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The drawing shows a single storey house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2016
Question 6
The drawing shows a single storey house. The external walls are of insulated timber frame construction and are finished externally with rendered cement board and ced... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The drawing shows a single storey house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2016
Step 1
Discuss in detail, using notes and freehand sketches, three features of the design that contribute to the house having low environmental impact.
Answer
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Sustainable Materials: The use of insulated timber frame construction reduces the visual impact of the building and contributes to sustainability by utilizing renewable resources. Timber is a natural material that sequesters carbon, reducing the overall carbon footprint.
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Orientation and Design: The design incorporates optimal natural lighting and ventilation strategies. For instance, large areas of glazing on south-facing walls promote passive solar heating, minimizing the need for artificial heating.
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Energy Efficient Layout: The spatial organization of the house significantly influences energy efficiency. The design promotes natural circulation of air, allowing for less reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems, thus contributing to overall energy conservation.
Step 2
To meet the Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) requirements, the production of on-site renewable energy is recommended. Using notes and freehand sketches show one means of generating on-site renewable energy for the dwelling house.
Answer
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Photovoltaic Solar Panels: Installing photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of the house allows for the conversion of sunlight into electricity. This system can be designed to supply power to the household, reducing reliance on grid electricity. Each panel can produce a certain wattage, ensuring that the household needs are met while also reducing energy costs.
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Wind Turbine: A small-scale wind turbine can be installed on the property to harness wind energy. This can complement the solar power system, especially during periods when sunlight is scarce, ensuring a more consistent energy supply.
Step 3
Discuss in detail two advantages of generating renewable energy on-site.
Answer
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Environmental Sustainability: Generating energy on-site significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the household. By utilizing renewable sources such as solar and wind, the reliance on fossil fuels is minimized, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions and promoting ecological health.
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Energy Independence: On-site energy generation allows households to become less dependent on external energy suppliers. This not only enhances energy security but also shields homeowners from unstable energy prices, making their energy costs more predictable and manageable.