7 Stars NatHERS & Whole of Home
The National Construction Code 2022 (NCC 2022) is set to raise the minimum thermal comfort standards for new homes from 6 to 7 stars out of 10, as per NatHERS ratings. Furthermore, the Whole of Home Rating will provide an annual energy consumption limit for various fixed appliances (including heating, cooling, hot water systems, lighting, pool, and spa pumps) will be implemented, with the possibility of compensating through the use of rooftop solar energy.
When will the changes begin?
The updated energy efficiency requirements outlined in NCC 2022 are currently accessible, enabling the construction sector to make essential adaptations and align new projects with the heightened standards. Throughout the transition phase, homes can be constructed according to either the NCC 2019 or the improved NCC 2022 criteria. These new standards will become compulsory starting from 1 Oct 2023 for all states and teritorries except Victoria where the changes will take effect from May 1, 2024.
What are the most cost effective ways to reach 7 stars?
In most instances, meeting the new standards can involve relatively straightforward and cost-effective changes, especially if the design is addressed at the outset of a new home construction project. Notable distinctions between a 6-star and 7-star home might encompass:
Block OrientationVIC/ACT/Southern NSW/SA/TAS When selecting a site for your home, ensure that it allows for the placement of living areas where you spend the most time on the north side of the house. This orientation takes advantage of the winter sun, ensuring warmth, brightness, and ample natural light in these spaces. Conversely, minimize windows facing west or east, and provide effective shading for hot summer months. Reduce south-facing windows, as they receive minimal winter sun.
Building MaterialsThe best choice of materials for a house in VIC/ACT/Southern NSW/SA/TAS are: Floor: Concrete Slab with R1.8 underslab insulation (provides great heat mass) Walls: Ground Floor: Brick/Hebel/Concrete with minimum R2.5 insulation plus foil Walls: First Floor: EPS/Hebel with minimum R2.5 insulation plus foil Windows: UPVC is the now and future although Thermally broken Aluminium windows are a great choice as well Roof: Metal with minimum R6.0 insulation and R1.3 foil backed blanket Draught Proofing Your HomeUp to 25% of winter heat loss from not preperly made homes results from air leakage or draughts. To save money and energy by minimizing air leakage:Ensure proper building techniques, including insulation installation and hole sealing during construction.Use high-quality, weather-sealed external doors and windows.Install self-closing extraction fans to reduce heat loss.Avoid downlights, which require ceiling holes and disturb insulation, or use approved downlight covers to minimize fire risk and protect insulation.Verify that your home meets acceptable air leakage rates through building and testing procedures.For renovations, inquire whether your builder conducts third-party 'as-built' verification checks to confirm compliance with acceptable air leakage rates.
Efficient LightingOptimize lighting design and leverage natural light to reduce ongoing energy expenses. Ensure that your electrician selects lights and covers that adhere to Australian electrical safety standards.
Energy-Efficient AppliancesWhen purchasing appliances such as refrigerators, televisions, washing machines, and dishwashers, prioritize energy-efficient models with high energy star ratings. Despite potential upfront costs, these appliances will yield long-term savings.
Energy-Efficient Hot Water SystemsAlthough solar hot water systems may entail higher upfront costs for purchase and installation, their operational expenses are significantly lower. The check with you local Government if it offers rebates for eligible households investing in solar hot water systems.
InsulationInsulation is a one-time investment with long-term benefits. Insulate your home's ceiling, walls, and floors to potentially reduce running costs by up to 45%. Ensure proper insulation installation, without gaps and with proper waterproofing. Inquire if your builder conducts third-party 'as-built' verification checks for insulation.
Solar PowerConsider installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system to generate renewable energy and lower your electricity bills. With Whole of Home most new builds do require the instalation of PV systems.
VentilationBalancing efforts to reduce air leakage with controlled ventilation is essential. Both windows and exhaust fans can help maintain indoor air quality while minimizing unwanted air leakage. Effective ventilation enhances comfort, savings, and health.
Waste MinimizationA significant portion of construction waste is recyclable, such as concrete, bricks, and timber. Inquire about your builder's waste minimization strategy and documentation.
