No part of this journal may be printed in other publications without prior written permission of the Managing Editor. Disclaimer: Statements expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the policies or views of the associations, and members of IRHACE or CCCANZ. The IRHACE Journal publishes both local and international articles. Standards and or practices may differ from current New Zealand standards and or practices used. No responsibility is accepted by the associations and editor for the accuracy of information or for errors or omissions. The IRHACE Journal is distributed to all the IRHACE and CCCANZ financial members.
ISSN 01148257
FEATURES
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New Zealand HVAC&R represented globally
Jack Butler brings home a medal of excellence from WorldSkills 2024.
Eco-friendly heating in schools
Tubman Heating provides containerised wood pellet boilers for schools.
Expert advice on ventilation in the home
The three main types of ventilation and why it’s vital for keeping homes clean and healthy.
Remediation of flood-contaminated system
A guide for building owners and managers on flood-contaminated HVAC systems.
Redesigning the vocational education and training system
We share our response to the Government’s proposed redesign of New Zealand’s vocational educational system.
Our new website is a significant milestone for the HVAC&R industry!
The project unifies four websites under one roof at www.hvacrcentre.nz and has streamlined access to resources and services for professionals and companies. After 18 months of development, this is a comprehensive hub for industry standards, learning materials and professional networking, and serves as a one-stop platform for all things related to HVAC&R in New Zealand.
In this issue, the Ministry of Education is replacing coal boilers in schools and electric cabling is underway at the Ashburton Solar farm. We also learn how good ventilation is like living in a goldfish bowl, how to do privacy well, and celebrate Māori Language Week.
CCCANZ’s fact sheet offers consumers, building owners and managers vital guidance on the remediation of flood-contaminated HVAC systems. This guide helps ensure that HVAC systems compromised by flooding are safely restored, preventing further damage and health hazards.
If you haven’t been following the action, our industry had our very first apprentice represent New Zealand at the WorldSkills competition in France. Thousands of visitors gathered in Lyon to watch young talents from nearly 70 countries in 59 skills compete. Jack Butler finished 9th out of 26 countries in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. Read the full story.
The HVAC&R Centre compiled its response to the VET consultation process with some important points. Our industry requires an ever-increasing level of technical competence, largely driven by emerging technologies, and it currently lacks a pathway for vocational training to the higher qualifications 5, 6 and 7 levels. HVAC&R is the primary building service in commercial buildings with a significant presence in other building types, making it far more aligned to the construction and infrastructure sector than to the manufacturing, engineering and logistics sectors.
Next month, the Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Finals Competition 2024 is in Steelfort in Palmerston North. You are invited to attend the action from Friday 18th to Saturday 19th October.
New Zealand’s presence on the world map for refrigeration and air conditioning has been solidified with an impressive performance, finishing 9th out of 26 countries in the recent WorldSkills competition in Lyon, France.
CEO: IRHACE, CCCANZ, HVAC&R Centre
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AROUND THE INDUSTRY
1. Five years of success with HVAC Depot
Join us in celebrating Alan Meng, HVAC Depot’s General Manager, and Bo Cao, Operations and Technical Manager, as they mark five incredible years with HVAC Depot! Their leadership and expertise have been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and innovation. Their team are grateful for their dedication and looks forward to many more years of success together!
2. 15 years of dedication with Patton
A huge congratulations to Cameron Fearon, National Sales Manager at Patton Ltd, on receiving his 15-year Long Service Award!
3. Health NZ Manukau Health Park
1M Operations Manager, Joel McDonald, was recently joined by OCS Australia & New Zealand Managing Director, Gareth W Marriott, on a site visit of the new Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Manukau Health Park that is currently under construction.
1M Project Manager, Chris Field, Site Manager, Elmerson Fandino, and their team of 20 have been working hard to install critical medical air, oxygen and HVAC systems in the facility’s three new buildings before they complete the refurbishment of the existing building.
Once complete in 2025, this groundbreaking, $316m development will provide additional medical capacity for South Aucklanders, enabling almost 150,000 additional outpatient appointments to be scheduled each year, and more than 3,600 additional surgeries per year on site from 2026.
Cameron’s unwavering commitment, leadership and expertise have been integral to Patton’s success over the years. Managing Director, Karl Burke, had the pleasure of presenting Cameron with this well-deserved award. 4.
Cody is the lucky winner
Congratulations Cody from Sturrock and Greenwood as the lucky winner of the Patton Nelson branch August promotion! Cody (left) is now the happy owner of a brand new JBL speaker, ready to bring the party wherever he goes!
5. Another transcritical CO2 system dispatched by Cooling Equipment Ltd
The system is a two-stage booster type for blast freezer application, with a capacity of 130 Kw at -35 SST at +32c ambient. The system is assembled on a heavy-duty welded steel frame for New Zealand seismic conditions. Compressor variable frequency drives are fitted to the lead compressors on both LT and MT systems. The system can operate in a tempering mode allowing for a higher operating temperature of one or more of the blast freezer cells. With suction vapour flowing directly to the MT compressors with an automatic changeover using valve actuators
6. Collecting for a good cause
Nik Foster Branch Manager at Realcold Tauranga, and CCCANZ Board member collected for Daffodil Day. Well done Nik, we hope you were able to collect a lot of donations. One in three Kiwis will receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetimes. Each day 74 Kiwis hear the words, “You have cancer.” Daffodil Day is a chance to show your friends and family affected by cancer they’re not alone.
