

– E3: Bow, Bromley-by-Bow

– E4: Chingford

– E5: Clapton

– E6: East Ham

– E7: Forest Gate

– E8: Hackney

– E9: Hackney, Homerton

– E10: Leyton

– E11: Leytonstone

– E12: Manor Park

– E13: Plaistow

– E14: Canary Wharf

– E15: Stratford

– E16: Custom House

– E17: Walthamstow

– E18: South Woodford

– NW1: Camden Town

– NW2: Cricklewood

– NW3: Hampstead

– NW4: Hendon

– NW5: Kentish Town

– NW6: West Hampstead

– NW7: Mill Hill

– SW1: Westminster

– SW2: Brixton

– SW3: Chelsea

– SW4: Clapham

– SW5: Earls Court

– SW6: Fulham

– SW7: South Kensington

– SW8: Vauxhall

– SW9: Brixton

– SW10: Chelsea

Air Conditioning Installations & Refrigeration Hertfordshire

– AL1: St Albans

– AL2: St Albans

– AL3: St Albans

– AL4: Radlett

– AL5: Harpenden

– AL6: Welwyn

– AL7: Welwyn Garden City

– EN1: Enfield

– EN2: Enfield

– EN3: Enfield

– EN4: Barnet

– EN5: Barnet

– EN6: Potters Bar

– WD1: Watford

– WD2: Watford

– WD3: Rickmansworth

– WD4: Kings Langley

– WD5: Abbots Langley

– WD6: Borehamwood

– WD7: Radlett

– WD8: Watford

– SG1: Stevenage

– SG2: Stevenage

– SG3: Hitchin

– SG4: Hitchin

– SG5: Letchworth

Air Conditioning Installations & Refrigeration Essex

– CM1: Chelmsford

– CM2: Chelmsford

– CM3: Chelmsford

– CM4: Billericay

– CM5: Ongar

– CM6: Great Dunmow

– CM7: Braintree

– CM8: Witham

– CM9: Maldon

– RM1: Romford

– RM2: Romford

– RM3: Romford

– RM4: Romford

– RM5: Romford

– RM6: Chadwell Heath

– IG1: Ilford

– IG2: Ilford

– IG3: Ilford

– IG4: Ilford

– IG5: Ilford

– IG6: Ilford

– IG7: Chigwell

Air Conditioning Installations & Refrigeration Bedfordshire

– LU1: Luton

– LU2: Luton

– LU3: Luton

– LU4: Luton

– LU5: Dunstable

– LU6: Dunstable

– MK1: Milton Keynes

– MK2: Milton Keynes

– MK3: Milton Keynes

– MK4: Milton Keynes

– MK5: Milton Keynes

– MK6: Milton Keynes

– MK7: Milton Keynes

– MK8: Milton Keynes

– MK9: Milton Keynes

– MK10: Milton Keynes

– MK11: Milton Keynes

Air Conditioning Installations & Refrigeration Kent

– DA1: Dartford

– DA2: Dartford

– DA3: Longfield

– DA4: Farningham

– DA5: Bexley

– DA6: Bexleyheath

– DA7: Erith

– BR1: Bromley

– BR2: Bromley

– BR3: Beckenham

– BR4: West Wickham

– BR5: Orpington

– BR6: Orpington

– BR7: Chislehurst

Air Conditioning Installations & Refrigeration Surrey

– KT1: Kingston upon Thames

– KT2: Kingston upon Thames

– KT3: New Malden

– KT4: Worcester Park

– KT5: Surbiton

– KT6: Surbiton

– KT7: Thames Ditton

– KT8: East Molesey

– GU1: Guildford

– GU2: Guildford

– GU3: Guildford

– GU4: Guildford

– GU5: Godalming

– GU6: Cranleigh

– GU7: Godalming

– GU9: Farnham

– OX1: Oxford

– OX2: Oxford

– OX3: Oxford

– OX4: Oxford

– CB1: Cambridge

– CB2: Cambridge

– CB3: Cambridge

– CB4: Cambridge

– PE1: Peterborough

– PE2: Peterborough

– NN1: Northampton

– NN2: Northampton

– NN3: Northampton

– NN4: Northampton

– NN5: Northampton

Why is my air conditioning leaking?2024-10-10T08:47:00+00:00

One of the most common reasons for air conditioning leaks is clogged drainage. This blockage can be caused by dirt, dust, and mold, preventing proper water flow. When this happens, water may find alternative paths to escape, resulting in leaks. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to more serious problems, including potential health risks due to mold growth and decreased indoor air quality. It’s essential to address any leaks promptly to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment.

