1 Conducting tests
This Schedule sets out requirements for conducting tests in relation to Part 3, Part 4 and Part 5 of this Determination.
2 General
(1) This section applies to all tests conducted for the purposes of Part 3, Part 4 and Part 5 of this Determination.
Rounding and significant figures
(2) Unless otherwise stated, numbers must be rounded and recorded to five significant figures.
Use of circumvention devices
(3) Circumvention devices must not be used.
Solar-boosted air conditioners
(4) Solar-boosted air conditioners must be tested with any solar input minimised or disconnected, as far as possible.
Definitions
(5) In this section:
circumvention device means any control, control device, software, component or part that alters the operating characteristics during any test procedure, resulting in measurements that are unrepresentative of the appliance’s true characteristics that may occur during normal use under comparable conditions.
Note 1: Generally, circumvention devices save energy during an energy test, but not during normal use.
Note 2: An example of a circumvention device would be a mechanism that de-activates a crankcase heater or other energy-consuming devices during the test.
Note 3: Locking instructions, or software or hardware that sets the compressor output, fan speeds and other settings for a rated test, are not considered circumvention devices.
solar-boosted air conditioner means an air conditioner that has provision for the input of energy from a solar source and can be configured to operate with little or no solar input.
3 Test simulation software
(1) This section applies to all tests conducted for the purposes of Part 3 and Part 5 of this Determination.
Restriction on use of test simulation software
(2) Test simulation software must not be used other than in accordance with this section.
(3) Test simulation software must not be used for a product in product class 3, 4, 22 or 23.
(4) Test simulation software must not be used:
(a) to test noise (sound power); or
(b) to test average true power factor; or
(c) to conduct the tests referred to in subsections 8(3) and (4) of this Schedule at H2 or H3 temperature conditions.
Note 1: For noise (sound power), see section 9 of this Schedule.
Note 2: For average true power factor, see section 40 of this Determination and section 16 of this Schedule.
Note 3: The tests referred to in subsections 8(3) and (4) of this Schedule are used when determining SEER ratings, and in particular, when determining:
the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF), and hence the star rating (see section 31 of, and Schedule 5 to, this Determination); and
the Heating Season Total Energy Consumption (see section 30 of, and section 6 of Schedule 3 to, this Determination).
As a result, simulation software cannot be used on its own in order to determine these SEER ratings.
Use of test simulation software—product classes other than 3, 4, 22 and 23
(5) The GEMS Regulator may authorise, in writing, a particular test simulation software package for a product or products that:
(a) are in product classes other than 3, 4, 22 or 23; and
(b) are of a particular type;
if satisfied that the software package has an accuracy equivalent to the relevant physical test standard for products that are in those product classes and of that type.
Note 1: Evidence of accuracy to this level may include (but is not limited to) a full physical test report and a full simulation test report on the same product.
Note 2: The GEMS Regulator may require separate evidence of the accuracy of the software package for each product class/type combination for which the supplier wishes to use it.
(6) Test simulation software that has been so authorised may be used for:
(a) products:
(i) that have a rated standard cooling full capacity or, for heating‑only products, a rated standard heating full capacity, of 30kW; and
(ii) that are of the same type as the product for which the software has been authorised; and
(iii) that are in the product classes specified in the authorisation; or
(b) products:
(i) that have a rated standard cooling full capacity or, for heating‑only products, a rated standard heating full capacity, of 30kW; and
(ii) that are of the same type as the product for which the software has been authorised; and
(iii) that are in the product classes specified in the authorisation, but that are not in product class 1 or 2; and
(iv) for which the sales of the model of the products have been or will be less than 10 units in the financial year in which registration occurred, and each subsequent financial year.
Note: The GEMS Regulator may request evidence of sales volumes to demonstrate compliance with subparagraph (6)(b)(iv), under section 56 of the Act.
