Design hydronic heating and cooling systems

Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:44 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Unit of competency

National Code
CPCPMS5013

State Code
OCN37

TGA Status
Current

DTWD Status
Approved

Current Release Number
2.00

Current Release Date
23/12/2020

View on TGA

State Implementation and Classification

Approved Date

01/06/2021

Field of Education

040327 - Plumbing

Original Release Date

01/06/2021

Nominal Hours

Description

This unit specifies the skills and knowledge required to design hydronic heating and cooling systems, determine relevant installation details and prepare system specifications for residential and commercial buildings with at least three split levels and incorporating a roof top plant room and under croft level.The role involves interaction with architects, builders, suppliers, clients and relevant planning authorities and requires a sound understanding of applicable legislation, standards and codes.This unit is suitable for experienced tradespeople such as hydraulic design consultants or persons in a supervisory capacity in relation to plumbing services on a new or existing site. In some jurisdictions, this unit of competency may form part of accreditation, licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements.

Notes

Elements and Performance Criteria

1 Evaluate design parameters.

1.1 Establish scope of work for hydronic heating and cooling systems using codes, plans, specifications manufacturer requirements and client brief.
1.2 Determine design requirements from relevant Australian standards, codes, plans and specifications.
1.3 Analyse and apply statutory and regulatory requirements and relevant Australian standards and codes for the design of hydronic heating and cooling systems.
1.4 Apply sustainability principles and concepts throughout the design process.
1.5 Establish performance requirements considering safety of system users or building occupants.
1.6 Conduct research to outline design parameters.
1.7 Determine factors that contribute to quality, safety and time efficiency.
1.8 Conduct cost-benefit analysis to compare a range of pipe materials and system designs.

2 Plan and detail system components.

2.1 Plan layout of pipework systems including type and location of fittings and valves.
2.2 Perform pipe size requirement calculations for a range of applications according to regulations and manufacturer requirements.
2.3 Specify system components and circuits.
2.4 Detail pump and compressor systems.
2.5 Specify distribution flows, velocities and pressures for a range of applications.
2.6 Specify insulation for the application.
2.7 Plan pipe supports for a range of applications.
2.8 Specify approved materials, jointing methods and installation requirements for hydronic heating and cooling systems.
2.9 Provide allowance for expansion and contraction.

3 Design and size systems.

3.1 Design hydronic systems and circuits for a range of applications.
3.2 Design and size hydronic systems using calculations and computer software packages.
3.3 Design and size manifold distribution systems for hydronic systems.
3.4 Design and size pumps associated with hydronic systems.

4 Prepare documentation.

4.1 Prepare a client brief for the preferred design.
4.2 Prepare plans and specifications for a range of hydronic heating and cooling systems.
4.3 Prepare testing and commissioning schedule.
4.4 Produce an operation and maintenance manual.

No information

Replaces

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
WF932	CPCPMS5013A	Design hydronic heating and cooling systems	Unit of competency

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BGB3	CPC50620	Diploma of Hydraulic Services Design	Qualification