Why use a company with Daikin D1?2024-10-10T08:46:43+00:00

D1 Business Partners benefit from extended warranties, free training, dedicated technical support, marketing resources and a business development fund – so D1 Business Partners can depend on Daikin for a level of service and support that’s unique in the industry.

D1 Business Partners are selected by Daikin UK for their high standards of installation and expertise. Daikin UK also positively encourages and supports D1 Business Partners to become part of independently recognised organisations that look to continually raise industry standards.

All Daikin products typically come with a three year manufacturer’s warranty. However, because of Daikin UK’s belief in the high standard of D1 Business Partner installations, D1 Business Partners  are offered up to seven year warranty (subject to conditions). This benefit can be passed on to the customer, signalling confidence in the quality of both the product and the installation.

 

What Air Conditioning Units are best?2024-10-10T08:46:04+00:00

We highly recommend Daikin and Mitsubishi Electric as top choices for air conditioning systems. These brands are known for their reliability, efficiency, and excellent performance. While there are more affordable options available, your choice ultimately depends on your budget and specific needs. Investing in a quality brand can enhance your comfort and provide long-term value.

Other brands we install are Toshiba, Panasonic, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Midea. We always quote Daikin first as we have a D1 partnership meaning we can offer you 7 year warranty on all Daikin parts

Are Air Conditioning Units Noisy?2024-10-10T08:45:44+00:00

The noise level of air conditioning units can vary. The loudest component is typically the compressor. Portable air conditioners can be quite loud, often reaching up to 55 dBA, because the compressor is housed in the indoor unit. However, modern split system air conditioners, which have the compressor located in the outdoor unit, are much quieter. This design helps minimize noise inside your home, ensuring a more peaceful and comfortable environment.

When the air conditioning units are run in heating mode, that is when they ramp up the pressures in the system, so this is when they are at their loudest. Many units in the Daikin range have a quiet mode for running units at night which is a fantastic feature

Are Air conditioning Units Heat Pumps?2024-10-10T08:45:28+00:00

Yes, air conditioners are technically a type of heat pump known as an air-to-air heat pump. The key difference is that heat pumps have a reversing valve, allowing them to also provide heating.

Here are some additional differences between air conditioners and heat pumps:

  • Purpose: Air conditioners are designed primarily to cool a single room, while heat pumps can meet a home’s heating, hot water, and cooling needs.
  • Cost: Air conditioners are generally less expensive to purchase and install than heat pumps.
  • Installation: Air conditioners are typically straightforward to install, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
  • Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are powered by electricity, making them a more environmentally friendly option compared to systems that rely on fossil fuels.

In the summer, air conditioners and heat pumps function identically by cooling your home, providing comfort during warmer months.

Are Air Conditioning Units Safe?2024-10-10T08:45:09+00:00

A well maintained, clean air conditioning units are absolutely safe and can improve the air quality within a space. However, a badly maintained system can grow mould and smells. We highly recommend you have your system maintained at least once a year- some environments will require 3 or 4 visits a year i.e. gyms, commercial kitchens

Are Air Conditioning Units Expensive to run?2024-10-10T08:44:44+00:00

The cost of running an air conditioner in the UK can vary based on several factors, including:

– Size and Efficiency: Larger or less efficient units generally consume more energy.

– Usage: How frequently and for how long you operate the air conditioner affects costs.

– Climate: Local weather conditions can impact how often you need to use the unit.

– Model: Different models and wattages can result in varying energy consumption.

