Climate Control Policy

1.1 The principal object of the Teacher Housing Authority of NSW (THA) is to provide and maintain suitable and adequate housing accommodation for teachers.
1.2 The Climate Control Policy (CCP) is consistent with this objective by addressing the heating and cooling provisions for THA dwellings.
1.3 The CCP also outlines the passive climate control measures that can be incorporated into THA building designs, fixtures and fittings.
1.4 The CCP recognises that THA dwellings are located in many climatic zones throughout NSW. Consequently, the policy provides flexibility in determining the type and extent of climate control provided in each locality (taking into account temperature, humidity and comfort data from the Bureau of Meteorology).

2.1 “Humidex Index” is an index calculated from the combination of the measured relative humidity level and the effective temperature. The index allows evaluation of the comfort level in a locality.
2.2 “Passive Climate Control” relates to measures taken to reduce the extent to which mechanical heating and cooling appliances are needed and maximise their efficiency when used.
2.3 “33° Isotherm” connects points in New South Wales with the same mean temperature going through (from south to north) Conargo, Argoon, Hay, Rankin’s Springs, Marsden, Peak Hill, Gilgandra, Coonabarabran, Gunnedah, Narrabri, Bingara, Warialda, Ashford and Bonshaw.

3.1 The CCP will apply to houses and villa units.
3.2 Air cooling will be provided to all THA dwellings.
3.3 At the implementation date of this policy, some dwellings (generally east of the 33° isotherm) will have no mechanical air cooling facility. Air cooling will be provided to these dwellings as resources permit. Using the Humidex Index, highest priority will be given to localities showing the greatest number of days with a “dangerous” or “great discomfort” reading, progressing eventually to localities with lower degrees of discomfort in the Humidex range.

4.1 The THA will generally provide a power flued space gas heater (Rinnai 1004 or equivalent in houses and Rinnai 556 FTD or equivalent in villa units) to the main living area of a dwelling. In localities that do not have delivery arrangements for bottled gas to tenants, the THA will provide an electric space heater to the main living area of the dwelling (see also 4.4 and 5.4).
4.2 At the implementation date of this policy, some dwellings will have other heating appliances such as kerosene and solid fuel heaters. When such appliances reach the end of their economic useful life, they will be replaced with gas or electric heaters as indicated in 4.1.
4.3 Heating appliances will be maintained and repaired by the THA as required.
4.4 Where reverse cycle air conditioning is installed, gas or electric heating will not be provided.

5.1 An evaporative air appliance will be the primary method of mechanical cooling in THA dwellings.
5.2 Evaporative air cooling units will be serviced biannually (pre season in August / September and post season in April / May). Repairs or maintenance outside the programmed services will be undertaken “as required” by licensed tradespeople.
5.3 Evaporative air cooling units will be located on the roof. The THA will ensure any occupational health and safety obligations are met in respect of contractors accessing THA dwelling roofs to install or maintain such units.
5.4 Reverse cycle air conditioning will be considered in localities:
- that have poor water quality (ie bore water with a high mineral content);
- that have low water supply (ie tank water only);
- that experience high humidity levels (as determined by data available from the Bureau of Meteorology);
- where evaporative air coolers are ineffective on more than 20 days per annum (as determined by data from the Bureau of Meteorology); and
- that do not have delivery arrangements for bottled gas to tenants.
5.5 Where the mean maximum summer temperature in a locality is less that 30° (as determined by data from the Bureau of Meteorology) and one or more of the criteria outlined in 5.4 is met, the THA will consider installing reverse cycle air conditioning in the main living area of a dwelling and fans in bedrooms.
5.6 The outside unit of split-system reverse cycle air conditioners will be located at ground level.

7.1 The General Manager has discretion, in exceptional circumstances, to vary or waive any provision of this policy.

8.1 All disputes concerning the operation or interpretation of this policy will be determined by the General Manager.
8.2 A complainant not satisfied with a decision by the General Manager may ask for the matter to be considered by the THA Board.

“Teacher Housing Authority of NSW Review of The Heating and Cooling Policies” - IAB Services (November 2005)