Project Overview
A residential property in Chiswick, W4, needed two related air conditioning works: a high-level repair to a leaking condensate pipe on an existing Samsung multi-split system, and the full supply and installation of a new 5.3kW split air conditioning system to serve a kitchen extension. Following an initial engineer survey, both works were scoped and delivered together as a single programme. The project was completed to a high standard, with the new Worcester Bosch CL7000i system fully commissioned and the pre-existing condensate leak resolved, leaving the client with a clean, functional and professionally finished installation throughout.
The Client’s Brief
The client contacted us after noticing a water leak from the outdoor pipework of their existing Samsung air conditioning system. Access to the affected area required high-level ladder access at approximately three to four metres above ground level. During the initial survey visit, the client also expressed interest in adding a new air conditioning system to serve the kitchen. Their requirements were:
- Diagnosis and repair of the existing condensate pipe leak at high level
- Supply and installation of a new split system for the kitchen
- Clean, aesthetically considered pipework routing with black trunking to complement the property exterior
- Wi-Fi control capability for the new system
- Minimal disruption to the property during works
Our Survey & Recommendations
Our engineer attended site and carried out a full inspection of the existing system. The condensate leak was traced to the high-level trunking where the pipework exits the building. The condensate pipe was found to be moving excessively, expanding and contracting with system operation, and had become disconnected at the elbow joint. The leak was only present when the system was running, which had made it difficult to identify without a live inspection.
The survey also assessed the kitchen for the new split system installation. The flat roof of the kitchen extension was identified as the appropriate location for the outdoor condenser unit, offering adequate clearance for airflow and ease of future maintenance access. The indoor unit was agreed to be positioned at high level on the external kitchen wall, with refrigerant pipework dropping down the external elevation and penetrating through the side wall.
A third-party electrician would be needed to install an outdoor power supply before our attendance, a standard requirement for new split system installations where a dedicated supply doesn’t already exist.
Planning & Preparation
Following the survey, we issued a detailed quotation covering both the condensate repair and the new kitchen split system. The client was presented with the Worcester Bosch CL7000i as the selected system, a 5.3kW reverse-cycle heat pump with integrated Wi-Fi control via the Worcester Bosch IP-Gateway. At the time of quotation, stock availability was limited, and the client was advised accordingly. Works were approved and scheduled once the third-party electrical supply had been confirmed as ready.
The Work We Carried Out
Condensate repair, existing system
- High-level ladder access to existing pipework at approximately three to four metres
- Inspected and repaired the disconnected condensate pipe at the elbow joint within external trunking
- Re-secured and tested the condensate pipework to prevent recurrence
New kitchen split system, Worcester Bosch CL7000i 5.3kW
- Carried out site preparation, pre-installation checks, and confirmed all equipment positions
- Installed the interconnecting cable between indoor and outdoor units
- Routed cable runs in preparation for connection to the third-party outdoor power supply
- Installed refrigerant pipework from the condenser on the flat roof, down the external elevation, through a side wall penetration
- Fully insulated pipework to manufacturer and F-Gas standards
- Finished all exposed external pipework in black trunking
- Pressure tested pipework before equipment connection
- Sealed the wall penetration on completion
- Fixed the indoor unit backplate to the external kitchen wall at the agreed high-level position
- Connected refrigerant pipework, electrical interconnect, and condensate drainage to the indoor unit
- Tied condensate into existing drain pipework
- Positioned and secured the condenser unit on the flat roof with adequate airflow clearance
- Connected refrigerant pipework and electrical supply to the condenser
- Carried out vacuum and leak checks on the full refrigerant circuit
- Commissioned the system in accordance with Worcester Bosch manufacturer guidelines
- Completed full operational testing and client handover, including a demonstration of the Wi-Fi controls
- Removed all waste materials and left the site clean and tidy
A formal written testimonial was not obtained for this project. The installation was completed to the client's satisfaction, with positive feedback received on the quality of finish and the professionalism of the attending engineers.
Timeline & Completion
Works were carried out across a planned programme, attended by Andrew, our head commercial air-conditioning engineer, following confirmation that the third-party electrical supply was in place. The project was delivered on schedule with no overruns, in line with the programme agreed with the client ahead of works commencing.
Challenges & How We Solved Them
High-level access
Both the condensate repair and elements of the new installation needed working at height, up to four metres on the side elevation of the property. Our engineers had appropriate ladder access equipment on site from the outset, with safe working practices observed throughout. This was identified at survey stage and factored into both the programme and pricing, avoiding any surprises on the day.
Diagnosing an intermittent leak
The condensate leak on the existing system was only present when the unit was running, making it difficult to locate without a live inspection. Our engineer ran the system during the survey visit to replicate the fault, allowing the source to be traced accurately to the elbow joint within the high-level trunking. This avoided a return visit and meant the repair was targeted and effective.
Coordinating third-party electrical works
The new split system needed an outdoor power supply installed by a separate electrician before our installation could proceed. We communicated this requirement clearly at quotation stage, confirmed readiness before booking the installation date, and made sure no delays resulted from the dependency.