Definitions
(7) In this section
relevant physical test standard means:
(a) for non-ducted air conditioners—AS/NZS 3823.1.1:2012; and
(b) for ducted air conditioners—AS/NZS 3823.1.2:2012; and
(c) for multi-split systems—AS/NZS 3823.1.4:2012.
test simulation software means a computer-based software package that uses simplified measurements and other data to estimate relevant product performance without the need for a full, physical test.
type: the following are the types of products:
(a) ducted split systems;
(b) non‑ducted split systems;
(c) multi‑split systems;
(d) ducted unitary systems;
(e) non‑ducted unitary systems.
4 Use of calorimeter and air enthalpy test methods
(1) This section applies in relation to all tests undertaken for the purposes of Part 3 and Part 4 (other than sound testing) of this Determination.
(2) This section does not apply in relation to a simulation test that was conducted in accordance with section 3 of this Schedule.
(3) For a test of a kind indicated in the following table that is conducted in relation to a product indicated in the corresponding row of the table, the test method, or any of the test methods, indicated in the corresponding row of the table must be used.
Note: These tests are outlined in AS/NZS 3823.1.1:2012, AS/NZS 3823.1.2:2012 and AS/NZS 3823.1.4:2012.
| Tests | Products | Indoor enthalpy test method | Calorimeter room test method | Shortened calorimeter room test spanning 3 complete defrost cycles |
|---|
| 1 | the following tests for the purposes of Part 4:<br>(a) low temperature heating capacity test (H2); and<br>(b) extra‑low temperature heating capacity test (H3) | all products (whether single‑phase or three‑phase) other than products in product class 3 or 4 | × | × | × |
| 2 | any test not covered by item 1 | (a) products in product class 3 or 4 (whether single‑phase or three‑phase); | | × | |
| | (b) single‑phase, non‑ducted products in product class 1, 2, 5, 6 or 7, other than such products that are registered on the basis that a label will not be displayed at the time of supply or offer of supply; | | × | |
| | (c) single‑phase, non‑ducted products in product class 8, 9, 11 or 12, other than such products:<br>(i) with a ceiling cassette as the indoor unit; or<br>(ii) that are registered on the basis that a label will not be displayed at the time of supply or offer of supply | | × | |
| | (d) any product not covered by paragraph (a), (b) or (c) | × | × | |
5 Use of default test values in AS/NZS 3823.4.1:2014
For Part 4 of this Determination, fixed capacity products may elect to use the default values of Table 1 of AS/NZS 3823.4.1:2014 for the low temperature cooling capacity test, rather than perform a physical test at these conditions.
Note: These defaults are based on tested values from the standard cooling full capacity test. The standard cooling full capacity is multiplied by 1.077 and the power input is multiplied by 0.914.
6 Rating variable capacity products as fixed capacity products
For Part 4 of this Determination, variable capacity, two-stage capacity, and multi-stage capacity units may elect to be tested and rated as a fixed capacity product for the purposes of testing to Table 1 of AS/NZS 3823.4.1:2014 and/or AS/NZS 3823.4.2:2014.
Note 1: A low temperature cooling capacity test may be performed using the locking instructions for the standard cooling full capacity test. Alternatively, the default values may be used as per section 5 of this Schedule.
Note 2: A low temperature heating capacity test at full capacity may be performed using the locking instructions for the standard heating full capacity test.
7 Degradation coefficient of AS/NZS 3823.4
For Part 4 of this Determination, the value for the Degradation Coefficient (CD) of Table 1 in both AS/NZS 3823.4.1:2014 and AS/NZS 3823.4.2:2014 may not be changed from the default value of 0.25.
8 Seasonal rating tests
(1) This section applies:
(a) to a product in a product class other than 3, 4, 22 and 23; and
(b) in relation to tests relating to a SEER rating that are conducted for Part 4 of this Determination.
Note: This section applies to product classes other than those covering water‑to‑air air conditioners and unitary single duct air conditioners.
(2) Subject to sections 5 to 7 of this Schedule, an air conditioner that has a cooling capability must be tested to the required cooling test points identified in Table 1 in AS/NZS 3823.4.1:2014, as per its product type.
