Cooling of Buildings

• What does the thermal energy photograph show?

  Heat loss from poorly and well-insulated buildings
• What is the first main factor affecting building cooling?

  Thermal conductivity of the walls
• What happens when the thermal conductivity of a material is high?

  Higher rate of energy transfer by conduction
• What are modern houses typically built with?

  External brick wall and internal Breeze block wall
• What is the purpose of packing the cavity between walls?

  To reduce thermal energy transfer
• How much can insulating material reduce thermal conductivity?

  By up to 10 times
• How do single glazed windows compare to double glazed windows?

  Single glazed have higher thermal conductivity
• What is the effect of loft insulation on thermal energy transfer?

  It reduces the rate of thermal energy transfer
• What is one way to reduce thermal energy transfer from a house?

  Use materials with low thermal conductivity
• How do thick walls affect thermal energy transfer?

  They reduce the rate of thermal energy transfer
• What are the main factors affecting the cooling of a building?

  • Thermal conductivity of walls
  • Insulation materials
  • Type of windows (single vs double glazed)
  • Thickness of walls
• What are the benefits of using insulating materials in buildings?

  • Reduces thermal energy loss
  • Lowers heating costs
  • Improves energy efficiency
• How does the construction of a building influence its thermal energy retention?

  • Materials with low thermal conductivity minimize heat loss
  • Thick walls further reduce energy transfer
  • Proper insulation enhances overall efficiency