If you have ever walked from one area of your home and noticed a temperature change, that is not unusual. Many things, including the number of windows, the direction it faces, the presence of heat-producing appliances and insulation, affect a room’s climate. A zoning system is a solution that can save energy and keep you more comfortable. Here’s how.
Creating Home Zones
When a zoning system is installed, the house is divided into zones according to their temperature requirements. For example, the upper floor will often be its own zone, because it is the warmest living area. Rooms on the lower floor might be further separated into zones according to other factors, such as heat that radiates from appliances or from numerous windows.
Each zone is allotted its own thermostat that can be set to the right temperature for the space. These thermostats are connected to the command center of the system, which will signal dampers in the ductwork, leading to the individual zones, to open or to close.
How This Offers Energy Savings
In single zone homes, the heated or conditioned air is distributed equally throughout the home, as dictated by the sole thermostat. This leads to some rooms receiving more heating or cooling than they require. With a zoning system in place, you'll have more control over the distribution.
If a zone in the home is not occupied for a large portion of the day, you can adjust that thermostat to match the reduced need for heat or air conditioning. The same goes for zones that are often too warm in summer, such as the kitchen or upstairs bedrooms. You can direct more cool air to these areas without chilling the rest of the house.
Since heated or cooled air is no longer sent where it is not needed, this cuts energy waste. More energy savings means you will save money each month on your heating or cooling bills. In addition, you will be more comfortable.
For more information about adding a zoning system, please contact us at Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in New Haven, Indiana and surrounding Fort Wayne area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about zoning systems and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 260-376-2961.
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