– Electricity Tariff: Your standard electricity rate plays a significant role in your overall costs.

On average, running an air conditioner in the UK costs between 10 and 25 pence per hour. If you use your air conditioner for six hours a day, you can expect to spend around £25 per month. However, larger or more complex models, such as multi-split systems with multiple outlets, may lead to running costs exceeding £100 per month.

Tips to Reduce Running Costs:

– Keep filters and condensers clean

– Set your air conditioner to a sensible temperature. 21 degrees is the most comfortable temperature and proven to be when humans are most efficient

Why is it important to have your air conditioning maintenance?2024-10-10T08:44:28+00:00

Regularly servicing your air conditioner is essential for several reasons:

  • Efficiency:

Without servicing, air conditioners can lose up to 5% of their efficiency each year. Routine maintenance helps your unit operate more effectively, resulting in:

  – Quicker cooling and heating

  – More efficient power consumption

  – Reduced energy bills

  • Lifespan:

Consistent servicing can nearly double the lifespan of your air conditioner, protecting your investment for years to come.

  • Indoor Air Quality:

Maintenance improves the filtration of air flowing through your system, reducing dust and allergens, which is especially beneficial for those with allergies or respiratory concerns.

  • Avoid Costly Replacements:

Regular check-ups can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

  • Warranty Compliance:

Keeping up with maintenance is often required to uphold your equipment’s warranty.

  • Proactive Problem Solving:

Our professionals can identify and resolve minor issues before they develop into major problems.

We recommend servicing your air conditioner at least once a year to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

If your premises is a high footfall, dusty, or a sweaty environment, we suggest 3 or maybe 4 maintenances per year. We usually would have one major maintenance and then minor filter cleans with condenser cleans- depending on the environment

How much does it cost to install a new air conditioning unit?2024-10-10T08:44:06+00:00

The cost of installing a new air conditioning unit varies based on the space, environment, and location of the system. There are several types of systems and brands available, and we recommend scheduling a site visit to determine the best product for your property.

For wall-mounted units, which are the most economical option to install, prices start at around £1,600 (no VAT on domestic installations). We prefer to use leading brands like Daikin, known for their exceptional warranty and availability of spare parts.

For commercial spaces such as offices, server rooms, shops, restaurants, gyms, and schools, the installation cost can vary significantly. A site survey is essential to assess your specific needs and provide an accurate quote.

How much does it cost for a call-out to diagnose a fault on an air conditioning or refrigeration system?2024-10-10T08:43:47+00:00

Our call-out fee for diagnosing a fault is £130+VAT for the first hour, with no additional charges for travel time. After the first hour, the rate is £95+VAT per hour. Please note that any parking or congestion charges incurred during the visit will be added to your invoice.

How much does maintenance for commercial refrigeration equipment cost?2024-10-10T08:43:28+00:00
  • Ice Machines:

Our comprehensive service includes full descaling, mould removal, new water filters (depending on the brand), and thorough coil checks, starting from £295+VAT.  

  • Cellar Coolers:

If your unit has been maintained by us in the last 12 months, the cost is £180+VAT. For first-time maintenance or if it hasn’t been serviced in over a year, the price is £300+VAT.  

  • Walk-In Fridge:

The maintenance cost is £180+VAT for units we’ve serviced within the last year. For first-time maintenance or systems that haven’t been serviced in over a year, the price is £300+VAT.

  • Commercial Kitchen Fridge (upright, under counter, or bottle fridge):

Maintenance is £85+VAT if we’ve serviced it in the last year. For first-time maintenance or units that haven’t been maintained in over a year, it’s £120+VAT.

How much does air conditioning maintenance cost?2024-10-10T08:42:56+00:00

For our existing customers and units we’ve installed under warranty, the cost for maintaining one unit is £120. For additional units, it’s £95+VAT each.

If your unit hasn’t been serviced by us before, the cost is £180+VAT for the first unit and £130+VAT for each additional one.

We also offer F-Gas Certification alongside your maintenance for £75 per unit, ensuring your system is fully compliant with regulations.

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