The new Building Code of Australia regulations became effective in May 2011 and will affect the construction of all new pools and in-built spas. For many Australians concerned about energy efficiency, the revised regulations are welcome news, and bring a stronger focus on the advantages of solar heating.

Under these provisions, swimming pools must now use solar heating as their primary source of heat. This can be supplemented by a gas heater or heat pump, or both- but electric resistance heating cannot be used.

These regulations also apply to spas that share a water circulation system with a swimming pool. Portable spas, however, are exempt from these stipulations, and may continue to use electrical resistance heating.

If solar heating cannot be provided as the main heat source, there are possibilities for an alternative solution to be formulated to meet the performance requirements, or an application can be made to the Building Appeals Board.

This article originally appeared here.

Resources:

• Ecosun Australia