7. 15 years of service with White Refrigeration
Congrats to Mike Upton on 15 amazing years with White Refrigeration! They celebrated Mike’s outstanding contribution, commitment and dedication. “Thank you, Mike, for being such a vital part of the White Refrigeration family. Looking forward to many more years of success and growth together!”
8. Temperzone in Christchurch
Temperzone had another great product launch event in Christchurch. “Thanks to all those who turned up to discover the benefits of our new Hitachi systems and experience the products. The Southern Alps provided a beautiful backdrop to the event at the Addington Raceway Venue!”
9. On the job with Tubman Heating
During an annual survey, the team carried out a comprehensive inspection and testing of a steam boiler. They began by safely shutting down the boiler, allowing it to cool, and fully draining the system before commencing the survey. This thorough process ensures that the boiler meets all safety standards and operates efficiently
Clever, High Quality Air Handling Unit
Introducing Clever MT series , full-aluminium highly corrosion-resistant lightweight units, crafted with superior design elements to deliver exceptional performance. The MT Series offers high-quality features while giving you the certainty to aid quick and easy HVAC system design and the flexibility to rely on shorter lead times and optimum savings.
Nominal Airflow
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Tropical Profiles
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EC plug fans that precisely adjust airflow to change in static pressure
Introducing the Clever MT series
Meticulously crafted with superior design to deliver exceptional performance, Temperzone’s Clever MT series air handling units are light-weight and highly corrosion-resistant
Reflecting Temperzone’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of various industries and applications, the Clever MT series offers pre-engineered standardised options that allow you to configure your unit to suit your requirements.
The MT series consists of eight EC Plug fan units with maximum nominal airflow ranges from 750 l/s to 15,000 l/s, each capable of a minimum 400Pa external static pressure.
Epoxy-coated cooling and heating coils are available in eleven combinations with 1 or 2-row heating coils and 4, 6 or 8-row chilled water coils.
Available as right-hand or left-hand units – orienting all water and electrical connections, drainage, gauges and service access doors – you can also choose between horizontal or vertical air discharge, horizontal and/or vertical return air plenum, or return air/outside air mixing dampers (EL100 opposed blade dampers and motorised or manual actuators).
The MT Series has a range of standardised optional accessories, including a Magnahelic gauge, internal LED lighting, inspection windows and optional filters – G4 panels, F7 bags and F9 filter cartridge options. EC Plug fans are wired to an electrical interface cabinet with an external isolator and a potentiometer that can control the internal fan speed. This electrical interface cabinet allows for Modbus serial communication protocol and internal control terminations, and multiple controller modules for pressure, volume and temperature.
With an all-aluminium design with anodised aluminium profiles and base channels, double-skinned outer and inner marine grade 5005 aluminium painted panels with injected high-density polyurethane foam insulation, the MT air handling units are lightweight, corrosion resistant and have impressive thermal barrier properties. All units come with a moulded UV-resistant, anti-fungal ABS drain tray designed with a sloped design to the drain connection, eliminating water pooling and allowing for efficient condensate removal.
The flexibility of the MT series ensures that customers can efficiently specify, install, maintain, and operate our products, saving time and effort throughout the product lifecycle.
WATCH
A medal of excellence
Jack Butler has represented New Zealand’s HVAC&R industry on the world stage, placing in the top 10 of competitors in the refrigeration, heating and air conditioning skill
Elliot Farnan (Aircraft Engineering), Jack Butler (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning), Carl Rankin (WorldSkills NZ General Manager)
A recap of the competition
Day one:
The event kicked off with an opening ceremony and pre-competition, competitors took part in One School One Country – a cultural exchange programme bringing together children from the host country of the competition with WorldSkills member countries and regions to share each other’s cultures, values, and increase awareness about the power of vocational skills to improve lives around the world.
‘Module A refrigeration installation’ also commenced, with competitors assembling refrigeration components to form a complete system. Competitors were provided a set of plans to follow and critically marked throughout – from pipe bending and brazing, through to pressure testing and commissioning.
Day two:
Supported by WorldSkills New Zealand Expert Neill Adkins, day two continued with ‘ Module A refrigeration installation’. Jack made great progress completing assembly of the components, brazing and pressure testing within the tight time frame.
Day three:
‘Module A refrigeration installation’ was completed on day three, along with electrical fault finding. “Jack did an awesome job getting the electrical completed and carrying out system evacuation while overcoming some issues with a faulty manifold/vac gauge that he was able to diagnose and remedy with the judges,” says William Lovell who was on the ground supporting Jack at the event. “Once the vacuum was complete, he managed to get the system charged with refrigerant and powered up. Along with the majority of the competitors, he ran out of time to finalise and complete the commissioning tasks within the right time frame allocated.”
Day four:
The final day of competing consisted of ‘Module D refrigeration fault finding and repair’ and ‘Module C f abrication’, which Jack performed well in.
“His skill and professionalism are a true testament to himself and has done an extraordinary job at representing New Zealand on the world stage,” says William.
Overall, Jack placed an impressive 9th out of the 26 competing countries and was awarded an excellence medallion for his efforts – an award for competitors who have demonstrated a high level of excellence within their skill. Jack was also awarded Best in Nation, awarded to the best performing competitor from each represented country.
