Madrid, Spain – Spanish authorities have tightened controls on air conditioning installations, threatening violators with severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines of up to €20,000. This comes as part of their efforts to strengthen safety standards and ensure compliance with environmental and technical regulations.
Authorities emphasized that air conditioning installation and maintenance must be carried out only by certified technicians and companies, given that these units contain refrigerants subject to strict European regulations. Furthermore, illegal handling of these refrigerants could lead to environmental damage and public safety risks.
She explained that the violations include installing appliances without a license, using substandard refrigerants, or having maintenance performed by unqualified individuals. These violations can result in hefty fines. In some cases, the penalty may even extend to criminal prosecution and imprisonment.
This increased enforcement comes as demand for air conditioning units rises due to the frequent heat waves that Spain experiences during the summer. The government is working to curb illegal practices and ensure full compliance with environmental protection and consumer safety standards.
