The increased popularity of air conditioning is not good news for the environment or community-owned electricity infrastructure. This is one reason why these new sustainable housing laws pay specific attention to natural ventilation and climate-sensitive house design.

A well-designed house is not only more comfortable to live in, but also reduces the need to use an air conditioner.

Air conditioning is contributing to increased average household energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, particularly when less energy efficient models are installed and used. Around 70% of Queensland households have at least one air conditioner.

As of 1 September 2009, air conditioners up to a cooling capacity of 65 kW that are installed in houses, townhouses and units must meet a minimum tested average Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 2.9. This is generally equivalent to a 4-star rating on an energy rating label. This is only the minimum requirement—the higher the EER, the greater ability the system has to be more energy efficient and the more money you can save on running costs.

If a system is not labelled with the tested average EER or a star rating, download the product listing spreadsheet which lists all models currently registered in Australia.  This spreadsheet is provided by the federal government's Energy Rating website. The tested average EER is located in column ‘AT’ (EERMEPSLev). If you are unable to locate the tested average EER on this spreadsheet, please contact the air conditioner manufacturer.

Benefits to the homeowner

In a typical Queensland household, electricity consumption from air conditioning is 27% of total usage, making it one of the highest single energy users in the home. Consequently, the more energy efficient your air conditioner, the more money you can save on its running costs, as well as minimising your household’s carbon footprint.

Costs to the homeowner

There are currently 1500 air conditioner models tested and registered under Australian Standards with an EER of 2.9 or higher, so there is not expected to be a significant cost impact on consumers.  

Sales ban

The Queensland Government has also introduced a ban on the sale of air conditioners in Queensland that have a tested average EER of less than 2.9 for cooling.

From 1 September 2009, air conditioners (new or second hand) which do not meet a minimum tested average EER of 2.9 are not able to be sold in Queensland, regardless of the building in which they are to be installed.

More information

For technical information in relation to installation, optimisation and positioning of your air conditioner, a guideline will be available in the coming weeks.