“There’s definitely a lot of a lot of young talent out there coming through that could potentially find themselves in a similar position to Jack Butler competing on a global scale – he certainly sets a good example and a good standard as well for people coming through.”
- Trent McDonald, Wallie Askew Workskills judge.
Jack Butler & Neill Adkins
Neill Adkins
Eco-friendly heating in schools
The Ministry of Education is replacing coal boilers in schools so they run on lower carbon-emitting solutions. So what’s replacing them?
Coal boilers in New Zealand public schools are readily being replaced by renewable woody biomass or electric heating sources, under the Ministry of Education Te Tāhuhu o Te Mātauranga (the Ministry) School Coal Boiler Replacement Programme.
According to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), the removal of all remaining coal boilers in public schools is expected to reduce state sector carbon emissions by around 89,000 tonnes over 10 years. The initiative is part of a $12 billion infrastructure investment package, including a $200 million State Sector Decarbonisation Programme to reduce state sector emissions. When the programme was announced in 2019, there were about 150 coal boilers in schools. As of 26 January last year, 42 boilers had been replaced through the programme.
Depending on a number of factors – including each school’s location, the availability of resources in the location, specific features of the site, and whether the
school has already started to transition away from coal to another type of low-emissions heating – four replacement solutions are recommended:
• Converting the existing boiler: For the most straightforward projects, new wood pellet or chip boilers can be fitted into a school’s existing infrastructure. This can be favourable if the existing boiler is not yet towards the end of its life, and the storage and fuel set-up is suitable.
• Containerised boilers: For larger schools, a containerised boiler that runs on either wood pellets or wood chips can be favourable if the existing infrastructure is unsuitable, and there is access to wood pellet/chip supply in the area.
• Air-to-water heat pumps: Air-water heat pumps can be favourable when there is limited space, there is sufficient electricity supply, and the hydronic system is in good condition.
• Air-to-air heat pumps: In a school with lower heating requirements, this option may be used if there is sufficient power to the school and the hydronic system is in poor condition.
Tubman Heating provides a range of containerised wood pellet boilers, with ÖkoFEN pellet boilers recently installed at two schools.
Coromandel Area School
The installation of an ÖkoFEN 128 kW pellet boiler in the plant room at Coromandel Area School, along with another 128kW pellet boiler in a container outside the boiler room, marked a significant milestone in their journey to reduce carbon emissions.
With its advanced technology and efficient performance, the boiler seamlessly integrated into the school’s heating system, providing consistent warmth while minimising environmental impact.
James Cook School
The ÖkoFEN 128 kW pellet boiler was also the right choice for Marton’s James Cook School. Embracing the opportunity to make a positive environmental impact through the adoption of pellet boilers, the installation of the system was met with enthusiasm from the school community.
Tubman Heating also previously installed wood pellet boilers at Paeroa School, Mercury Bay School and Miller Avenue School as part of the programme.
The impact and benefit of wood pellet boilers
The installation of pellet boilers at these schools signifies more than just a transition in heating technology – it represents a commitment to sustainability and a greener future. By phasing out coal and embracing renewable energy sources, schools play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change.
The shift towards pellet boilers also offers tangible benefits including improved air quality, reduced operating costs, and educational opportunities for students to learn about environmental stewardship.
Solar farm update
Electric cabling is underway as completion and commissioning edge closer at the Ashburton Solar Farm
Earlier this year, we spoke with Garry Ko after RCR Green and Lightyears Solar commenced work at the Ashburton Solar Farm. Now, as work nears completion, we’ve spoken with Garry to learn more about the project and how others can undertake similar projects.
What is an agrivoltaic model, and what are the benefits?
Garry Ko: An agrivoltaic model integrates solar panels with agricultural land, allowing for the simultaneous production of solar energy and crops on the same piece of land. This dual-use approach optimises land use, making it possible to generate renewable energy while continuing agricultural activities.
Benefits of this model include improved land efficiency, increased income for farmers, reduced water evaporation
from crops due to the shade provided by solar panels, and the potential for enhanced crop growth in certain conditions.
How can other landowners get involved in solar farm design like this, and what is your advice to them?
Garry Ko: Landowners interested in agrivoltaic systems can start by assessing their land’s solar potential and agricultural suitability. Partnering with experienced solar developers and agricultural experts is crucial to design a system that balances energy production with crop cultivation. I would advise landowners to thoroughly research the regulatory environment and available incentives in their area, and then consult with professionals who can guide them through the technical and financial aspects of the project.
Is RCR involved in any other upcoming projects like this?
Garry Ko: Yes, RCR is actively exploring and developing several projects that incorporate agrivoltaic models. We believe in the potential of this approach to contribute to sustainable energy solutions while supporting agricultural productivity. Our involvement in these projects reflects our commitment to innovation and sustainability in the green energy sector.
rcrnz.co.nz lightyearssolar.co.nz
Ventilation: it’s like living in a goldfish bowl
Experts in ventilation, Simx give us the rundown on the three main types of ventilation and explains why it’s vital for keeping homes clean and healthy
Words by Josiah Richardson
It’s fair to say that most of us have tried to keep pet fish at some point. It turns out that for a low-maintenance pet, fish can be a lot of effort to keep. But cleaning their tanks and filtering water is essential to keep them healthy; after all, it’s how they breathe.
So why is ventilation in our homes any different?
