New NCC 2022 regulations 10.8.2 and 10.8.3 have been released to govern ventilation solutions in residential applications to manage condensation build up to improve health and structural longevity of homes.
NCC 10.8.2 – Condensation Management (Exhaust Systems)
NCC Regulation 10.8.2 governs condensation management in enclosed spaces using exhaust fans. This provision requires moisture moisture-producing area inside residences such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundries to have their exhaust systems vent directly outdoor to prevent condensation build up, which leads growth in mold and structural damage in homes. This provision applies to builds in all climate zones across Australia.
These provisions cover key implications for any indoor ventilation solution.
• Exhaust fans, rangehoods and vented clothes dryers are required to be vented externally to outside air.
• Exhaust fans must have a minimum flow rate requirement of up to 40L/s.
• Some exhaust fans must be connected to the light switch with a 10 minute run-on timer. Clause applies specifically to spaces that do not have a window that is open to the outdoor.
Compliant exhaust fans must have a minimum flow rate of 40L/s (144m3/h) in kitchen or laundry or 25L/s (90m3/h) in bathroom or sanitary compartments. The fan must also be ductable. In some situations, the fans require a run-on timer. Alpine Ventilation offers exhaust fans with in built run on timers to help builders save on time and money when it comes to installing ventilation systems.
Venting these spaces can be done through a multitude of different places. Venting can be done through the roof space, eaves, and walls. These methods of venting have their own pros and cons, and it’s usually a combination of venting solutions that homes will use to comply with NCC regulations.
NCC 10.8.3 – Ventilation of Roof Spaces
NCC 10.8.3 specifies minimum ventilation requirements for roof spaces in Australian climate zones 6,7 and 8 to prevent condensation build up and associated health and structural risks. This involves a mandatory number of low level eaves and high level vent, depending on the total height, pitch and length of roof.
Different pitches and ceiling types have specific requirements, but metal and sarked tiled roofs always require this ventilation. Homes that require venting at the eave with a pitch of <10 degrees also require additional roof venting.
NCC 10.8.3 covers climate zones 6,7, and 8. These zones refer respectively to mild temperature, cool temperature and alpine respectively. Geographically the southern parts of Australia fall into these zones, they mainly cover NSW, SA, Vic, ACT, TAS and WA.
Alpine Ventilation has a complete guide on how to calculate the required vents for any roof space in the Condensation Management Handbook along with a variety of roof vents to ensure compliant with NCC guidelines.
Conclusion
NCC provisions 10.8.2 and 10.8.3 govern condensation management of indoor spaces and roof spaces, with specific requirements for closed indoor spaces and roof spaces according to their height, angle and length. Alpine Ventilation provides innovative ventilation solutions designed at helping new and existing builds meet these regulations while also saving on time and lasting durability. Get in touch to discuss which ventilation solution and products would work best for you.
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