H6 - Energy Efficiency
Short Version
Energy efficiency is about more than bills. Homes that perform well thermally are typically more comfortable, less reliant on heating/cooling, and more resilient during extreme weather. Part H6 – Energy Efficiency exists to lift the baseline so housing is reasonably efficient and comfortable for its climate zone.
H6 is concerned with how the building fabric and design influence energy demand, including:
- Heat entering and leaving through roof, walls, floors and glazing
- Air leakage (drafts) and uncontrolled airflow
- Design decisions that influence overheating or heat loss
The intent is to reduce unnecessary energy use while maintaining reasonable indoor comfort.
Why a Performance Solution May Be Needed for Part H6
Performance Solutions for H6 are commonly used where a design does not align neatly with prescriptive DTS settings—large or atypical glazing, high ceilings, complex forms, mixed construction systems, innovative wall/roof assemblies, or alternative insulation and sealing strategies. A Performance Solution can demonstrate compliance by assessing the building’s overall thermal performance, typically through modelling/calculations and verified product data, supported by construction detailing to manage thermal bridging and air leakage.
Performance Solution Topics - H6
Large areas of glazing, unusual window-to-wall ratios, or extensive skylights may require a Performance Solution to demonstrate acceptable thermal performance and control overheating/heat loss.
Architectural forms that increase heat gain or loss (high ceilings, raked roofs, complex envelopes) may require a Performance Solution to demonstrate whole-of-building energy efficiency outcomes.
Mixed construction systems or non-standard wall/roof assemblies may require a Performance Solution to demonstrate equivalent insulation performance, manage thermal bridging, and maintain continuity of the thermal envelope.
Alternative products or systems not directly addressed by DTS pathways may require a Performance Solution to demonstrate equivalent energy performance using verified evidence and modelling.
Designs with atypical sealing/ventilation strategies (including higher ventilation rates or specific indoor air quality systems) may require a Performance Solution to balance energy efficiency with the required ventilation outcomes.
Want to read how we have helped out with H6 Performance Solutions?
Read about past projects we've helped out with below:
Fire Separation and Articulation Joints
Fire Engineering for Townhouses
Leaving no gaps for non-compliance