As our homes are made more airtight, they become more like goldfish bowls. Much like how water doesn’t magically clean itself inside a fish tank, you need to actively ventilate your home to keep it clean and healthy. There are three main types of ventilation you can use to ‘clean your goldfish bowl’: natural, intermittent, and continuous.
Natural ventilation involves opening windows and doors to create airflow, a bit like manually cleaning your goldfish bowl. As we probably all know, this is very easy to forget about and ends up being more work than you think. Sometimes there are also valid reasons to not want to open your windows. These may include: trying to stop prying paws (security), temperature losses, or noise. But unfortunately, a closed or occasionally opened window is insufficient to ventilate your home.
Intermittent ventilation is like only turning the filter on when feeding your fish. This traditional style of extraction ventilation is currently a legislated option, but it has flaws. This form of ventilation still requires you to remember to turn it on and is also generally too expensive, powerful, and noisy for constant use. It’s also too easy to not leave it on for long enough to properly remove airborne moisture.
Continuous ventilation is like an advanced filter that is cheap to run 24/7 and can still boost when needed, keeping your fish healthy and happy always. Because it’s constantly running, it doesn’t matter if you forget about it, ensuring a much better average indoor air quality. Continuous negative pressure ensures effective contaminant removal, while continuous positive pressure ensures fresh, clean air is always brought inside; together they provide a more balanced solution. Efficiently designed continuous fans are often much quieter than their intermittent counterparts, something that your surprisingly sharp-eared goldfish will thank you for.
Research shows that windows and intermittent ventilation are insufficient for maintaining a healthy environment – that’s why as homes become more airtight, Kiwis will demand continuous ventilation solutions.
What options do you have?
Simx has several continuous ventilation solutions. For single-room continuous extraction, the Manrose Genius and EC Contour fans are designed for quiet, energy-efficient 24/7 continuous use. They are ideal for extraction from a single wet room, like a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry with their variable speed options during high humidity events.
If you’re looking for a complete solution for an airtight modern home that includes extraction, there are two main options: continuous extraction with passive air inlets, or balanced heat recovery.
The Vent-Axia MultiVent is a cost-effective, fully featured and centralised continuous extraction ventilation system. This system combines continuous trickle extraction with high boost levels using humidity-sensed automation to deliver better indoor air quality.
Because continuous extraction creates negative pressure, passive air inlet vents can be used with any continuous extraction fan to bring fresh air inside for whole-home ventilation. Manrose has a collection of passive vents, such as the filtered Puro, acoustically damped Calma, and Aria with knockouts for minimum closure applications.
On the other hand, heat recovery systems like the SmartVent Synergy3 or SmartVent Balance are a more comprehensive alternative to continuous extraction. These systems integrate active air supply and offer greater energy efficiency through reduced heating, plus improved comfort. A heat recovery system provides all the benefits of fresh air without the nuisance or expensive power bill to reheat it.
Alternative home ventilation systems can also be considered depending on the climate and type of home. Simx can help you find the right solution.
Remember: build tight and ventilate right, because no one likes a sick goldfish.
HVAC&R SYSTEMS - THE IMPACT OF FLOODING Remediation of floodcontaminated systems
The remediation of flood-contaminated HVAC systems: a guide
for building owners and managers
During flooding, HVAC systems can become contaminated with substantial amounts of dirt and debris, along with various types of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. The following recommendations will help ensure that HVAC systems contaminated with flood water are properly cleaned and remediated to provide healthy indoor environments
Microorganisms may grow on all surfaces of HVAC system components that have been submerged in flood waters. Moisture can also collect in HVAC system components that were not submerged (such as air supply ducts above the water line) and can promote the growth of microorganisms. All components of the HVAC system that were contaminated with flood water or moisture should be thoroughly inspected, cleaned of dirt and debris, and disinfected by a qualified professional.
Submerged HVAC equipment is typically damaged beyond what would be considered cost effective repair. Fully submerged equipment requires replacement of all open exposed electrical controls and motors. Likewise, gas piping, controls and burner systems require a combination of component part replacement and cleaning to assure proper, safe operation. In addition, submerged air handling or duct systems are subjected to the potential biological hazards caused by contaminated floodwater.
A complete equipment change-out, coupled with a thorough duct system replacement or cleaning, is often required to restore safe, reliable HVAC system operation.
The Climate Controls Companies Association New Zealand (CCCANZ) strongly recommends that all flood-damaged HVAC systems remain offline until properly inspected by a skilled HVAC professional. It should also be noted that part replacement due to flood damage is not covered by the Standard, Limited Product Warranty, and product safety and reliability cannot be guaranteed after the product has been submerged in floodwater and/or mud. The degree of damage cannot be assessed without extensive evaluation of the product which can involve destructive inspection, making usability of the product impractical.
STEPS BEFORE CLEANING AND REMEDIATION
Isolate the construction areas where HVAC systems will be cleaned and remediated
If the building is to remain partly occupied (for example, on upper floors not affected by flood waters).
This can be achieved by using temporary walls, plastic sheeting or other vapour-retarding barriers. Maintain the construction areas under negative pressure (relative to adjacent non-construction areas) by using blowers equipped with HEPA filters (high-efficiency particulate air filters) to exhaust the area. To ensure complete isolation from the construction areas, it may be necessary to pressurise the adjacent non-construction areas and temporarily relocate the outdoor-air intake for the HVAC system serving the occupied areas.
