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A water butt is used to collect rainwater from the pitched roof of a house, as shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 7 - 2015
Question 7
A water butt is used to collect rainwater from the pitched roof of a house, as shown. (a) Using notes and freehand sketches, show the pipework necessary to collect ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A water butt is used to collect rainwater from the pitched roof of a house, as shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 7 - 2015
Step 1
Using notes and freehand sketches, show the pipework necessary to collect the rainwater from the roof and to store it in the water butt.
Answer
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Gutter System:
- Rainwater is collected from the sloping roof and flows into the eaves gutter.
- The eaves gutter directs rainwater into a downpipe.
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Downpipe and Diverter:
- A diverter is connected to the downpipe that directs the rainwater into a connecting hose.
- The downpipe carries water to a hose that leads to the water butt.
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Water Butt Connection:
- Rainwater flows through the hose into the water butt.
- When the water butt is full, the diverter directs rainwater back into the downpipe, preventing overflow.
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Water Butt Setup:
- The water butt should be positioned on a stand to facilitate water flow.
- A tap is fitted close to the bottom of the water butt for easy access to the stored rainwater.
Step 2
Discuss two advantages of using a water butt to store rainwater.
Answer
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Environmental Benefits:
- Water butts are environmentally friendly as they reduce the amount of treated water used, contributing to water conservation efforts.
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Cost Efficiency:
- Using rainwater for tasks such as watering gardens and washing cars can help reduce water bills, particularly in areas where water meters are installed.
Step 3
Discuss two disadvantages of using a water butt to store rainwater.
Answer
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Storage Limitations:
- The amount of stored rainwater is limited to the size of the water butt, which can restrict usage, especially during dry periods.
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Contamination Risks:
- The water in the butt may be contaminated by dirt or other pollutants if the system is not properly maintained.
Step 4
Discuss two reasons why it is advisable to harvest rainwater.
Answer
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Water Supply Security:
- Rainwater harvesting can enhance water supply security, especially in areas reliant on rain, preventing dependence on a single water source.
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Independence from Groundwater:
- Harvesting rainwater reduces pressure on groundwater supplies, allowing communities to draw water from alternative sources, thus maintaining sustainable practices.