The persisting global warming and climate change concerns have prompted the global government to take stringent steps to reduce global warming!
One of the greatest sources of greenhouse gas is build environment. And therefore, to reduce the carbon footprints of buildings, the Australian government have introduced several sustainability measures.
Once such measure is NatHERS certification!
This article will explore all the facts and questions related to NatHERS. Let’s dive in!
What is NatHERS?
NatHERS, also known as Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), is a star rating system that assigns 1 to 10 stars. The stars reflect the energy efficiency of a home based on its plan and design.
NatHERS star ratings function as a tool to estimate a residential structure’s potential heating and cooling energy utilisation, enabling Australian homes to become more comfortable for their occupiers.
Residents can also save on energy bills through smarter design choices. Usually, with an intelligent and optimised construction plan amount of energy needed to keep a home comfortable is significantly reduced. The sustainable and energy-efficient designs require no or minimally additional construction cost.
Similar to the performance star ratings on household appliances, NatHERS certificate encompasses a rating out of ten on the design of a new residential structure’s energy efficiency for heating and cooling.
Why Do You Require NatHERS Rating?
- Currently, all new residential construction requires a minimum of 6 stars as directed by the Building Code of Australia.
- A building permit will not be generated unless you can demonstrate this energy rating.
- NatHERS certificate is one of the performance demonstration methods accepted by local councils and governments.
- NatHERS also become an integral part of the BASIX certificate.
- In some cases, sustainability recommendations can be a cost-effective amendment of construction materials, such as flooring development or incorporating extra shading.
However, it is advisable to consider NatHERS-compliant construction recommendations from experienced and qualified energy raters and building consultants to save money, increase its overall value, deliver wellness and lower carbon footprint.
Also Read: Tips On Getting A 6-Star NatHERS Assessment
What compoments of residential projects are considered during NatHERS assessment?
Your development’s star rating is determined by the following factors assessed during the NatHERS program:
- Residential structure layout
- Windows, floor, walls and roof construction and materials
- Orientation of windows and shading to the sun and local breezes
- How all construction designs are optimised for your specific local climate
NatHERS Rating Is Applicable For Which Australian States And Territories?
NatHERS is applicable in all Australian state and territory legislation. It is compulsory to secure a building permit application for new residential structures.
In NSW, NatHERS is used in conjunction with BASIX.
How To Get Your Residential Project 7 NatHERS Stars Rating?
- Involve a NatHERS assessor involved in the early stages: The most critical step is getting an accredited NatHERS assessor involved in the early stages of the design process. Assessors are highly trained to provide suggestions and improve ratings to achieve 7 stars and even beyond.
- Orientation and considering climatic zone is the key: Always construct your residential structure according to the local climatic conditions. Consider shading and solar access as appropriate for temperate, tropical or cool climates. A simple equation of the house plan can introduce a significant difference in performance.
- Improve the glazing: NatHERS assessment encompasses both default and custom window options. Selecting defaults will generally lead to a lower rating, so switching to a custom window where all the relevant specifications are known enables greater flexibility. Window sizing, placement and shading are also critical considerations that should align with the climate.
- Introduce and increase zoning: By integrating more internal doors in the construction design, you can more precisely apply mechanical heating and cooling estimates in NatHERS. Bottom of stairs, end of corridors, space between dining and living areas, and occasionally used rooms are great places to install doors and incorporate zoning.
- Reconsider the colour palette: Rating improvements can generally be achieved by lightening external roof and wall colours for all except Alpine regions (NCC climate zone 8). In fact, adjusting window frame palettes can also make a startling difference.
Wrapping Up
Measuring energy efficiency and building performance has become mandatory in almost every state and union territory of Australia. To avoid any complications during the building process, improve operational efficiency and reduce construction costs, it is recommended that you hire a certified and experienced building consultation agency to help you in the process.
