5 May 2008
Home owners are set to save money through strengthened energy efficiency rules for new hot water systems.
From December 2008, all new domestic hot water systems in either new or refurbished homes will need to meet more stringent energy efficiency standards.
The new Building Code requirements are expected to save the average homeowner at least 13% in water heating costs, with minimal extra investment needed up front.
Most homeowners with average-sized homes will be able to comply by installing water efficient showerheads. These can halve the amount of hot water used, with no noticeable loss in the quality of the shower.
Other options for complying include modern technologies such as solar water heating; instantaneous gas hot water and shower drain heat recovery units (a device that recovers heat from hot water going down the drain).
To make compliance easier, the Department of Building and Housing will publish a simple computer programme that homeowners and designers will be able to use to work out if their system complies with the new requirements. The programme will be available on the internet.
For more information:
