Efficiency is a key aspect of using your home’s HVAC system. You want to make sure the smallest amount of energy is used to maintain comfortable temperatures. But the layout of your home and the preferences of other family members can vary. Taking all this into account can make using your HVAC system effectively a little more complicated. Fortunately, there’s an easy fix.
An HVAC zoning system is a unique accessory made to help you fine-tune your heating and cooling. It can help satisfy the different needs of your family as well as lingering hot or cold spots. But make sure you trust installation to a local professional like Ambient Air. Trained, certified technicians will ensure your HVAC zoning system performs its best from the beginning.
What Is a Zoning System? How Does It Work?
A zoning system is a collection of dampers installed in your home’s ductwork. When your HVAC system starts running, the zoning system adjusts airflow based on the established “zones” in your home. So if grandma enjoys a warm den for her afternoon tea, a zoning system can provide exactly that. A residential HVAC zoning system is useful for families with various comfort preferences as well as homes with design quirks. When used efficiently, it can make sure each room or space in your home is just the right temperature.
Getting the Most Benefits from Zoned HVAC Systems
There are lots of reasons an HVAC zoning system can help increase efficiency. They can address problems that arise from a wide range of home styles and specific features, such as:
Multi-story homes: homes with two or even three floors require more energy and ductwork for efficient heating and cooling. But even then, rooms furthest away from the HVAC system might not be the right temperature. A zoning system can deliver an extra boost of airflow to take care of the issue.
Rooms next to unfinished spaces: many areas like the garage, basement or attic aren’t completely finished. They might be much warmer or cooler than the rest of your home. Sometimes this impacts adjacent rooms, making them harder to keep comfortable. Zoning systems can be a more affordable way to handle things.
Tall ceilings and large windows: expansive rooms with sweeping views are welcome additions to any home, but they need a little more energy for heating and cooling. A zoning system can redirect extra energy to these spaces when you use them most, ensuring you’re not raising your energy bill to heat or cool empty rooms.
Large additions or renovations: big renovation projects may not take the home’s original design into account. This can affect how hard your HVAC system needs to work to provide an even distribution of comfort. But with a residential zoning system, you can help stop your HVAC system from working too hard.
HVAC Zoning Vs. Two HVAC Systems
Rather than install an HVAC zoning system, some homeowners decide to get a second HVAC system. This may be useful for particularly large homes, but the higher energy and maintenance costs aren’t always worth the effort. Meanwhile, a zoning system can offer precise control over your heating and cooling. It can help manage comfort for the rooms you use most, when you use them.
Can an Existing HVAC System Be Zoned?
Yes, it can! It’s preferable if your HVAC system features a variable-speed blower motor. This means the fan has multiple speeds and can adjust for minimal energy use. A single-speed motor, however, always works at 100% capacity. Since a zoning system redirects airflow rather than increases or reduces it, you might need a bypass duct for excess air. An expert technician can help you decide the best way to proceed.
Try an HVAC Zoning System from Ambient Air
If you’re considering installing a residential HVAC zoning system, you can depend on Ambient Air for a high-quality, low-stress process. To request a quote for zoning system installation in Tucson, give us a call today at 520-357-4912.