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The diagram below shows the heat loss from a family home - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2013
Question 1(a)
The diagram below shows the heat loss from a family home. (i) State, giving a reason, the two areas of this house that should be prioritised for insulation. (ii) N... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram below shows the heat loss from a family home - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2013
Step 1
State, giving a reason, the two areas of this house that should be prioritised for insulation.
Answer
The two areas that should be prioritised for insulation are the walls and the roof.
- Walls: They account for a significant percentage (around 35%) of heat loss. Insulating the walls can greatly help in retaining heat within the home.
- Roof: The attic and roof are another major area, with an estimated heat loss of about 25%. Prioritising insulation in this area can significantly reduce heating costs and improve energy efficiency.
Step 2
Name and describe the method of insulation you would recommend for attic / roof.
Answer
For the attic or roof, I recommend using fire blanket insulation. This method involves laying strips of insulating blankets made from materials such as glass fibre or mineral fibre between the rafters in the attic. This type of insulation effectively reduces heat loss and prevents cold air from entering, while also being fire-resistant.
Step 3
Name and describe the method of insulation you would recommend for walls.
Answer
For the walls, foam insulation is a suitable method. This involves the use of foam that is sprayed between the wall joists. The foam fills the gaps and creates a solid thermal barrier that significantly reduces heat loss. Depending on the structure, solid walls can also be retrofitted with a dry lining solution for improved insulation.
Step 4
State three advantages of having a well insulated home.
Answer
- Energy Efficiency: Well insulation reduces energy consumption, leading to lower heating bills.
- Comfort: It helps maintain a consistent temperature throughout the home, ensuring comfort during extreme weather conditions.
- Environmental Impact: Reducing energy consumption means a decrease in carbon emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Step 5
Describe two ways that thermostats are used to maximise the efficient use of energy in the home.
Answer
- Room Thermostats: These are installed on the wall to measure the temperature in a room. They help maintain an optimal temperature by adjusting the heating system accordingly, reducing waste when the desired temperature is reached.
- Programmable Thermostats: These can be set to adjust temperatures at different times of the day, ensuring that heating is not used unnecessarily when the house is empty, thus saving energy and costs.