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10. (a) Using notes and freehand sketches discuss in detail the importance of any two of the following in the design of a passive solar house: • insulated building envelope • controlled air changes • optimum benefit from passive solar gain - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2009
Question 10
10. (a) Using notes and freehand sketches discuss in detail the importance of any two of the following in the design of a passive solar house: • insulated building ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:10. (a) Using notes and freehand sketches discuss in detail the importance of any two of the following in the design of a passive solar house: • insulated building envelope • controlled air changes • optimum benefit from passive solar gain - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2009
Step 1
Using notes and freehand sketches discuss in detail the importance of insulated building envelope
Answer
An insulated building envelope plays a crucial role in a passive solar house design. It helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature by reducing heat loss during colder months and minimizing unwanted heat gain during warmer months. This is important for achieving energy efficiency and comfort within the home. For instance, using materials like insulated panels or high-quality window glazing can significantly enhance thermal performance.
Sketching the building envelope would include layers such as exterior cladding, insulation, and vapor barriers, highlighting how they work together to trap heat in winter and keep it out in summer.
Step 2
Using notes and freehand sketches discuss in detail the importance of controlled air changes
Answer
Controlled air changes are essential for maintaining air quality and regulating the thermal comfort of a passive solar house. An effective ventilation strategy allows fresh air to enter the home while minimizing energy loss, which is vital for energy-efficient designs. This can be implemented through features like operable windows, heat recovery ventilation systems, or strategically placed vents.
The sketch should illustrate the placement of ventilation openings and flow paths, showing how air moves through interior spaces to enhance comfort while controlling humidity levels.
Step 3
Using notes and freehand sketches show the preferred orientation of the houses to maximise passive solar gain
Answer
The preferred orientation for houses to maximize passive solar gain is typically south-facing (in the Northern Hemisphere). This design allows for maximized sunlight exposure during winter while minimizing it during summer through careful placement of overhangs. By orienting the houses to receive adequate sunlight, homeowners can benefit from natural heating and lighting.
A sketch can visually represent the orientation relative to the sun’s path, highlighting shading devices and the overall design's relationship to seasonal sun angles.
Step 4
Justify your choice of orientation
Answer
Choosing a south-facing orientation is justified as it provides the most direct sunlight exposure during winter months, supporting heat gain when it is most needed. Additionally, this orientation allows for the installation of shading devices like overhangs, which can block high summer sun and prevent overheating, thus maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. This strategy not only augments energy efficiency but also reduces reliance on artificial heating and cooling.
Step 5
Using notes and freehand sketches show, for one of the houses, two design details that would help prevent overheating
Answer
To prevent overheating in a house with a fully glazed façade, design details such as external shading devices and carefully selected glazing can be implemented.
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External Shading Devices: These can include awnings or pergolas designed to block high summer sun while allowing lower winter sun to penetrate. This balance assists in reducing glare and heat during peak sun hours.
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Glazing Selection: Utilizing low-emissivity (Low-E) glass can help reflect unwanted heat while permitting natural light, which is essential for energy-efficient homes.
A sketch should illustrate these details, showing their placements on the façade and their functional benefits.