(3) Subject to sections 6 and 7 of this Schedule, an air conditioner that has:
(a) a heating capability; and
(b) for an air conditioner that also has a cooling capability—a rated standard cooling full capacity of < 30kW; and
(c) for a heating‑only product—a rated standard heating full capacity of < 30kW;
must be tested to the required heating test points identified in Table 1 in AS/NZS 3823.4.2:2014, as per its product type.
Note 1: The heating test points correspond to temperature conditions H1, H2 and H3.
Note 2: See paragraph 3(4)(c) of this Schedule for when tests referred to in subsection (3) cannot be done using test simulation software.
(4) Subject to sections 6 and 7 of this Schedule, an air conditioner that has:
(a) a heating capability; and
(b) for an air conditioner that also has a cooling capability—a rated standard cooling full capacity of 30kW; and
(c) for a heating‑only product—a rated standard heating full capacity of 30kW;
must either:
(d) be tested to the required heating test points identified in Table 1 in AS/NZS 3823.4.2:2014, as per its product type; or
(e) be tested and rated as per the standard heating full capacity test.
Note 1: The heating test points correspond to temperature conditions H1, H2 and H3.
Note 2: See paragraph 3(4)(c) of this Schedule for when tests referred to in subsection (4) cannot be done using test simulation software.
(5) In the case of subsection (2), subsection (3) or paragraph (4)(d), any of the optional tests may also be performed.
Note: Testing at H3 is optional under AS/NZS 3823.4.2:2014.
(6) In this section:
product type means fixed capacity, two-stage capacity, variable or variable capacity.
9 Noise (sound power) testing
(1) For section 8 of Schedule 3 to this Determination, sound power tests must be conducted according to either EN 12102:2013 or EN 12102‑1:2017.
(2) Tests must be conducted using the installation and operating conditions of:
(a) the standard cooling full capacity test; or
(b) for heating only products—the standard heating full capacity test.
10 Specific requirements for multi-split outdoor units
Note: For multi‑split outdoor units, the relevant product classes are 18 to 21, “Air to air multi-split outdoor units (whether or not supplied or offered for supply as part of a multi-split system)”.
Each of these product classes covers only the multi‑split outdoor unit itself; the unit may be supplied or offered for supply in relation to any appropriate system of outdoor and indoor units (including a system with a single indoor unit).
(1) This section applies in relation to all tests undertaken for the purposes of Part 3 and Part 5 of this Determination.
(2) The test results for a multi-split outdoor unit are based on a multi‑split system. The outdoor unit model is to be tested using a representative combination of indoor units. The representative combination of indoor units must:
(a) consist of units that are readily available for possible check-testing purposes; and
(b) for a VRF type unit—not be less than the manufacturer’s specified minimum number of indoor units; and
(c) for a fixed head product—consist of a dedicated indoor unit for each refrigeration port on the outdoor unit; and
(d) be one for which the ratio of:
(i) the sum of the manufacturer’s nominated rated capacities for the indoor units; and
(ii) the manufacturer’s nominated rated capacity for the outdoor unit;
is equal to 1, or is as close as possible to 1 within the range of the manufacturer’s specified connectable indoor units; and
(e) be the same for all heating and cooling tests; and
(f) be configured with a remote control for each indoor unit (unless the controls are integral to the indoor unit).
(3) The documentation of the test must also specify:
(a) the make and model number of each indoor unit; and
(b) the rated capacity for each indoor unit when used in the representative combination; and
(c) the configuration and test setup. Complete setup instructions, including but not limited to piping lengths and layouts, capacity fixing methods, refrigerant charge and system specifications must be included. This may take the form of a printout from the manufacturer’s sales selection software.