WaterSave water by exploring water recycling systems and selecting water-saving fittings and appliances. Design kitchens and wet areas for flexibility to accommodate future design, usage, and technology changes.
Window Frames, Glazing, and ShadingSmart window design and external shading can ensure year-round comfort. Double glazing, which has become more cost-effective, reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Energy-efficient windows can cut heat loss through windows by up to 50% compared to single-glazed windows.
Zoning and Efficient Heating and CoolingDesigning zones within your home enables efficient heating and cooling of individual rooms. Doors provide effective zoning, minimizing heating or cooling costs in unused areas. Choose energy-efficient heating and cooling systems to reduce energy consumption and associated costs. Sliding doors may be less effective due to air gaps in the recess.
Selecting energy-efficient strategies and materials aligns with principles of sustainability, cost savings, and comfort in your home.
Block OrientationVIC/ACT/Southern NSW/SA/TAS When selecting a site for your home, ensure that it allows for the placement of living areas where you spend the most time on the north side of the house. This orientation takes advantage of the winter sun, ensuring warmth, brightness, and ample natural light in these spaces. Conversely, minimize windows facing west or east, and provide effective shading for hot summer months. Reduce south-facing windows, as they receive minimal winter sun.
Building MaterialsThe best choice of materials for a house in VIC/ACT/Southern NSW/SA/TAS are: Floor: Concrete Slab with R1.8 underslab insulation (provides great heat mass) Walls: Ground Floor: Brick/Hebel/Concrete with minimum R2.5 insulation plus foil Walls: First Floor: EPS/Hebel with minimum R2.5 insulation plus foil Windows: UPVC is the now and future although Thermally broken Aluminium windows are a great choice as well Roof: Metal with minimum R6.0 insulation and R1.3 foil backed blanket Draught Proofing Your HomeUp to 25% of winter heat loss from not preperly made homes results from air leakage or draughts. To save money and energy by minimizing air leakage:Ensure proper building techniques, including insulation installation and hole sealing during construction.Use high-quality, weather-sealed external doors and windows.Install self-closing extraction fans to reduce heat loss.Avoid downlights, which require ceiling holes and disturb insulation, or use approved downlight covers to minimize fire risk and protect insulation.Verify that your home meets acceptable air leakage rates through building and testing procedures.For renovations, inquire whether your builder conducts third-party 'as-built' verification checks to confirm compliance with acceptable air leakage rates.
Efficient LightingOptimize lighting design and leverage natural light to reduce ongoing energy expenses. Ensure that your electrician selects lights and covers that adhere to Australian electrical safety standards.
Energy-Efficient AppliancesWhen purchasing appliances such as refrigerators, televisions, washing machines, and dishwashers, prioritize energy-efficient models with high energy star ratings. Despite potential upfront costs, these appliances will yield long-term savings.
Energy-Efficient Hot Water SystemsAlthough solar hot water systems may entail higher upfront costs for purchase and installation, their operational expenses are significantly lower. The check with you local Government if it offers rebates for eligible households investing in solar hot water systems.
InsulationInsulation is a one-time investment with long-term benefits. Insulate your home's ceiling, walls, and floors to potentially reduce running costs by up to 45%. Ensure proper insulation installation, without gaps and with proper waterproofing. Inquire if your builder conducts third-party 'as-built' verification checks for insulation.
Solar PowerConsider installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system to generate renewable energy and lower your electricity bills. With Whole of Home most new builds do require the instalation of PV systems.
VentilationBalancing efforts to reduce air leakage with controlled ventilation is essential. Both windows and exhaust fans can help maintain indoor air quality while minimizing unwanted air leakage. Effective ventilation enhances comfort, savings, and health.
Waste MinimizationA significant portion of construction waste is recyclable, such as concrete, bricks, and timber. Inquire about your builder's waste minimization strategy and documentation.
WaterSave water by exploring water recycling systems and selecting water-saving fittings and appliances. Design kitchens and wet areas for flexibility to accommodate future design, usage, and technology changes.
Window Frames, Glazing, and ShadingSmart window design and external shading can ensure year-round comfort. Double glazing, which has become more cost-effective, reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Energy-efficient windows can cut heat loss through windows by up to 50% compared to single-glazed windows.
