Central Mechanical Exhaust Systems

Toilets, Laundries & Bathrooms

Ductwork Supply

Testing, Compliance & Certification

Central Mechanical Exhaust Systems & Ductwork Supply

At Coastal Flo, we specialise in the servicing, maintenance and supply of Central Mechanical Exhaust Systems (CMES) and high-performance ductwork for multi-residential buildings in Northern NSW, Gold Coast to Brisbane. Our expertise ensures compliant, energy-efficient ventilation solutions that meet the strict requirements of the AS 1668.2.

In high-rise apartment blocks and other residential complexes, internal bathrooms, toilets, and laundries often lack natural ventilation. That’s where CMES comes in. This centralised exhaust solution uses a shared fan and duct system to continuously remove stale, moist air from wet areas in each unit—protecting indoor air quality, preventing mould growth, and reducing moisture damage.

 

High-Performance Ventilation Solutions for Multi-Residential Developments

At Coastal Flo, we deliver expertly designed and fully compliant Central Mechanical Exhaust Systems (CMES) and ductwork supply services for residential and mixed-use buildings across New South Wales. Whether it’s a new construction or retrofit project, our ventilation solutions are engineered to meet the highest standards in performance, efficiency, and compliance.

With an in-depth understanding of the National Construction Code (NCC) and AS 1668.2, we support builders, developers, and mechanical contractors in delivering safe, efficient, and cost-effective mechanical exhaust systems that support the health and comfort of residents while ensuring long-term durability.

What is a Central Mechanical Exhaust System (CMES)?

In multi-storey apartments and high-density residential developments, natural ventilation is often not possible in internal bathrooms, laundries, and toilets. These spaces, commonly referred to as “wet areas,” require a mechanical solution to remove excess humidity, odours, and airborne pollutants.

A Central Mechanical Exhaust System (CMES) provides this solution. Using a centralised fan system connected to a shared duct network, CMES systems:

  • Extract stale and humid air from multiple wet areas

  • Maintain continuous airflow across the building

  • Prevent moisture buildup that can lead to mould, mildew, and structural damage

  • Improve indoor air quality and resident comfort

  • Comply with NCC and Australian ventilation standards

CMES is now considered a best-practice solution for multi-residential projects and is commonly required to satisfy regulatory approvals.

Our CMES Services

Coastal Flo offers a complete range servicing and maintenance of CMES services

1. System Maintenance and Compliance

Our experienced ventilation consultants work with architects, building designers, and mechanical engineers to specify a CMES that is:

  • Compliant with NCC and AS 1668.2

  • Suited to your building’s configuration and occupancy type

  • Energy-efficient and cost-effective

  • Easy to maintain and scalable for future needs

We prepare detailed documentation to support DA and construction approvals, ensuring your project progresses smoothly and without delays due to compliance issues.

2. Ductwork Supply – Spiral & Rectangular Options

We manufacture and supply high-quality ductwork to support CMES installations. Our duct products are designed to deliver:

  • Efficient airflow with minimal resistance

  • High durability with corrosion-resistant finishes

  • Precise sizing for seamless on-site installation

We offer a full range of:

  • Spiral ducts (diameters from 80mm to 2500mm)

  • Rectangular ductwork for space-restricted installations

  • Z275 galvanised steel insulated with glass fibres for sound absorption

All ductwork is fabricated to Australian standards and comes with pre-fitted fittings and connectors as required.

3. Fittings, Components & Accessories

We stock and supply a full range of installation-ready fittings, including:

  • Bends, tees, reducers

  • Saddles and branch take-offs

  • Flexible connections and flanges

  • Fire-rated access doors and dampers

  • Mounting brackets and support systems

This allows for complete system integration, reducing procurement delays and ensuring everything needed is available from one trusted supplier.

4. System Commissioning and Handover Support

We can provide or coordinate:

  • Fan selection and performance verification

  • Airflow balancing

  • Pressure testing

  • Smoke control integration

  • Certification documentation

Our team is experienced in delivering systems that pass inspection on first review, with test results aligned to code requirements and ready for certifier handover.

The Benefits of Coastal Flo CMES Solutions

Code Compliance

We ensure all systems meet or exceed:

  • AS 1668.2 – The use of ventilation and air conditioning in buildings

  • NCC Section F (Health and Amenity)

  • Local council and fire authority requirements

High Air Quality

Our CMES designs maintain consistent air extraction from wet areas, helping reduce humidity, prevent odours, and limit airborne mould spores that can compromise indoor air quality.

Energy Efficiency

We integrate options such as:

  • Variable speed fan controls

  • Smart timers and BMS integration

  • Low-resistance duct configurations

This reduces energy consumption while maintaining performance.

Durability & Reliability

We use only premium-grade materials, ensuring your system delivers consistent performance over its service life, with minimal maintenance or risk of corrosion and air leakage.

Customised Solutions

Every building is different. We tailor every CMES layout and ductwork configuration to your architectural design, space constraints, and project budget.

Who We Work With

Our CMES and ductwork supply services are trusted by:

  • Mechanical contractors

  • HVAC installation companies

  • Developers and builders

  • Strata and facility managers

  • Design consultants and building engineers

Whether you’re planning a new development, upgrading an existing mechanical exhaust system, or need urgent supply for a time-sensitive project—Coastal Flo has the expertise and capacity to deliver.

Typical Applications

Our CMES systems are ideal for:

  • Residential apartment blocks

  • Mixed-use high-rise buildings

  • Retirement villages and lifestyle communities

  • Student housing

  • Hotels and serviced apartments

  • Affordable housing projects

Any multi-unit development with enclosed wet areas can benefit from a centralised mechanical exhaust approach.

 

Spiral Ductwork: The Preferred Choice for CMES

Spiral ductwork offers several advantages over traditional rectangular systems:

  • Superior airflow: The smooth, rounded interior reduces turbulence and pressure loss.

  • Space-saving: More compact design allows for better ceiling space utilisation.

  • Quieter performance: Spiral ducts generate less noise due to streamlined airflow.

  • Enhanced aesthetics: Suitable for exposed duct installations with a clean, industrial look.

  • Easier installation: Pre-fabricated lengths and fittings reduce on-site labour time.

At Coastal Flo, our spiral ducts are made from Z275 galvanised steel and insulated with glass fibre, offering excellent corrosion resistance and a service life of up to 25 years.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

DUCTWORK SUPPLY

CO MONITORING SYSTEMS

SMOKE EXTRACTION SYSTEMS

STAIRWELL PRESSURISATION