Take precautions to protect the health of workers who are cleaning and remediating the HVAC system.
Make sure that workers wear at least an approved respirator to protect against airborne microorganisms. Increased levels of respiratory protection (for example, powered, air-purifying respirators equipped with HEPA filters) may be appropriate depending on the level of visible contamination. In addition, when using chlorine bleach or other disinfectants in poorly ventilated environments, it may be necessary to use appropriate chemical cartridges in addition to the particulate filters to protect workers from breathing the chemical vapours.
A respiratory protection programme can include a written standard operating procedure for the following: selecting and using respirators; the medical evaluation of workers to determine whether they are physically able to wear the respirator selected for use; training and instructions on respirator use; the cleaning, repair, and storage of respirators; the continued surveillance of work area conditions for worker exposure and stress; and a respirator fit-testing programme. For tight-fitting respirators, fit-testing is necessary to help ensure that the respirator fits tightly, reducing the potential for leakage of outside air from around the edge of the mask. In addition, employers must provide workers with appropriate skin, eye, and hearing protection for the safe performance of their jobs.
HVAC CLEANING AND REMEDIATION
• Remove all flood-contaminated insulation surrounding and within HVAC system components. Discard as per regulations.
• Remove contaminated HVAC filter media and discard appropriately as per regulations.
• After removing any insulation and filters, clean all flood-contaminated HVAC system component surfaces with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, debris and microorganisms. Pay special attention to filter racks, drain pans, bends and horizontal sections of air ducts where debris can collect.
• After removing any insulation or debris, disinfect all HVAC system component surfaces while the HVAC system is not operating. Use a solution of 1 cup of household chlorine bleach in 4.5-litres of water. Do not mix bleach with other cleaning products that contain ammonia.
• Conduct the cleaning and disinfection activities in a clean-to-dirty work progression. Consider the use of auxiliary fans to supply ‘clean’ air to workers and carry aerosolized contaminant and disinfectant in the clean-to-dirty direction, away from the worker’s breathing zones and towards the point of filtration and exhaust.
• Follow the disinfection procedure with a clean water rinse. Depending on the amount of debris present, it may be necessary to mechanically clean the HVAC system component surfaces with a steam or a high-pressure washer before using the disinfectant. Gasoline powered pressure washers should be used outside or with adequate exhaust ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide hazards.
**See note for more information
• After cleaning and disinfecting or replacing the HVAC system components, replace the insulation –preferably with an external (i.e. not in the air stream) smooth-surfaced insulation to help prevent debris and microorganisms from collecting in the future.
• Make sure that the HVAC system fan has been removed and serviced (cleaned, disinfected, dried thoroughly, and tested) by a qualified professional before it is placed back into the air-handling unit.
Note: Remove and discard HVAC system components that are contaminated with flood water, and cannot be effectively cleaned and disinfected. Replace them with new components.
• During the cleaning and remediation process, consider upgrading the HVAC system filtration to the highest efficiency filters practical, given the static pressure constraints of the HVAC system fan. This step has been shown to be one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the long-term quality of the indoor environment, since it reduces the amount of airborne dust and microorganisms.
RESUMING HVAC OPERATIONS
• After cleaning and disinfecting or replacing the HVAC system, have a qualified professional thoroughly evaluate its performance and correct it as necessary before the building is occupied again. The HVAC system performance should conform to the recommendations contained in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality.
• Before the building is occupied again, operate the HVAC system continuously in a normal manner at a comfortable temperature for 48 to 72 hours. During this period, it may be beneficial to open the HVAC outdoor air dampers to the maximum setting that still allows you to provide the desired indoor air temperatures.
• If flood-related odours persist after this ‘flush out’ period, reassess by looking for flood-contaminated areas that were not identified earlier and continue the flush-out process until odours are no longer apparent. Replace the HVAC filters used during the flush-out prior to building occupancy.
• After a building is occupied again, make frequent (for example, weekly) checks of the HVAC system to ensure that it is operating properly. During these checks, inspect the HVAC system filters and replace them when necessary.
• Gradually reduce the frequency of the HVAC system checks to monthly or quarterly inspections, depending on the routine operation and maintenance specifications for the HVAC system.
• If no routine operation and maintenance programme is in place for the HVAC system, develop and initiate such a programme. At a minimum, include the following routine procedures: inspection and maintenance of HVAC components, calibration of HVAC system controls, and testing and balancing of the HVAC system.
• After the building is occupied again, maintain the interior temperature and relative humidity to conform to the ranges recommended in ASHRAE Standard 55- 2004, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy.
THERMAL ENVIRONMENT CONDITIONS FOR HUMAN OCCUPANCY
The ASHRAE Standard 55 is designed to specify those combinations of factors that result in satisfactory thermal conditions for a majority of occupants, with criteria for evaluating comfort in existing buildings, as well as requirements and calculation procedures for design compliance.
The methods for determining satisfactory thermal environments have been consolidated and simplified to two—standard and adaptive—and a new flow chart provides guidance on how to apply the appropriate thermal comfort models for each method.
Documentation requirements have been updated with additions, clarifications, and simplifications, and a new example spreadsheet compliance form replaces the previous form. The updated standard also covers a wider range of metabolic rates and includes a new method for assessing local thermal discomfort with vertical air temperature gradient between head and ankle level.
