A central hot water system is a system that supplies hot water to more than one dwelling (generally all dwellings) from a central source.
BASIX recognises the following types of central hot water systems:
- Co-generation system
- Solar – gas boosted
- Solar – electric boosted
- Electric heat pump – gas boosted
- Electric heat pump – air sourced
- Gas instantaneous
- Gas-fired boiler
- Gas-fired storage (manifolded)
- Electric instantaneous
- Electric storage
Design and installation
We strongly recommend engaging a qualified hydraulic consultant when designing and installing a central hot water system. They can help ensure you have the correct information to complete your BASIX assessment.
Greenhouse gas emissions
With the decarbonisation of the NSW electricity grid, the use of electric heat pumps with suitable thermal storage is likely to produce the lowest greenhouse gas emissions over the life of the system.
Solar hot water systems
If you choose a central solar hot water system, you must enter the solar collector area into BASIX. Roof space is often limited. Before selecting a system, check that there is enough space to install the required collectors. In many cases, using roof space for photovoltaic (PV) panels to generate electricity is more cost‑effective.
Piping insulation
The piping insulation for internal piping, external piping and the ringmain must also be entered into BASIX. The insulation level influences the amount of heat lost from the hot water and therefore the energy use of the hot water system.