New Building Code Regulation: What You Need to Know for November 2024 

Following an update to NZ Building Code Clause G12/AS1, From November 1st, 2024, water temperature at the tap must not exceed 50°C at the tap of any sanitary fixture used for personal hygiene (such as bathrooms). The amendment is a reduction from the current limit of 55°C. 

This adjustment to the water temperature limit was driven by safety concerns, particularly to protect people who are more susceptible to burns and scalds, such as children or the elderly. Lowering the temperature at the tap reduces the risk of injury while still ensuring an adequate supply of hot water for daily use. 

To ensure this temperature drop, a tempering valve needs to be installed as part of any new hot water cylinder installation or replacement. The water inside the cylinder must still be stored at 60°C to prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria. The valves mix hot and cold water to safely reduce the temperature coming from the tap.  

Most installations already include a tempering valve, so they won’t be impacted by the new regulation. However, for “low to low” systems—where the water pressure is already low—adding a tempering valve has now become a requirement. 

We recommend with any low-to-low system installation, a tempering valve should be installed. It is important to note that these changes only affect new installations or replacements. Existing systems are not impacted by this regulation.  

At The Cylinder Guy, we are committed to helping you navigate these regulatory changes. Whether you're installing a new hot water cylinder or upgrading an existing system, we can ensure that your installation meets the latest safety standards. If you have any questions about the new regulations, feel free to reach out to us—we’re here to help you stay compliant and keep you and your home safe. 

For more detailed information, refer to the Building Code Clause to G12/AS1 Amendment 13, Section 6.14.

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