See ASHRAE Standard 55 for more information.
The Climate Controls Companies Association New Zealand (CCCANZ) strongly recommends that all flood-damaged HVAC systems remain offline until properly inspected by a skilled HVAC professional. A qualified professional can advise you on your HVAC system performance, routine operation and maintenance. We recommend using an expert in the HVAC industry such as a CCCANZ company. Find a Company, https://hvacrcentre.nz/cccanz/find-a-company/
Our response to the Climate Change Commission
Representing the country’s HVAC&R Industry, HVAC&R Centre has submitted its response to the second emissions reduction plan (ERP) to assist New Zealand contribute positively to the world’s climate change problem
New Zealand’s second emissions reduction plan (2026–30) discussion document outlines sector proposals for the second emissions reduction plan, as well as how these policies might affect different groups of people and how communities can respond to the effects of climate change.
In this submission, we have responded to seven key questions detailed in the discussion document.
• What, if any, other sectors or areas do you think have significant opportunities for cost-effective emissions reduction?
• What additional opportunities do you think the Government should consider?
• What, if any, other impacts or consequences of the Government’s approach to meeting the first emissions budget should the Government be aware of?
• What, if any, are the long-term impacts from the changes to the first emissions reduction plan on meeting future emissions budgets that should be considered through the development of the second emissions reduction plan?
• What are some examples of how businesses and industries are already managing climate risks?
• How can these kinds of activities be further supported?
• Please provide any additional feedback on the pathway the Government has set out for managing climate risks from emissions reduction activities.
Overall, we believe that this discussion document and the first ERP roadmap give insufficient attention to the impact of HVAC&R systems on global warming.
By extension, this significantly diminishes the opportunity to mitigate HVAC&R GHG emissions through improved management of refrigerants.
Under the current policy settings, HVAC&R GHG emissions emission reductions will be severely constrained. Conversely, with the right policy settings, far better HVAC&R GHG emissions reduction outcomes will be delivered at minimal cost to the Government.
The current policy setting assumes a singular focus on the high GWP synthetic refrigerants, being the fluorinated (F-gas) refrigerants that cause direct Scope 1 fugitive GHG emissions. The policy settings ignore the fact that all refrigerant types cause indirect Scope 2 and 3 GHG emissions.
We have pointed out in a number of submissions that the management of refrigerants is arguably the world’s leading opportunity to mitigate global warming.
• It is widely accepted that improved management and phase-down of F-gases offers an opportunity to mitigate the impact of global warming by as much as 0.5°C by the year 2100 – this is quoted extensively in government reporting and information releases.
• The Project Drawdown 2020 Review ranked refrigerant management and alternativerefrigerants as respectively the number 4 and number 7 opportunities to mitigate global warming between 2020 and 2050, ‘alternative refrigerants’ being a proxy for the Kigali phase-down of HFCs. The first publication of the Project Drawdown Review in 2017 aggregated refrigerant management and alternative refrigerants ranking them as the number one opportunity to mitigate global warming.
Redesigning the vocational education and training system
HVAC&R Centre has also recently submitted its response to the Government’s proposed redesign of the nation’s vocational education and training system
The Government is considering reforms to New Zealand’s vocational education system, with the three proposals being:
• A redesigned Institute of Technology and Polytechnic (ITP) network that retains access to ITP provision in all regions, through a combination of stand-alone and federated ITPs.
• Options for an industry-led system for standards-setting and industry training.
• Changes to vocational education funding from 2026 (in addition to those agreed for 2025) to better support the reformed system.
Overall, HVAC&R Centre agrees that there needs to be a restructuring of the ITPs in order to ensure their longterm sustainability.
In our response, we’ve highlighted that a major problem with the current HVAC&R apprenticeship system is the lack of qualifications to undertake HVAC&R work. Unlike Australia, we do not have a work class practising licence system – meaning there is little preventing underqualified persons doing HVAC&R work.
By reconfiguring the ITP sector, HVAC&R Centre believes there is an opportunity for the sector to be presented with an apprenticeship system that is fit-for-purpose, provided it is structured sensibly.
However, the HVAC&R industry has been categorised into the Hanga-Aro-Rau (Manufacturing, Engineering and Logistics) WDC. HVAC&R is the primary building service in commercial buildings and has a significant presence in other building types – making it far more aligned to the construction and infrastructure sector than to the manufacturing, engineering and logistics sectors.
The HVAC&R industry considers its inclusion in the Manufacturing, Engineering and Logistics WDC as a significant step backwards in terms of vocational training. We attribute the failure of the WDC to meet our industry’s needs in part that it includes such a wide diversity of industry types that it’s nigh on impossible for it to adequately service all sectors – industry sectors are not homogenous, a one-fits all solution won’t work. This led to dissatisfaction where our industry believed that it was not being represented by the right people on the WDC and its policy groups, the conflict ending up with the responsible WDC manager telling the industry that the WDC would make the final decisions. The industry saw this as being top-down bureaucracy of the worst kind.
Much more is discussed in our full submission, including our view on funding; creating a federation model for some ITPs; the minimum programmes and roles that need to be delivered by the new ITP sector; the critical factors needed to best support a federation model; and establishing an industry-led system for standards setting and industry training.
Read the full submission by the HVAC&R Centre on the HVAC&R Centre website.
