Sustainability Report

My current home is a duplex in the Sydney suburb of Punchbowl, it is

a two-story house with a north facing orientation and is currently
occupied by my family of 4.

Michael Kortbani – 22086533

Date 17/09/2023

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Table of Contents
Executive Summary............................................................................................................3
Introduction.......................................................................................................................3
Description of Current House..............................................................................................4
Solar Water Heating System...............................................................................................4
3.1 System specifications............................................................................................................4
3.2 System working principles....................................................................................................5
3.3 System integration into the home.........................................................................................5
3.4 Solar water heating - Advantages & Disadvantages...............................................................5
Conclusion.........................................................................................................................6

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Executive Summary
This study centres on enhancing the residential structure in Australia, particularly my own
home, with a focus on selecting, outlining, and elucidating a sustainable energy, water, or
waste system or material. The chosen system, modern solar water heating technology,
stands as a testament to its capacity to optimize energy efficiency and minimize
environmental impact. This report provides a comprehensive assessment of my home's
current state, taking into account its climate, location, and orientation. Additionally, it delves
into the merits, advantages, and limitations of implementing the proposed solar water
heating system.

Introduction
Ensuring the sustainability of contemporary architectural and construction practices is
paramount. This study delves into the process of enhancing my residence in Australia,
aiming to transform it into a more eco-conscious residential structure. To enhance the
overall sustainability of the house, the objective is to select, explain, and elaborate on a
fresh energy, water, or waste system or material that can seamlessly be incorporated into
the structure.

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Description of Current House
My house is a duplex which is attached side to side with the other house. It is two stories
high in a Sydney suburb of Punchbowl. In relations to the National Construction Code (NCC)
it is classified as Class 1, According to the NCC, a Class 1 house is characterized as a structure
that constitutes either an individual, freestanding dwelling (referred to as a detached
house), or one within a cluster of attached residences, such as a townhouse, duplex, or
similar configuration. It currently has 4 people living there which means iit relies on
electricity for lighting, hot water, appliance use and much more. The house has been
orientated to face north with large windows allowing maximized natural lighting minimizing
lights needed to be on. Our current electric water heater leads to a substantial increase in
our energy expenses.

Solar Water Heating System

3.1 System specifications

Solar water heating refers to a renewable energy technology that utilizes sunlight to heat
water for various domestic or industrial purposes. It typically involves the installation of solar
collectors, which absorb sunlight and transfer the thermal energy to a fluid within the system.
This heated fluid is then used to raise the temperature of water stored in a tank, providing a
source of hot water for activities like bathing, cleaning, and space heating. Solar water
heating systems are considered an eco-friendly alternative to conventional water heaters
powered by fossil fuels, as they reduce reliance on non-renewable resources and help lower
greenhouse gas emissions.

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3.2 System working principles
Operating on the principle of harnessing solar energy, the solar water heating system utilizes
absorber plates within the solar collectors to absorb sunlight and convert it into heat. This
process leads to an increase in the temperature of the water within the collector tubes. Once
transferred to the storage tank, the heated water becomes readily accessible for various
applications.

3.3 System integration into the home

Positioned on the north-facing roof of my residence, the solar collectors will be strategically
installed to maximize sun exposure when incorporating the solar water heating system. The
existing utility room will serve as the designated placement for the hot water storage tank,
seamlessly integrated into the house's plumbing system. To guarantee efficient functionality,
the control system will be programmed to monitor and regulate water temperatures.

3.4 Solar water heating - Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages Disadvantages
- Renewable and Sustainable - High Initial Cost

- Reduced Energy Costs - Dependent on Sunlight Availability

- Financial Incentives - Space Requirements

- Long Lifespan and Low Maintenance - Weather Impact

- Property Value Enhancement - Seasonal Variations

- Technology Advancements - Complex Installation and

Maintenance

- Potential for System Malfunctions

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Conclusion
In conclusion, implementing a solar water heating system in my house presents a myriad of
compelling benefits. Notably, it offers a sustainable and renewable alternative to
conventional water heating methods, significantly reducing our reliance on non-renewable
resources. This transition translates to substantial long-term savings, as it cuts energy costs
associated with outdated electric water heating. Moreover, the reduced environmental impact
is noteworthy, contributing to a greener, more eco-conscious household. By strategically
positioning the solar collectors on the north-facing roof, we maximize sun exposure,
optimizing the system's efficiency. The integration of a dedicated storage tank within the
current utility room seamlessly integrates the system into our existing plumbing, ensuring a
reliable and continuous supply of hot water. Additionally, the implemented control system
will further enhance operational effectiveness, fine-tuning water temperatures to meet our
specific needs. While acknowledging the initial investment, the advantages of significantly
less energy expenses and a much lower environmental footprint make the installation of a
solar water heating system a wise choice moving forward. This system aligns with a
commitment to reducing our environmental footprint but also enhances the overall value and
efficiency of the house. As we move forward, this system will not only contribute to a more
environmentally conscious lifestyle but also serve as a testament to our dedication to a
greener, more sustainable future.

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Reference List

1. Getting to know your solar water heater(SoCalGas)(2023)Getting to know

your solar water heater (SoCalGas) URL: https://www.socalgas.com/save-
money-and-energy/rebates-and-incentives/gettin g-to-know-your-solar-water-
heater Accessed 7/09

2. Pros and cons of solar hot water (EnergySage)(2023)Pros and cons of solar
hot water (EnergySage) URL: https://news.energysage.com/pros-and-cons-of-
solar-hot-water/ Accessed 7/09

3. 5 benefits of solar hot water systems (Tempco) (2022)5 benefits of solar hot
water systems (Tempco) URL: https://www.tempcoenergy.com.au/5-benefits-of-
solar-hot-water-systems/ Accessed 8/09

4. Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy.

(2023). Energy Information for all Australians. Australian Government Department
of the Environment and Energy. URL: https://www.energy.gov.au/ Accessed 8/09.

5. Solar water heaters (EnergySaver) (2023) Solar water heaters (EnergySaver)

URL: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/solar-water-heaters Accessed 8/09

6. What is a solar water heater and how do they work (Electronics and you)
(2023) How solar water heaters work. URL:
http://www.electronicsandyou.com/how-solar-water-heater-works.html accessed
9/09

7. Solar water heating (WBDG) (2023) whole building design guide URL:
https://www.wbdg.org/resources/solar-water-heating accessed 9/09