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A wood-burning stove combined with a solar collector is to provide central heating and hot water for a three-bedroom, two-storey dwelling house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 8 - 2015
Question 8
A wood-burning stove combined with a solar collector is to provide central heating and hot water for a three-bedroom, two-storey dwelling house. (a) Using notes and... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A wood-burning stove combined with a solar collector is to provide central heating and hot water for a three-bedroom, two-storey dwelling house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 8 - 2015
Step 1
Using notes and a single-line diagram, show a typical design layout for both the heating system and the hot water system.
Answer
To create a typical design layout for the heating and hot water system:
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Heating System Diagram:
- Draw a single-line diagram with two separate zones for the heating system, one for each floor of the dwelling.
- Include three radiators on each floor with control valves installed on the return of each radiator.
- Label independent thermostatic controls for each radiator.
- Additionally, include the solar collector and water cylinder in this diagram.
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Key Components:
- Control valves should be clearly indicated at each radiator to allow for independent control.
- Include an electronic heating control panel that coordinates the heating zones.
- Typical pipework sizes include:
- 22mm for flow and return
- 15mm for upstands
- 28mm for expansion piping.
-
Hot Water System:
- Illustrate the hot water cylinder, typically a 300-litre capacity twin-coil cylinder, integrated with the solar collector setup.
- Indicate the location of the expansion vessel and temperature sensors in your layout.
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Finalizing the Diagram:
- Ensure all components are clearly labeled, and the flow of water through the system is indicated.
Step 2
Using notes and freehand sketches show a preferred location for a solar collector that will ensure its maximum efficiency.
Answer
To determine the preferred location for the solar collector:
- Orientation:
- Position the solar collector ideally facing south for maximum solar gain. The recommended tolerance is ±15° from true south to optimize efficiency.
- Installation Considerations:
- Avoid placing the collector in shaded areas, such as behind trees or chimneys, to ensure it receives substantial sunlight exposure.
- Reinforce the mounting on southern walls, taking care to consider the weight and installation angles required for solar collectors.
- Optimal Angle:
- The performance of the collector is maximized when inclined at an angle of approximately 45°, allowing for effective absorption of solar radiation.
Step 3
Discuss two considerations that should be taken into account at the design stage of the house when selecting a location for both the chimney and the hot press.
Answer
When planning the design of the house with regards to the chimney and hot press locations:
- Chimney Location:
- Ideally, the chimney should be situated on an internal wall to prevent heat loss. This placement minimizes the exposed surfaces of the chimney, enhancing its efficiency.
- Compact design is essential; it's beneficial to position the chimney close to bathrooms and the hot press to facilitate the integration of pipework and reduce installation complexity.
- Hot Press Location:
- The hot press should accommodate the hot water cylinder and associated valves and pipework as close to the boiler as possible to minimize heat loss and ensure efficient operation.
- Short pipe runs are preferable as they require less water to heat, thereby increasing the system's efficiency. It also simplifies future maintenance and potential renovations.