Pipework routing and aesthetics
Routing refrigerant pipework externally on a residential property in a well-presented area of Chiswick needed careful consideration. All exposed runs were finished in black trunking, giving a clean, considered finish that the client had specifically requested.
The Finished Result
The project delivered two distinct but complementary outcomes. The existing condensate leak, which had gone unresolved due to its height and intermittent nature, was located, repaired and tested, removing the risk of ongoing water damage to the property. The new kitchen split system was installed cleanly and professionally, with the Worcester Bosch CL7000i providing both cooling and heating capability, Wi-Fi control via the Worcester Bosch app, and an efficient reverse-cycle heat pump system that qualifies for the current 0% VAT relief.
The finished installation presents well externally, with black trunking giving a uniform, tidy appearance across all exposed pipework runs. The client received a full system demonstration and handover, leaving them confident in operating and maintaining their new equipment.
Project Investment
Total investment: £2,987.32, with no VAT applied. Under current UK legislation, the installation of domestic air conditioning systems operating as reverse-cycle heat pumps, providing both heating and cooling, qualifies for 0% VAT on both supply and installation. This relief is in place until 31 March 2027, after which it will revert to the standard 5% rate. Clients considering new air conditioning installations may wish to act before this date to benefit from the current rate.
Why Choose Plumb London
- Over 35 years of experience. We’ve served residential and commercial clients across London since the late 1980s, and we’re a family-run business, that shows in how we work
- Honest surveying, transparent quoting. We identify the full scope of works at survey stage and price accordingly, no surprises on the day, no hidden costs
- F-Gas certified engineers. All refrigeration and air conditioning works are carried out by fully qualified, F-Gas registered engineers in compliance with current regulations
- Clean, considered installations. We take pride in how our work looks, not just how it performs, pipework routing, trunking finishes and equipment positioning are all considered as part of the installation
- One point of contact. From initial enquiry through to handover, you deal with the same team. We manage third-party dependencies, programme coordination and any on-site issues so you don’t have to
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate electrician for air conditioning installation?
In most cases, yes. New split systems need a dedicated power supply, which must be installed by a qualified electrician. We’ll advise you of this at survey stage and can often recommend trusted electrical contractors if needed. Works are programmed so electrical first fix is completed before our installation attendance.
What is the current VAT rate on domestic air conditioning?
Until 31 March 2027, the installation of domestic reverse-cycle air conditioning systems, those that provide both heating and cooling, qualifies for 0% VAT under current HMRC legislation. This represents a meaningful saving on the total project cost. After this date, the rate is expected to revert to 5%.
Can you repair an existing air conditioning system as well as install a new one?
Yes. As this project shows, we carry out fault diagnosis and repair work on existing systems alongside new installations. If you have a pre-existing issue, we’ll always assess it at survey stage and include any recommended remedial works within the same programme where possible.
How high can your engineers work, and do you carry your own access equipment?
Our engineers are trained to work at height and attend with appropriate access equipment as required. For this project, high-level ladder access at approximately four metres was needed for both the condensate repair and elements of the new installation. Access requirements are always assessed and planned at survey stage.
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Customer Testimonials
Don’t just take our word for it, here’s a selection of the latest reviews. You can view more here.
Excellent service by Plumb London, fixed two bathroom related issues in a couple of days - clear communication and good management of expectations in terms of works and timeline, which I always apprec..Read More
Sandra Obradovic
Really happy with the service from Plumb London for my toilet repair. We're quick to attend and Charlie was very knowledgeable, getting the specific part needed and even providing advice on some other..Read More
Darren Phillips
Plumb London were brilliant from quote to completion. Firstly, they are very competitively priced and I had very little hesitation going with their quote for a new boiler. I was also really impressed ..Read More
Ashley Watkinson
Our boiler was leaking and Nicola fixed it the day it happened. Highly recommended!
Kathy Weston
Brilliant service, friendly engineer and a job completed quickly and tidily. I would use the company again if I ever need to. Swanscombe, Kent
Collin Best
Plumb London were able to come quickly and fix my problem without fuss, quoting a sensible price.
Robert Slater
My toilet seat was broken and previous plumbers I contacted told me it was a non-standard toilet and I had to get a new toilet. I invited over Plumb London and they told me that the toilet seat can be..Read More
Geoffrey Payne
Plumb London provided excellent service from start to finish! The boiler installation was quick, tidy, and professionally done. A year later, the same engineer carried out an efficient and thorough ma..Read More
George Ezeanaka
Fantastic experience all around. The customer service team at PlumbLondon is not only responsive and super-friendly, but actually take initiative - we had our job done a day early because a team membe..Read More
Eleanor Franzén
Plumb London carried out a boiler and gas safety check for me. They were quick to get booked in, the team were polite and professional, and their pricing was more competitive than others I contacted. ..Read More
Louise Kaufhold
A Five Star service. The range of skills and craftsmanship displayed by Mounir were incredible. Would recommend to anyone with dreams of creating a Dream Kitchen. With this Team, it’s not just possi..Read More
Trevor Beattie
Easy to communicate with and quick work to solve the problem we had
Josh Evans
Excellent service from start to finish, everything was handled professionally and efficiently. Communication was clear throughout, and Louise did a great job coordinating everything and keeping me in..Read More
Claire Willis
Plumb London were brilliant. Stephan turned up on time, was very personable and was very efficient. Would definitely recommend and will be using again in future.
