The Digestive System Living things: Human life 174

Building Energy Ratings

Many homes in Ireland have a Building Energy Rating (BER). This is a measure of how energy efficient it is. The BER is calculated on a scale of A++ to G. A-rated homes are the most energy efficient, meaning that it takes less energy to heat them. If a house is well insulated, it requires less energy to heat it. In a poorly insulated house, up to half the heat can escape through the floors, walls, windows and roof. Let’s look at an example of an A-rated house.

Double- or triple-glazed windows have airfilled gaps between the panes of glass. This works to keep the heat inside the house. The window frames are airtight, with no draughts. Curtains also help to prevent heat from escaping the house.

Solar panels on the house generate electricity. Remember: warm air rises. Insulation in the attic traps pockets of warm air, reducing the amount of heat that escapes through the roof. Materials used for insulation in the attic include fibreglass and a hard foam-like material called polystyrene.

The front door and back door are airtight, with no draughts.

Carpets prevent heat from escaping through the floor.

The central heating is digitally controlled. Radiators can be turned off in rooms that are not in use. The floors and walls are insulated. Sustainable insulation can be made from materials such as wool, recycled textiles, wood fibres or straw. The boiler is efficient and serviced regularly.