At this conference a wide range of environmental issues were debated, in particular the ways in which nations could help to reduce ‘greenhouse gas’ emissions. This Greenhouse Strategy was accepted by Australia and is being put into action by the Australian Greenhouse Office.

One of the effects of MEPS will be felt by the manufacturers, specifiers, resellers and installers of water heaters.

From October 1999 electric water heaters of 50 litres capacity and above must meet the heat loss requirements of Australian Standard AS 1056.

Australian Standard AS 1056 sets new minimum energy performance levels for electric water heaters. There is a new mandatory heat loss requirement that all new water heaters must have only a 70% heat loss compared to current standards.

This will have several effects on the design and installation requirements of water heaters. Fortunately, it’s nearly all good news. By upgrading their water heaters to meet the new standard manufacturers will create products which are more efficient, more environmentally friendly and more attractive to the end-user.

There will need to be a slight increase in dimensions of some water heaters. This is primarily due to the extra space needed for additional insulation to be placed around the storage cylinder, thereby improving the heat loss performance.

The area required for installation will need to be increased slightly in height, width and depth. This is especially relevant for installations in confined spaces, including cupboard or under- bench installations.

Detailed data sheets have been prepared to ensure all architects, builders, plumbers, resellers and end-users are fully aware of the new specifications.

The small increases in the size of water heaters will be more than offset by the big gains in performance ...’providing more efficient and environmentally friendly water heating to Australia.