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‘Higher fuel prices, lower incomes and poor energy efficiency will result in more and more people being unable to heat their homes.’ (Irish Independent 12th June 2008) (i) Homes can be heated by one or a combination of heating systems - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(b) - 2009
Question 1(b)
‘Higher fuel prices, lower incomes and poor energy efficiency will result in more and more people being unable to heat their homes.’ (Irish Independent 12th June 2... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:‘Higher fuel prices, lower incomes and poor energy efficiency will result in more and more people being unable to heat their homes.’ (Irish Independent 12th June 2008) (i) Homes can be heated by one or a combination of heating systems - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(b) - 2009
Step 1
Homes can be heated by one or a combination of heating systems. Identify two heating options available and comment on the merits of each.
Answer
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Full Central Heating:
- Merit: Provides uniform heating throughout the home, allowing for personal control of temperature in different rooms. It is efficient for larger homes and can be powered by gas, electricity, or renewable sources, providing flexibility in energy use.
-
Partial Central Heating (Local/Spot Heating):
- Merit: Useful for heating specific rooms rather than the entire home, which can save energy costs for families that primarily occupy certain spaces. Less initial installation cost compared to a full system and quicker to set up.
Step 2
Recommend one method of insulation suitable for each of the following areas of the home: attic.
Answer
- Attic Insulation:
- Method: Fibreglass insulation, which can be installed between the beams in the attic.
- Principle: Fibreglass materials are poor conductors of heat, which helps to prevent heat loss from the living areas below, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.
Step 3
Recommend one method of insulation suitable for each of the following areas of the home: windows.
Answer
- Window Insulation:
- Method: Double or triple glazing.
- Principle: The layers of glass act as insulators, reducing heat transfer. The space between the panes acts as a barrier to heat loss, while heavy curtain layers can protect against drafts.