Project Overview
Plumb London was engaged by a commercial client — an office and meeting-room facility in De Beauvoir, N1, in the London Borough of Hackney — to address long-overdue maintenance across a multi-unit Mitsubishi Electric air-conditioning system, alongside concerns about noisy ventilation in the building’s basement. An initial survey identified a number of routine servicing needs together with a more significant mechanical fault affecting the condenser unit serving the main office and meeting room. The works were delivered in two phases: a full system service with filter replacement, followed by a controlled diagnostic investigation of the faulty condenser. The project was led by our engineer, Andrew, and ran across two phases between April and June 2025.
The Client’s Brief
The client had identified several issues with the building’s climate control and fresh-air supply and sought a professional assessment and resolution. Their priorities were:
- Replacement of filters across all Mitsubishi air-conditioning units, which had not been serviced for a considerable period
- Investigation of a persistent rattling noise from the fresh-air supply ducting in the basement
- A full system inspection to confirm the operational integrity of the installation
- Completion of the initial works within a defined window, targeting mid-May 2026
Our Survey & Recommendations
A site survey was carried out on 29 April 2026, with a detailed inspection of the air-conditioning and ventilation systems throughout the building. Our findings were:
- Four Mitsubishi units were confirmed on site — two indoor units and two outdoor condenser units — one more than the client had anticipated
- All four units required filter replacement and a full service
- The basement ventilation ducting was insufficiently secured, causing the vibration and rattling the client had reported; fan replacement was flagged as a possible follow-on requirement
- One outdoor condenser unit, serving the main office and meeting room, was producing significant operational noise, indicating a mechanical fault requiring further investigation
- That condenser sat within an enclosed cupboard, meaning it could not be properly assessed in situ — removal would be required for an accurate diagnosis
We advised that the service and filter replacement could proceed as planned, with a separate investigation quotation to follow for the faulty condenser.
Planning & Preparation
Following the survey, two distinct scopes were prepared and presented. Phase One covered the full service and filter replacement across all four units. Phase Two covered refrigerant recovery, pressure testing, and physical removal of the faulty condenser to enable inspection. Crucially, we made clear at the outset that Phase Two would not recommission the affected system: the unit would be left safely isolated after inspection, with a further quotation to follow setting out repair or replacement options based on the findings. The client acknowledged this and approved both phases in sequence — so there were no surprises about what each phase would and would not deliver.
The Work We Carried Out
Phase One — service and filter replacement (all four units):
- Full service of the air-conditioning system across all four units
- Cleaning of filters and accessible internal components
- Inspection and cleaning of evaporator and condenser coils where accessible
- Inspection of condensate drains and discharge operation
- Checks of refrigerant pipework and visible connections
- Testing of controls, operating temperatures and overall performance
- Inspection of electrical connections and isolators where accessible
- Supply and installation of new filters on all four units
- A written report of any faults, wear or maintenance requirements identified
Phase Two — refrigerant recovery and condenser investigation:
- Safe recovery of all refrigerant using certified recovery equipment
- Full pressure test of the refrigerant pipework and associated components, with performance monitored and recorded throughout
- Evacuation of the system to remove moisture and non-condensable gases, then recharge with the correct refrigerant type and quantity to manufacturer specification
- Full decommissioning and physical removal of the condenser from its enclosure
- Detailed inspection of the condenser and associated components
- System left safely isolated pending diagnosis and written recommendations
A formal testimonial was not collected for this project; the client engaged Plumb London across both phases without reservation, and the works were completed to their full satisfaction. References are available on request.
Timeline & Completion
The survey took place on 29 April 2026. Phase One was completed within its allocated half-day slot by our engineer, Andrew. While the client’s original target was mid-May, the booking was confirmed for 1 June 2026 to suit their scheduling. Phase Two was programmed to follow, with timing agreed around the building’s operational needs — including vacating the office area during refrigerant recovery, owing to the noise of the recovery equipment.