Note: A representative indoor unit that is used for the purposes of this section might be the indoor unit of a single‑split system which has an energy rating label pursuant to section 28 of this Determination. In such a case, the rated capacity for the purposes of subparagraph (2)(d)(i) and paragraph (3)(b) of this section might differ from the rated capacity as indicated on the single‑split system’s energy rating label. This is because the rated capacity of an indoor unit can vary depending on the outdoor unit with which it is combined.
11 Alternative test methods for VRF type multi-split outdoor units and products > 30kW
(1) This section applies in relation to all tests undertaken for the purposes of Part 3 and Part 5 of this Determination.
(2) This section applies to:
(a) variable refrigerant flow (VRF) type multi-split outdoor units; and
(b) products that:
(i) are in a product class other than 3, 4, 22 or 23; and
(ii) have a rated standard cooling full capacity or, for heating‑only products, a rated standard heating full capacity, of more than 30kW.
(3) Subject to this section and section 4 of this Schedule, tests for the purposes of Part 3 and Part 5 of this Determination may be undertaken according to the methods set out in the following:
(a) EN 14511:2018;
(b) a standard based on ISO 5151:2017 (non-ducted air conditioners, any VRF multi‑split and fixed head multi-split outdoor unit greater than 30kW rated standard cooling full capacity or, for heating‑only products, rated standard heating full capacity);
(c) a standard based on ISO 13253:2017 (ducted air conditioners);
(d) a standard based on ISO 15042:2017 (multi-split outdoor units);
(e) AHRI 1230:2010.
(4) Subject to this section, information set out in any of the following certificates may be relied on for the purposes of Part 3 and Part 5 of this Determination without further testing being conducted:
(a) an AHRI certificate, being a certified test certificate from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute;
Note: Further information on AHRI certification could, in 2019, be found at www.ahrinet.org.
(b) a Eurovent certificate, being a certified test certificate from the European Association of Air Handling and Refrigerating Equipment Manufacturers.
Note: Further information on Eurovent certification could, in 2019, be found at www.eurovent‑certification.com.
(5) A standard or certificate mentioned in this section may be relied on only in relation to testing at:
(a) an electrical supply voltage of 230V single-phase or 400V three‑phase; and
(b) a frequency of 50Hz; and
(c) the H1, H2, H3 or T1 temperature conditions.
12 Specific requirements for unitary double duct air conditioners
(1) This section applies in relation to all tests undertaken for the purposes of Part 3, Part 4 and Part 5 of this Determination.
Specific requirements for wall mounted unitary double duct air conditioners
(2) Wall mounted unitary double duct air conditioners must use the test procedures of AS/NZS 3823.1.1:2012. They must be installed on the wall of the test chamber as per the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Specific requirements for portable unitary double duct air conditioners
(3) Portable unitary double duct air conditioners must use the general test procedures of AS/NZS 3823.1.1:2012. However, both the exhaust and inlet ducts must be installed as per Appendices A2.1 to A2.5 of AS/NZS 3823.1.5:2015.
(4) Portable unitary double duct air conditioners that contain a condensate container must not have a test interrupted by a full condensate container triggering a cut-off switch. If necessary, condensate containers must be modified to drain away excess condensate into a larger container in the test chamber before the volume that activates the cut-off switch is reached.
Note 1: Some portable unitary double duct air conditioners may have an in-built hose to facilitate the draining of condensate.
Note 2: Some portable unitary double duct air conditioners are designed to collect condensate and evaporate it on the condenser. This process should be allowed to occur during testing.
Note 3: The testing requirements of this subsection mirror the requirements for unitary single duct air conditioners as detailed in AS/NZS 3823.1.5:2015.
(5) For a portable unitary double duct air conditioner that contains a supplementary water tank:
(a) the duration of the tank must be determined during the standard cooling full capacity test; and
(b) in determining this period:
(i) the test setup and test conditions must be as per AS/NZS 3823.1.1:2012; but
(ii) the duration must be determined as per Appendix B of AS/NZS 3823.1.5:2015; and
(c) if the duration of the tank is 4 hours:
(i) all tests may be performed using this feature as per the manufacturer’s instructions; and
(ii) if tests are performed using the tank—any water added to the tank must be 27°C ± 1°C; and
(iii) if the product can operate both with and without the tank—the standard cooling full capacity must be determined both with and without the tank being used; and
(d) if the duration of the tank is 4 hours—the tank must not be used when determining whether the product meets the GEMS level requirement of section 21 of this Determination.
