The majority of apartments and town houses were built with hydronic heating.
Heat is controlled by a small white knob n the panel. Turning the knob anti-clockwise will increase the temperature. Turning the knob clockwise will reduce and ultimately turn the heater off. If your heater will not shut off, this is a sign the internal valve has failed. The Building Manager maintains a supply of spare values, which can be replaced at a modest cost. See below for details on reporting issues with your heating unit.
Most panels also have lid running the length of the fixture. Raising the lid promotes air-flow over the heating element and will increase your room temperature. Closing the lid will do the reverse.
Heat from this system is not instantaneous. However, if after 15 minutes you cannot feel any heat coming when you put your hand above the opening of the raised lid, there may be an issue with your heating unit.
Reporting issues with your heating unit
Before reporting an issue, check whether your panel is clean. The heating element within the panel can attract and become blocked by dust. This can be cleaned using a vacuum. Regular cleaning is recommended.
If you have a problem with the valves on your heating panel, this is an owner responsibility. If there is a problem with the communal heating unit, this is a common property issue. Please contact your real estate agent if renting. Owners should contact the Building Manager.
How they work
The hydronic heating systems automatically switch on or off based on ambient rooftop temperature. In winter, the systems will switch on whenever the ambient rooftop temperature drops below 23 degrees. In summer, it is 21 degrees. This temperature activated control prevents the units from running when not needed.
Stage 1 apartments (the non-heritage apartments that make up the majority of the complex) have a communal heating system situated on the roof which typically serves 8 – 12 units. Stage 2 apartments and houses (the heritage apartments on Grattan Place and Grattan Street – share a larger communal heating unit located on the ground.
The heating system may be centrally turned off over summer.
Heating and Hot Water project
The Owners Corporation is currently implementing a major project to progressively replace the ageing and unreliable hydronic gas heating units with new and highly efficient models. The new units will lead to significant cost savings and increase reliability during winter. In time, electric heat pump hydronic systems may become feasible.
