A central cooling system is a system that cools more than one dwelling (generally all dwellings). In multi-dwelling developments, BASIX recognises the following types of central cooling systems:
- chilled water fan coil units:
(dwelling air conditioning unit(s) that contain fan and cooling coil; chilled water is piped from the central cooling and heat rejection plant). - water source packaged units:
(dwelling air conditioning unit(s) that contain fan, cooling coil and compressor; cooling water is piped from central heat rejection plant). - variable refrigerant volume units:
(dwelling air conditioning unit(s) that contain fan and cooling coil; refrigerant is piped from the central compressors and the heat rejection plant).
It is highly recommended that the design and installation of a central cooling and/or heating system is carried out in association with a qualified mechanical or HVAC (Heating, Cooling and Air Conditioning) engineer or technical specialist. They will help you with some of the information required for BASIX.
Further information
The NSW Public Health Act requires periodic inspection and testing of cooling towers to minimise risk of legionella. For more information see NSW Health Fact Sheet on Legionalla and Legionaire's Disease.
Last updated: 21/09/2023