Note 1: If the duration of the tank is less than 4 hours, and the portable unitary double duct air conditioner cannot operate without the tank, the product will not comply with the requirements of this Determination.
Note 2: Some portable unitary double duct air conditioners are fitted with a supplementary water evaporation feature designed to provide additional water for the evaporatively‑cooled condenser and/or compressor. They generally require the user to fill the water tank and manually select an operational mode via the unit’s control panel or remote control that turns this function on. This operational mode may override other thermostat and fan settings and is designed to achieve higher cooling capacities and greater energy efficiency while this feature is active. When these units deactivate their supplementary water evaporation feature (for instance, when insufficient water is detected in the supplementary water tank), they may automatically revert to cooling without the aid of the supplementary water evaporation feature, or they may automatically switch off.
Note 3: This provision is not applicable to wall mounted unitary double duct air conditioners within product class 1.
Note 4: The testing requirements of this subsection mirror the requirements for unitary single duct air conditioners as detailed in AS/NZS 3823.1.5:2015.
Note 5: AS/NZS 3823.4.1:2014 and AS/NZS 3823.4.2:2014 use the test procedures of AS/NZS 3823.1.1:2012 for unitary double duct air conditioners.
13 Specific requirements for portable unitary single duct unit air conditioners
(1) This section applies in relation to all tests undertaken for the purposes of Part 3, Part 4 and Part 5 of this Determination.
(2) For a portable unitary single duct air conditioner (product class 4) that contains a supplementary water tank:
(a) if the duration of the tank is 4 hours:
(i) all tests may be performed using this feature as per the manufacturer’s instructions; and
(ii) if the product can operate both with and without the tank—the standard cooling full capacity must be determined both with and without the tank being used; and
(b) if the duration of the tank is 4 hours—the tank must not be used when determining whether the product meets the GEMS level requirement of section 21 of this Determination.
Note: For a portable unitary single duct air conditioner, the duration of the tank is worked out in accordance with Appendix B of AS/NZS 3823.1.5:2015.
14 Specific requirements for water-to‑air air conditioners
(1) This section applies for the purposes of Part 3 of this Determination.
(2) Water‑to‑air air conditioners (product classes 22 and 23) must be tested to the cooling and (if applicable) heating capacity tests of AS/NZS 3823.1.3:2005.
Note: While the determination of seasonal performance to AS/NZS 3823.4.1:2014 and AS/NZS 3823.4.2:2014 are prohibited for water-to‑air air conditioners, variable capacity products may be tested for part load performance as per the provisions of subsections 23(2) and (3) of this Determination. Part load testing is defined in AS/NZS 3823.1.3:2005.
15 Specific requirements for single‑split outdoor units
(1) This section applies in relation to all tests undertaken for the purposes of Part 3 and Part 5 of this Determination.
(2) A single‑split outdoor unit must be tested using a representative indoor unit. The representative indoor unit must:
(a) be of the same type of indoor air distribution as the outdoor unit is being supplied or offered to be supplied for (i.e. ducted or non‑ducted); and
(b) be specified by make and model number and be readily available for possible check-testing purposes; and
(c) be the same for all cooling and heating tests; and
(d) be configured with a remote control, unless the controls are integral to the indoor unit.
16 Specific requirements for testing for average true power factor
(1) This section applies in relation to tests undertaken for the purposes of Part 5 of this Determination.
(2) The average true power factor must be determined over a period of not less than 5 minutes of operation.
(3) The calculation of the average true power factor value must be based on the results of the standard cooling capacity test, the standard heating capacity test, or both, as applicable, at full load. The values must not be calculated through simulation testing.