Challenges & How We Solved Them
Restricted access to the faulty condenser. The condenser serving the main office and meeting room sat within an enclosed, externally vented cupboard, making meaningful diagnosis impossible in situ. We recommended full decommissioning and removal as part of Phase Two, so a thorough, accurate assessment could be carried out without compromising safety or diagnostic quality.
Noisy basement ventilation ducting. The reported rattle was traced to insufficiently secured ducting vibrating in operation. We identified and documented this clearly at survey stage and flagged fan replacement as a possible follow-on, keeping the client informed so they could plan and budget accordingly.
Refrigerant recovery and operational disruption. Recovery equipment is loud, making the office unsuitable for occupation during the process. We coordinated directly with the client to schedule the works and ensure the relevant areas were vacated for the duration, minimising disruption to the wider team.
Scope confirmed beyond the original brief. The client believed there were three units on site; the survey confirmed four. Rather than proceed on the original assumption, we documented all four and ensured the scope and quotation reflected the full picture — avoiding incomplete works or unexpected costs later.
The Finished Result
Phase One delivered a fully serviced, clean and correctly filtered system across all four units, with coils and drainage inspected, pipework checked, and electrical and operational performance confirmed — backed by a clear written summary of every observation made on site. Phase Two gave the client a controlled, professionally managed investigation of the faulty condenser: refrigerant safely recovered, the system pressure-tested and evacuated, and the unit removed from its enclosure for full inspection. Those findings now form the basis of a follow-on quotation, giving the client an evidenced choice between repair and replacement rather than guesswork. Across both phases the client gained transparent communication, a methodical and safe approach, and a complete picture of a system that had not been formally assessed for several years.
Project Investment
Phase One (service and filter replacement) was quoted at £1,100 plus VAT, and Phase Two (refrigerant recovery and condenser investigation) at £1,150 plus VAT — £2,250 plus VAT combined. For a commercial environment where temperature control and air quality directly affect staff comfort and productivity, the cost of reactive emergency repairs after a full system failure will almost always exceed that of planned, preventative maintenance. These works gave the client a detailed, evidence-based understanding of their system’s condition and a clear path forward — significant value against the risk of unplanned downtime.
Why Choose Plumb London
- Honest, transparent advice. We identify and communicate the full scope of any works, including issues discovered beyond the original brief.
- A phased approach to complex works. You are never committed beyond what has been fully diagnosed and agreed.
- Clear quotations and written reports. You always understand exactly what you are paying for, and why.
- Engineer continuity. Wherever possible we keep the same engineer on your building, so site knowledge is retained across visits.
- Coordinated, considerate scheduling. We work around your operations to minimise disruption to your business and team.
- Compliance and documentation. Works are carried out to current regulations, with the records businesses and managing agents need for tenants, insurers and audits.
- Broad expertise across commercial heating, plumbing, drainage and climate control, backed by established manufacturer relationships including Mitsubishi Electric, Vaillant and Daikin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a commercial air-conditioning system be serviced? For most commercial systems, an annual service is the minimum recommended. Buildings with higher occupancy, dustier environments or systems running continuously may benefit from twice-yearly servicing. Regular maintenance extends equipment life, maintains efficiency, and identifies faults before they escalate into costly failures.
What does an air-conditioning service typically include? A standard service covers cleaning of filters and internal components, inspection of coils and condensate drains, checks of refrigerant pipework and electrical connections, and testing of overall performance and operating temperatures. Any observations are reported to the client in writing.
Why does refrigerant recovery require the office to be vacated? The recovery machine used to safely remove refrigerant operates at a high noise level, making the area unsuitable for occupation during the process. We work closely with clients to schedule these works at a time that minimises disruption, while keeping the process safe and efficient.
After the condenser investigation, will the system be left working? No — following the investigation the system is left in a safe, isolated state while findings are assessed and a further quotation prepared. This gives the client a clear, properly diagnosed choice between repair and replacement; recommissioning forms part of the subsequent phase once an option is agreed.
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.