Eleanor Rider
For the second year in a row, the lovely Mo serviced our boiler. He was on time and provided a super thorough service. I would really recommend Plumb London as your plumbing company. 5 stars all round..Read More
Dianah Jane Coleman
Very fast service. We got our boiler changed as an emergency a year ago, and got service this year. Both times Plumb London were booked within 24h of being called, with the team taking good care of en..Read More
Alexandra Fleming
Great professional service from start to finish. The team did an excellent job installing a Powertank and paid close attention to detail throughout. I’ve used them a couple of times now and have alw..Read More
Kevin Senior
Absolutely exceptional service. Cannot recommend enough. Polite, attentive and understanding of the situation. Par and Stephan who attended my property were courteous and professional, making the horr..Read More
Max Hurd
I can’t fault the service I received. Prompt, courteous and so accommodating. It’s so easy to be ripped off, PlumbLondon are overwhelmingly decent, thorough and reliable. A million percent recomme..Read More
Kate Comer
Amazing job the works is done very professionally I will not hesitate to use your company again and recommend to friends.
Renato Balane
Fantastic service, efficient and easy to organise. Reliable and fair pricing
Jane Renton-Rose
Very professional and comprehensive service.
Stuart Highley
Fast service (next day) for the initial assessment of the issue. Then, even though it was not an emergency per se (needed broken shower pump replaced and associated inter-connecting pipe work), the te..Read More
Jeff Smith
a five-star service
David Akers
I had a great experience with Plumb London. They came out quickly to inspect an issue with my water tank, identified the problem right away, and got everything sorted efficiently. The engineer was pro..Read More
Patrick Fuller
Delighted with the service from Plumb London on a number of occasions. Very reliable and professional.
Thomas Jacques
good job well done boiler replacement
Deirdre Bell
Excellent service from engineer who attended to change kitchen tap. Punctual, courteous and knowledgeable. Got the job done despite an unexpected issue with some complex piping (resolved on the spot)...Read More
Constantia Smith
Contacted Plumb London hi Charlie, come round and give me a quote within days. Carried out. I ordered all the parts and even matched The new tiles with the existing. Hardly recommend them very profess..Read More
Vimal Sharma
Very professional. The work was carried out efficiently and quickly.
matt o'neill
Amazing job the works is done very professionally I will not hesitate to use your company again and recommend to friends.
Renato Balane
Fantastic service, efficient and easy to organise. Reliable and fair pricing
Jane Renton-Rose
We recently worked with Plumb London at AKA Marylebone and were extremely impressed with their professionalism and technical expertise. The project involved complex plantroom systems and ongoing comm..Read More
shellie-ann delaney
Excellent service. I've used Plumb London multiple times and they're always professional (they pick up the phone and arrive when they say they will). For example, my boiler had been leaking but only o..Read More
Sebastian Robinson
The initial consultation from Plumb London was excellent, and then a call received quickly do explain a detailed quote. The appointment for the work was quick and the work to the bathroom carried out ..Read More
Nick M
Had a new boiler installed 4 years ago, best decision. They have looked after it well and every service is efficient, quick and easy. They are fantastic to book with, always answer the phone and any i..Read More
Milly Smith
Big thumbs up for Plumb London, in particular the engineer (Andrew) who visited the property where my elderly mother lives. A gentle manner and patient approach was exactly the level of kindness that ..Read More
Patrick Totty
Prompt and efficient service from Plumb London. A clear and comprehensive quote was provided and the job was completed well. Our ancient boiler completely stopped working and they were able to visit t..Read More
Simone Thomas
Plumb London were absolutely incredible. We were in an emergency situation, and Jack did everything he possibly could to get a new boiler out to us as quickly as possible. He also liaised directly wit..Read More
Lily Macpherson
Fabulous and prompt service. Kept up to date; great communication.
Paula Kennedy
Great job, quick efficient and fair price
Daniel Dean
Delighted with the service from Plumb London on a number of occasions. Very reliable and professional.
Thomas Jacques
The service from Plumb London was prompt and they have solved the problem as I have still not had a complaint from my tenants It was very easy to deal.with the staff at Plumb London.
Shubha Kasbekar
Excellent service from engineer who attended to change kitchen tap. Punctual, courteous and knowledgeable. Got the job done despite an unexpected issue with some complex piping (resolved on the spot)...Read More
Constantia Smith
Excellent service by Plumb London, fixed two bathroom related issues in a couple of days - clear communication and good management of expectations in terms of works and timeline, which I always apprec..Read More
Sandra Obradovic
Really happy with the service from Plumb London for my toilet repair. We're quick to attend and Charlie was very knowledgeable, getting the specific part needed and even providing advice on some other..Read More
Darren Phillips
Contact Plumb London
If you are facing a plumbing, heating, boiler or drainage issue in London, do not hesitate to get in touch with Plumb London. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to assist you with all your plumbing needs. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and experience the difference with Plumb London.
