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A two-storey house with a slatted roof is shown in the sketch - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 7 - 2014
Question 7
A two-storey house with a slatted roof is shown in the sketch. It has been decided to collect and store the rainwater from the roof for reuse. (a) Using notes and f... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A two-storey house with a slatted roof is shown in the sketch - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 7 - 2014
Step 1
Using notes and freehand sketches, show how the rainwater could be collected from the roof and stored for reuse.
Answer
To collect and store rainwater from the roof, the following steps can be depicted in freehand sketches:
- Rainwater Collection: Rainwater falls from the sloped roof and flows into the gutter. The gutter channels the water down through a downpipe.
- Gutter to Storage Transition: The downpipe directs the flow into a storage tank. A filter can be installed at the top of the storage tank to prevent debris from entering.
- Storage Tank: The underground storage tank collects the rainwater. It should be designed to allow maintenance access.
- Water Reuse: The stored rainwater can be accessed through a tap, with a system in place (e.g., a pump) that can move water from the tank to various outlets in the house, such as when the main supply is off.
Additional considerations include:
- Regular cleaning of filters to ensure quality.
- A water butt can be considered for smaller collections.
Step 2
List two advantages of storing rainwater and suggest two suitable uses for the stored rainwater.
Answer
Advantages of storing rainwater:
- Reduces Water Bills: Utilizing collected rainwater decreases dependency on mains water supply, leading to lower water bills.
- Independent Supply: Rainwater harvesting provides an independent water source which is especially useful during droughts.
Suitable uses for the stored rainwater:
- Garden Irrigation: Used for watering gardens, lawns, and landscaping.
- Non-Potable Uses: Ideal for washing vehicles, flushing toilets, and other non-drinking applications.
Step 3
Discuss one advantage and one disadvantage of fitting a water meter to the mains water supply of a dwelling house.
Answer
Advantage of fitting a water meter:
- Water Conservation: Water meters motivate household members to use water more efficiently, thereby conserving this vital resource.
Disadvantage of fitting a water meter:
- Increased Costs: Depending on usage, households might face higher water bills compared to a flat-rate system, especially if water-saving measures are not implemented.