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

April 05, 2022

Efficiency is an important aspect of using your home’s HVAC system. You want to make sure the smallest amount of energy is used to provide comfortable temperatures. But the layout of your home and the preferences of different family members can change what’s “comfortable”. Taking all this into consideration can make using your HVAC system efficiently a little more complex. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution.

An HVAC zoning system is a special 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 Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning. 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 prefers a warm den for her afternoon tea, a zoning system can provide exactly that. A residential HVAC zoning system is perfect for families with different comfort preferences as well as homes with design quirks. When used correctly, it can make sure every room or space in your home is just the right temperature.

Getting the Most Benefits from Zoned HVAC Systems

There are many reasons an HVAC zoning system could help improve efficiency. They can resolve 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 need more energy and ductwork for efficient heating and cooling. But even then, rooms furthest away from the HVAC system may not be the desired temperature. A zoning system can deliver an extra boost of airflow to take care of the issue.

Rooms close to unfinished spaces: some areas like the garage, basement or attic aren’t entirely finished. They may be much warmer or cooler than the rest of your home. Sometimes this affects 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 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 might not take the home’s original design into consideration. This could 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 prevent 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 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 level out comfort for the rooms you use most, when you use them.

Can an Existing HVAC System Be Zoned?

Yes, it can! It’s best if your HVAC system offers 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 runs 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 Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning

If you’re considering installing a residential HVAC zoning system, you can count on Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning for a high-quality, low-stress process. To request a quote for zoning system installation in Bishop, give us a call today at 760-784-9034.