Williams’ continual investment programme in our in-house design, research and development facilities, not only in the UK but also China and Australia, keeps us at the forefront of refrigeration technology, developing products that will shape the future. We use the very latest techniques to ensure that every product is the best it can be, in every way, from temperature control, ergonomic design, aesthetics and energy efficiency to performance, reliability and sustainability. Using Best Available Technology (BAT) such as 3D modelling, airflow analysis and thermography, we test each aspect of the design’s operation as we strive to deliver the market’s most innovative refrigeration equipment.
Williams’ reputation for refrigeration excellence stretches beyond the industry. We play an integral role in Eco Design and the regulatory framework: our technical director sits on the EU Standards Committee and is a member of SIRAC technical forum and BRA industry working group.
F Gas
The F Gas regulations became UK law in July 2007 - the aim being to reduce environmental damage caused by the leakage of fluorinated gases used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. The regulations make end users responsible for maintaining equipment, identifying refrigerant leaks and their subsequent repairs. There are tough penalties for non-compliance of the regulations, so it is in the operator’s interests to use competent, specialist contractors, installers and service providers to maintain the equipment. The regulations affect equipment that is charged with 3kg of refrigerant (or 6kg if hermetically sealed). However, Williams reach-in cabinets and counters contain less than the 3kg limit, as do many of our modular products, which are also hermetically sealed. In addition, Williams products are designed with containment in mind from the outset - from design, through manufacture to installation, commissioning, service and maintenance.
WEEE Directive
In accordance with the WEEE Directive (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), Williams offers a comprehensive scheme for the decommissioning and removal of products. Because all our products are 98% recyclable, you can be sure that the refrigeration you buy today won’t be landfill in thirty years time.
BREEAM
Provides recognition for low environmental impact buildings. It gives assurance that best environmental practice is incorporated into a building. The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) is the leading and most widely used environmental assessment method for buildings, setting the standard for best practice in sustainable design. Williams works closely with foodservice consultants on many major projects helping them to gain valuable BREEAM points for the end-user. For example, we offer internal thermal imaging of our coldrooms within our handover documentation, proving that the client is receiving a box that has a tight thermal seal for all panel joints - compliant with The Institute of Refrigeration’s Code of Practice.
Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC)
This mandatory scheme is aimed at improving energy efficiency and cutting emissions in large public and private sector organisations, which are collectively responsible for around 10% of the UK’s emissions. It features a range of reputational, behavioural and financial drivers which aim to encourage organisations to develop energy management strategies that promote a better understanding of energy usage. Organisations are eligible for CRC if they (and their subsidiaries) have at least one half-hourly electricity meter (HHM) settled on the half-hourly market. Organisations that consumed more than 6k megawatt-hours (MWh) per year of half hourly metered electricity during 2008 qualify for full participation and register with the Environment Agency, who is the administrator for the scheme. Williams work with consultants and managers on CRC projects, recommending energy-saving equipment and advice on best practices.
Minimum Energy Performance Standard (MEPS)
The Minimum Energy Performance Standard came into effect on July 1st 2016, set by The European Commission to limit the maximum amount of energy that may be consumed by a product, while in operation. The temperature and energy performance are tested and ranked from A-G against the Test Standard and is displayed in the form of an energy label. Initially the new EU legislation affects all professional refrigerated storage cabinets and counters only. It does not apply to products such as blast chillers, bottle coolers, display refrigeration and prep counters with ingredient wells, although these will follow at a later date, still to be determined.
Latest energy grades, MEPS guide and technical information are available in our info centre.