He will use his more than 30 years’ experience in the sector to manage a dedicated team of engineers specialising in the installation, repair, and maintenance of commercial air conditioning systems.

The facilities maintenance firm has always dealt with air conditioning as part of its range of business-critical services, including heating, plumbing, electricals, and refrigeration. However, the launch of a dedicated team reflects the growth of the technology in Britain, as well as the importance of maintaining correct levels of ventilation.

Nic Smith, co-owner and managing director of Gateshead-headquartered CMS, said: “We work with many national clients who increasingly want us to maintain all their building services, not just the heating or plumbing, as it’s far more efficient and cost effective.

“Most buildings, whether offices, shops, schools, leisure centres or warehouses, have commercial air conditioning to cool, heat and circulate the air to maintain correct quality and temperature.

“We also work with many hospitals, care homes, and hotels where the importance of air conditioning was highlighted during the pandemic as a way of reducing virus spread.

“Many existing clients are increasingly asking us to maintain their air conditioning and this move is about improving the quality and range of our service.”

Mr Mclachlan, who has been appointed national air conditioning manager, said: “I’m excited to join CMS and to use my wealth of experience as an engineer and manager to help grow the business further.

“It’s also a fantastic opportunity for me personally as this is a progressive company that will allow me to take my career to the next level.”

“There are a great deal of legislative requirements and user responsibilities surrounding air conditioning, including mandatory inspections, leak checks and keeping maintenance and service records.

“CMS can ensure that building managers and owners remain compliant and that their air conditioning units operate correctly with maximum efficiency.”