HVAC Zoning Systems: What They Do and Why Your Home Needs One

April 05, 2022

Efficiency is a key aspect of using your home’s HVAC system. You want to be 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 consideration can make using your HVAC system effectively a bit more complicated. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution.

An HVAC zoning system is a special accessory designed to help you fine-tune your heating and cooling. It can help address the different needs of your family as well as lingering hot or cold spots. But make sure you trust installation to a local pro like Pepper AC & Htg Inc. Trained, certified technicians will ensure your HVAC zoning system offers its best from the start.

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 likes a warm den for her afternoon tea, a zoning system can provide exactly that. A residential HVAC zoning system is great for families with different comfort preferences as well as homes with design quirks. When used correctly, 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 could help bolster efficiency. They can address problems that arise from a wide range of home styles and specific features, such as:

Multi-story homes: homes with more than one story need more energy and ductwork for efficient heating and cooling. But even then, rooms farthest away from the HVAC system may not be the right temperature. A zoning system can deliver an extra boost of airflow to take care of the issue.

Rooms adjacent to unfinished spaces: some areas like the garage, basement or attic aren’t entirely finished. They can 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: grand rooms with sweeping views are gorgeous additions to any home, but they require a little more energy for heating and cooling. A zoning system can send 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 consideration. This could affect how hard your HVAC system will have to work to provide an even distribution of comfort. But with a residential zoning system, you can help keep your HVAC system from working too hard.

HVAC Zoning Vs. Two HVAC Systems

Rather than install an HVAC zoning system, some homeowners consider getting a second HVAC system. This could be useful for especially 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 even out 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 uses a variable-speed blower motor. This means the fan has multiple speeds and can adjust for efficient energy use. A single-speed motor, however, always blows 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 figure out the best way to proceed.

Try an HVAC Zoning System from Pepper AC & Htg Inc

If you’re considering installing a residential HVAC zoning system, you can rely on Pepper AC & Htg Inc for a high-quality, low-stress process. To request a quote for zoning system installation in Justin, give us a call today at 940-202-1184.