Information for building managers
In collaboration with the states and territories (except Tasmania), the government has agreed to phase out greenhouse-gas intensive (electric resistance) water heaters in Australian homes.
Under the phase-out, households will be unable to install greenhouse-gas intensive water heaters in new or existing residential detached, semi-detached, terrace, row or town houses (Class 1 buildings). Existing electric water heaters can remain in use until they break down and a new unit needs to be installed.
How does the phase-out impact on the buildings that I manage?
Currently the phase-out is targeting Class 1 buildings. The requirements for new and existing Class 1 buildings are discussed below. A Class 1 building is defined as a detached, semi-detached, terrace, row or town house.
An extension of the phase-out to new Class 2 buildings (apartments, flats and high rises) is currently being investigated.
New Class 1 buildings
The phase-out has already begun in Class 1 buildings across the country. Changes to the Building Code of Australia 2010 prevent the installation of electric hot water heaters in new buildings. All states and territories except Tasmania, Victoria and the Northern Territory have adopted these new rules.
Existing Class 1 buildings
During 2012, it is planned that electric hot water heaters will no longer be able to be installed in any existing Class 1 building nationally (excluding Tasmania). Implementation will be through state and territory plumbing regulations.
So far South Australia and Queensland have commenced a staged phase-out for existing houses in specific areas (reticulated natural gas or metro areas). Refer to Phase-out of greenhouse intensive hot water heaters for up-to-date information and details for state and territory specific information.
Class 2 buildings
The practicality of extending the phase-out to Class 2 buildings is currently being assessed. Any extension of the phase-out is not expected to apply until at least 2013. Research projects evaluating the costs and benefits of applying the phase-out to new Class 2 buildings are in progress.
What types of hot water heaters can I use?
There are several hot water technologies available that are considered low emission water heaters. Knowing in advance the options that will be available and appropriate for different circumstances will make the transition smoother. With some consideration and research, the purchase of a new hot water heater should be relatively simple. Different hot water heaters are more suited to certain environments than others and running costs should also be taken into consideration – particularly if moving from an off-peak electricity tariff to a day rate or time-of-use tariff.
Solar
Depending on the location of the dwelling, solar hot water heaters can generally provide between 60 and 90 percent of a household’s hot water requirements. They may not be suitable for all areas, depending on factors such as roof suitability (space, pitch, orientation, potential shading etc), climate, and inlet water temperature. Solar systems can be boosted with electric, natural gas or LPG heating.
Heat pumps
Air-sourced heat pumps are a form of water heater that absorb heat from the outside air and transfer it into stored water. Although they run on electricity, they are approximately three times more efficient than standard electric resistance systems. They are most effective in warm climates but some models are able to continue to operate in temperatures below freezing.
While running, heat pumps make a noise similar to an air conditioner unit. In townhouse complexes where houses may be located close together, noise levels can be a consideration when choosing a heat pump. It is also important to be aware of any relevant noise restrictions that local councils may have in place.
Gas (natural and LPG)
Gas water heaters can reduce water heating costs and produce less greenhouse-gas emissions than a comparable electric water heater. Townhouses not located in reticulated natural gas areas are able to install LPG systems. While the cost of LPG is higher than natural gas, households with low hot water use may find it cost effective.
Disposal of flue gases for gas water heaters can be a consideration in multi-storey or high density developments due to the close proximity of living units, so care must be taken to ensure the relevant codes and standards are complied with.
More information
More information on system types and the phase-out can be found at Greenhouse intensive hot water phase out.