Home Heating (Junior Cert Home Economics): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Home Heating
Methods of Home Heating
- Individual Heaters:
- Storage heaters use off-peak electricity.
- Used for short periods (e.g., fan heaters, gas fires).
- Central Heating:
- Water heated by a boiler/stove circulates through radiators or underfloor systems.
- Provides hot water for household use.
Sustainable Home Heating
- Heat Pumps:
- Pull heat from air, ground, or water using minimal electricity.
- Used to heat radiators and underfloor systems.
- Pellet Boiler Stoves:
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Burn eco-friendly wood pellets for heating and hot water. Other Methods:
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Use thermostats to control temperatures in specific rooms.
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Keep windows/doors closed to retain heat.
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Install timers or smart heating systems to avoid waste.
Insulation
Good insulation reduces heat loss, making heating more efficient.
Types of Insulation:
Attic: Fibreglass or foam prevents heat escaping through the roof.
Walls: Cavity walls trap air, preventing heat loss.
Floors: Carpet underlays act as insulators.
Windows: Double/triple glazing traps air between glass panes.
Draughts: Heavy curtains or draught excluders block heat loss through gaps.
Building Energy Rating (BER)
- A BER system rates homes' energy efficiency (A = best, G = worst).
- A-rated homes are well-insulated and energy-efficient.
