F-Gas Exempt Systems UK: Which Equipment Does Not Require F-Gas Certification?

Are All Refrigeration Systems Covered by UK F-Gas Regulations?

While UK F-Gas Regulations cover the vast majority of refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems, there are specific categories of equipment and substances that are either exempt or fall outside the main certification requirements. Understanding these exemptions helps engineers and operators identify where standard F-Gas rules do and do not apply.

Systems Using Non-F-Gas Refrigerants

F-Gas Regulations only apply to fluorinated greenhouse gases (HFCs and HFOs) and blends containing them. Equipment using natural refrigerants — such as R290 propane, R600a isobutane, R744 CO2 and R717 ammonia — is not subject to F-Gas certification requirements for the handling of the refrigerant itself. Note that natural refrigerant systems are still subject to other regulations (health and safety, DSEAR, COSHH etc.).

Hermetically Sealed Equipment Below Threshold

Hermetically sealed small systems (such as domestic refrigerators) are generally exempt from mandatory leak checking requirements when below the 5 tonne CO2e threshold. However, the refrigerant must still be recovered correctly on disposal — it cannot be vented.

Mobile Refrigeration and Transport

Transport refrigeration using refrigerants in vehicle AC systems (mobile AC) is covered by a separate regulatory framework. However, the general principle of no venting and proper recovery still applies.

What Is NOT Exempt

Any stationary equipment containing HFCs (including R32, R410A, R407C and R404A) requires F-Gas certified engineers for installation, servicing, leak checking and recovery — regardless of system size or charge weight.

Browse our full refrigerant range for all F-Gas and natural refrigerant options.