The NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change, on behalf of the State and Territory Environment Ministers on the Environment Protection Heritage Council, has prepared a preliminary consultation paper about the proposed Australian and New Zealand Noise Labelling scheme for the air conditioner industry.

link to the consultation paper

A similar paper has also been prepared covering heat pump water heaters.

In 2005-06 an AREMA Sub-committee worked on developing an airconditioner noise standard.  AREMA members have been concerned at the differing way in which manufacturers measure and publicise airconditioner sound levels in their advertising material.  

Current government regulation of sound levels differs between States.  State administrations also differ in measurement protocols and the extent of enforcement action, making consistent advice to consumers by manufacturers and retailers difficult.  This information vacuum can lead to increased costs to consumers.  (see article in the Canberra Times).

A sub-committee has been examining options.  The sub-committee reported to members at the 30 November 2006 general meeting where the Committee Chair (Glenn Townsend of LG) outlined options for the future.  AREMA members could independently develop an Australian Standard by:

1. adopting a code of practice in the measurement and quoting of noise power and level measurements for both indoor and outdoor airconditioning units and ducting.

2. Once adopted, the code be proposed to the ACCC as the benchmark against which all airconditioner advertising is measured.

But a more efficient option would be to adopt of an international standard.  As the ISO had air-conditioner noise on its current workplan, AREMA members will delay independent action until the ISO output is clear.