HVAC Depot’s Professional Growth Seminar a Great Success
The HVAC Depot’s highly anticipated HVAC Professional Growth Seminar drew a crowd of over 30 industry professionals, marking another successful step toward advancing professional development in the HVAC sector. The event, held recently, provided attendees with key insights from top experts and fostered meaningful discussions on current industry practices.
Expert Contributions
The seminar featured a stellar lineup of speakers who delivered valuable presentations:
Carl Llewelyn, a representative from WorkSafe, led a session on critical safety protocols, emphasising the importance of adhering to safety guidelines in the HVAC industry.
Charlene Zhang from HomeTouch Electrical & Automation Ltd provided a comprehensive overview of the latest electrical regulations,
ensuring attendees were up to date with evolving standards.
Saber Salehirad, representing HVAC Depot, introduced the company’s newly developed ventilation guidelines, setting a clear framework for optimised air quality and system efficiency.
Ling Meng, from Fluid Engineering Consultancy, shared her expertise on electrical engineering and the coordination of building services, offering attendees practical knowledge on integrating these elements into HVAC projects.
Samsung brought the event to a close by showcasing their innovative HVAC solutions. The session included a special promotion, exclusive insights, and a lively quiz with prizes awarded to winners, adding an exciting twist to the day.
Networking and More
Beyond the informative sessions, attendees enjoyed the networking
opportunities, exchanging ideas and forging new partnerships within the industry. The event also featured a delightful BBQ, where guests enjoyed roasted lamb while discussing the future of HVAC technology and regulations.
Looking Ahead
The success of this seminar reflects HVAC Depot’s commitment to fostering professional growth within the industry. Attendees left with enhanced knowledge and valuable connections, eager for the next event.
As HVAC Depot continues to organise similar seminars, the company is dedicated to creating an environment where professionals can thrive, learn, and contribute to the ever-evolving HVAC landscape.
Stay tuned for more opportunities to engage, learn, and grow together!
Doing privacy well
The Office of the Privacy Commissioner - Te Mana Mātāpono Matatapu has recently launched a free online toolkit to help businesses and organisations do privacy well
Our country’s organisations and businesses are diverse, and having strong privacy looks different for each. The new online toolkit, called Poupou Matatapu, aims to help everyone choose solutions that are fit for purpose. When developing Poupou Matatapu, the team behind the toolkit worked with organisations to identify what they struggled with when complying with the Privacy Act and what kind of policies and processes would help manage their privacy obligations and risk. They were also asked how they could be assisted to build a privacy-protective culture throughout their organisation.
The Office often sees that organisations’ privacy programmes are reactive, responding to a specific event or inquiry or not having the time or resources to proactively implement a strategy. Organisations often improve practice by responding to the event but may then lose momentum. Building an effective privacy management system requires continuous improvement to lift capability, maintain good practice once this is achieved, and establish a privacy culture that reflects the values of your organisation.
“Poupou Matatapu sets our expectations about what good privacy practice looks like and then helps you get there. Doing privacy well is essential for compliance and risk management, but it also helps your organisation to improve its data quality, innovation, customer and stakeholder trust, and decision-making processes,” says Michael Webster, Privacy Commissioner.
“A strong privacy culture is increasingly a competitive advantage.”
What does the name Poupou Matatapu mean?
The meaning behind te reo Māori name Poupou Matatapu is the poupou (posts or pillars) of matatapu (privacy). Essentially, the foundations of doing privacy well.
The 10 pillars of the toolkit are:
1. Governance
2. Know your personal information
3. Security and internal access controls
4. Transparency
5. Building capability and awareness
6. Breach management
7. Responding to requests and complains well
8. Assessing risk
9. Measure and monitor
10. Privacy management plan
Take charge of your organisation’s privacy by visiting the online toolkit.
The Perfect Commisioning System
testo 570s, the digital manifolds with 4-way valve block, Bluetooth and large data memory, are opening up the future of intelligent longterm measurement on refrigeration and HVAC Industries.
testo 770-3
testo 560i Digital Refrigerant Scale and intelligent valve for automatic and precise refrigerant charging according to target superheat, subcooling, and refrigerant weight.
testo 570s Smart Digital Manifold
testo 770-3, the most powerful clamp meter, ideal for current measurement in switching cabinets. It is perfect for measuring tasks in tight application environments.
testo 560i Digital Scale & Valve
Clamp Meter
Give te reo a go
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori is an annual celebration for all New Zealanders to show their support for the Māori language, an official language of this country
Each year the event has a theme, and this year’s theme for Te Wiki 2024 was ‘Ake ake ake – A Forever Language’, representing the resilience, adaptability and endurance of Te Reo.
Ake Ake Ake
In World War II, the 28th Māori Battalion marched into Europe singing “Ake! Ake! Kia Kaha e!”. Today the phrase ends karakia and speeches with unity and solidarity. ‘Ake ake ake’ symbolises hope and resilience.
The ake ake tree is also known for its resilience. It produces some of the strongest of all native woods and grows in some of the harshest climates. The name ake ake reminds us the tree is durable. Just like te reo Māori.
“We can think of te reo Māori as a seedling with potential. Raised with others, given care and effort, it can grow and give shelter for future generations. Every action helps to make te reo Māori a living language across Aotearoa.”
