The growth of medium density housing continues, with approvals having now reached an all-time high and no slowdown in sight.
As medium density design becomes an increasingly significant part of many architects’ jobs, understanding and addressing the unique challenges of medium density design becomes crucial.
In these developments where space is at a premium, maximising what space is available is a critical consideration through every step of the design process. These challenges demand creative solutions and design innovations.
One important aspect often overlooked until later in the design process is the choice of hot water systems. Failure to consider the appropriate hot water technologies and installation location in the initial design stages can have an adverse impact on the aesthetics and amenity of a dwelling.
Analysis and comparison of hot water technologies for medium density developments in Australia has been carried out in a report entitled “Hot Water Systems for medium density housing”. Key considerations in the report include capital cost, running cost, space efficiency and comfort factors such as water capacity, flow rate and temperature control. This analysis provides an invaluable reference guide for architects, specifiers, and builders, comparing and contrasting the available product technologies.
A recently released innovative new hot water product, the Bosch 4000S, is evaluated in the report. The Bosch 4000S has been developed specifically for the Australian medium density market, drawing on substantial European experience with medium density construction, and high efficiency internally installed hot water appliances.
The Bosch 4000S is a 6 star, internal (room sealed), gas continuous flow hot water system available in output capacities of 12, 16 and 20 litres per minute and not only ideal for medium density, but also unique in the Australian market. The 4000S incorporates Bosch’s patented Optiflow combustion management technology that optimally controls the consumption of gas and air in the burner over the lifetime of the appliance.
This product family is extremely compact, and sold with a coaxial fluing system that offers extreme flexibility for the designer and installer to integrate this appliance into unobtrusive spaces within a dwelling. The stylish European design of the Bosch 4000S negates the need to hide the appliance in cupboards or other spaces if desired, as this type of product is commonly installed in kitchens or laundries in the northern hemisphere. A concept not yet embraced in Australia.
To find out more about which hot water systems are best for medium density design, click here to download this free Specifiers Guide.