Zoning and Efficient Heating and CoolingDesigning zones within your home enables efficient heating and cooling of individual rooms. Doors provide effective zoning, minimizing heating or cooling costs in unused areas. Choose energy-efficient heating and cooling systems to reduce energy consumption and associated costs. Sliding doors may be less effective due to air gaps in the recess.
Selecting energy-efficient strategies and materials aligns with principles of sustainability, cost savings, and comfort in your home.
What is high performance glazing?
High-performance glazing pertains to window characteristics designed to minimize undesirable heat transfer, resulting in enhanced comfort within the home and reduced expenses for heating and cooling.
Advanced choices encompass:
Double or triple glazing.Low-emissivity (low-e) glass.Window frames with thermal breaks.Homeowners have the opportunity to consult with their designer or builder for guidance on glazing and to explore the available options.
Advanced choices encompass:
Double or triple glazing.Low-emissivity (low-e) glass.Window frames with thermal breaks.Homeowners have the opportunity to consult with their designer or builder for guidance on glazing and to explore the available options.
What is a Whole of Home Assessment?
NatHERS' new Whole of Home rating will assess the overall energy consumption of a residence, encompassing appliances, solar power, and battery usage.
This marks the most significant overhaul of the scheme in its 30-year history, ushering in crucial enhancements in energy efficiency for new homes throughout Australia. The design and construction of energy-efficient homes play a pivotal role in advancing the country's transition to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The recently announced modifications to the National Construction Code 2022 by Building Ministers, such as the adoption of a minimum 7-star standard and the introduction of an annual energy use budget, can be demonstrated to be in compliance using the new Whole of Home rating.
NatHERS' Whole of Home ratings offer an accessible means to showcase how a home aligns with or surpasses the new NCC annual energy use budget. This budget takes into account the efficiency of appliances in new homes, as well as solar power and battery systems.
In addition to the existing NatHERS star rating, which rates homes out of ten, the Whole of Home Performance Rating will introduce a separate rating on a scale of 1 to 100.
This fresh evaluation goes beyond assessing thermal performance and provides insights into the energy usage of various appliances, including heating, cooling, hot water systems, lighting, pool and spa pumps, and cooking and plug-in devices, as well as on-site energy generation and storage.
The rating takes into consideration energy expended on heating, cooling, and appliances, offset by energy generated through solar panels, providing a comprehensive overview of energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
While the Whole of Home rating scale ranges from 1 to 100 (with 100 signifying a net-zero energy home), it's worth noting that ratings exceeding 100 are attainable. Homes may surpass this threshold when they generate more energy than they consume.
This marks the most significant overhaul of the scheme in its 30-year history, ushering in crucial enhancements in energy efficiency for new homes throughout Australia. The design and construction of energy-efficient homes play a pivotal role in advancing the country's transition to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The recently announced modifications to the National Construction Code 2022 by Building Ministers, such as the adoption of a minimum 7-star standard and the introduction of an annual energy use budget, can be demonstrated to be in compliance using the new Whole of Home rating.
NatHERS' Whole of Home ratings offer an accessible means to showcase how a home aligns with or surpasses the new NCC annual energy use budget. This budget takes into account the efficiency of appliances in new homes, as well as solar power and battery systems.
In addition to the existing NatHERS star rating, which rates homes out of ten, the Whole of Home Performance Rating will introduce a separate rating on a scale of 1 to 100.
This fresh evaluation goes beyond assessing thermal performance and provides insights into the energy usage of various appliances, including heating, cooling, hot water systems, lighting, pool and spa pumps, and cooking and plug-in devices, as well as on-site energy generation and storage.
The rating takes into consideration energy expended on heating, cooling, and appliances, offset by energy generated through solar panels, providing a comprehensive overview of energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
While the Whole of Home rating scale ranges from 1 to 100 (with 100 signifying a net-zero energy home), it's worth noting that ratings exceeding 100 are attainable. Homes may surpass this threshold when they generate more energy than they consume.
What needs to be added on the plans?
- The following appliances details need to be added on the plans for the Whole of Home assessment.
- Heating and cooling systems
- Hot water systems
- Lighting
- Pool/spa pumps
- Cooking and plug-in appliances
- On-site energy generation and storage.