HVAC&R ALL UNDER ONE ROOF
IRHACE and CCCANZ launches new brand and website
“The HVAC&R industry is undergoing significant change, and with that comes an opportunity for a unified approach,” says IRHACE and CCCANZ CEO Gina McMaster.
In response to this, IRHACE and CCCANZ have launched new branding and a website under the umbrella of the HVAC&R Centre, which brings together the key players in the industry. The Centre aims to provide a cohesive platform where HVAC&R professionals, government, the public and other stakeholders can collaborate effectively.
This initiative seeks to enhance the visibility and representation of the HVAC&R sector in New Zealand’s built environment. By adopting an ‘all under one roof’ strategy, the HVAC&R Centre streamlines industry communication, making it easier for members to access resources and for the industry to engage in meaningful dialogues with policymakers. With a focus on measurable outcomes, the Centre aims to lead industry initiatives and become a credible point of reference.
The new website and branding are intended to improve the efficiency of services, providing better access to resources, events, training and industry updates. This shift not only strengthens the voice of the industry but also positions it to handle the rapid changes and challenges that the HVAC&R sector is currently facing.
Some features of the new HVAC&R Centre website:
• Search capabilities across HVAC&R professionals and companies
• Centralised resource and news libraries
• Modern design and better viewing on all devices
“This is the first phase of this project and there is more coming,” McMaster says. “The industry associations have strength in one voice, ensuring our industry is heard and represented.”
Earn CPD Points!
The aim is to educate the HVAC&R industry focused on the design and technical context in which the product may be applied, not on the product itself. This may include seminars, research papers with quiz questions, practical workshops, short courses, events, online learning or site visits.
COURSES & WEBINARS
Provider approved CPD learning courses that include technical information of the highest standard and relevant to New Zealand.
EVENTS
Selected events that meet the level of technical information and relevant to New Zealand.
TECHNICAL
Technical activities that are educational and well balanced.
RECOMMENDED
The CPD system also includes an area for recommended activities that do not earn CPD points due to length of time or not of a technical nature.
DISCUSSION BOARD
IRHACE members enjoy being invited to technical discussions on CPD activities, projects and other technical issues.
1pt
September 2024
Member Milestones
10 Years
David Sekula
Paul Grbich
Hayden Sutherland
60 Years
Alan Jaffe
CPD Leaderboard
Top four of our members on the leaderboard for earning CPD points.
1. Bradford Johanson
2. Ismail Hussain
3. Ayden Hudson
4. Aaron Hawes
WorldSkills New Zealand team in Lyon, France 2024
Alan Jaffe
Member company listing covering New Zealand from Northland to Southland and in between.
MEET THE BOARD
What is your background?
I am a Level 4 qualified refrigeration engineer, M.IRHACE and an IQP for Auckland City Council.
What is your current business role?
Company Director of Absolute Air Conditioning and Refrigeration since 1989 and member of CCCANZ since 2011.
What are you passionate about in the HVAC&R industry?
Training, compliance and standards. The diversity of projects – from residential installations to complex commercial and industrial systems – keeps the work dynamic and challenging.
MEMBER HIGHLIGHT
Grant Group - Air Conditioning Group
Air Conditioning Group, a subsidiary of Grant Group, is based in Cambridge and Hamilton, servicing Waikato, Auckland and Bay of Plenty. They specialise in heating, cooling, ventilation and air purification for homes, rental properties, businesses and commercial buildings.
Contact Ian Grant https://www.aircongroupwaikato.co.nz/ Phone: 0508 224 7687
Name: Malcolm Miller - Absolute Air Conditioning Role: Board Director
L-R: Malcolm Miller, Glynn Cowley
Member company listing covering New Zealand from Northland Southland and in between.
Using web analytics
Web analytics can help you understand how your customers use your online store so you can see what’s working and what isn’t.
It can show you:
• What products or services are most popular;
• How customers find your website;
• How long customers stay on your website;
• Which pages they navigate to;
• What device they use.
Consider what your business goals are – for example, selling a particular product or increasing the number of people visiting your website.
By knowing your goals, you will be able to work out what data you want to capture and why.
There are a number of tools available to measure your web analytics. Check if your website provider has its own version of analytics that suits your needs. Otherwise, you can find web analytics providers online, for example, Google Analytics is a free, comprehensive and popular method of tracking analytics.
Taking climate action makes good business sense
The Climate Action Toolbox can be used by all small to medium-sized Kiwi businesses to measure their carbon footprint and identify the most relevant actions to cut emissions, with a plan tailored to them.
The toolbox also includes specific guidance for businesses in the manufacturing and construction sectors.
All businesses have a role to play in reducing emissions. You could reduce the impacts of your business by using less energy, looking at your supply chain and managing your waste. Small actions all add up.
Why should your business be taking climate action? Because it makes good business sense.
In the changing world we live in, understanding business emissions will become increasingly important.
By understanding business emissions, you will:
• Be prepared, and ready to adapt to change, risks and opportunities.
• Keep your business attractive to customers, business partners, lenders and insurers.
• Save money by reducing costs with efficient processes and ways of operating.
• Benefit from long-term thinking. Consider how outputs from your business could contribute to new or improved revenue streams, for example, turning byproducts or waste into a source of revenue.
The updates to the toolbox for New Zealand manufacturers were marked on 29 July this year by the Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing, Andrew Bayly. If you’re interested in learning more, you can watch the recording of the event launch and download the emissions report.
