The heating and cooling preferences can vary between family members. Even the temperature requirements of various rooms in a building are different. While your parents might prefer a slightly higher temperature, you might like to keep it a little cooler. Similarly, the basement is generally colder than other rooms.

And how do you tackle these challenges that an HVAC system just isn’t built for? With the HVAC zoning system. Here’s what it means, its advantages, and more.

What is an HVAC Zoning System?

The HVAC zoning system or zoned HVAC is a heating and cooling system designed to customize the temperature preferences of different rooms of a building and even different areas within a home. The ductwork of these systems features dampers for regulating and redirecting air to any targeted room or area.

With an HVAC zoning system, the home is divided into multiple zones or clusters, each with a different temperature preference.

What are the Benefits of HVAC Zoning Systems?

Here are some of the top benefits of HVAC zoning systems-

Energy Savings

As per the U.S. Department of Energy, air conditioning costs can be reduced by up to 30% with multi-zone heating and cooling. With HVAC zoning, heating and cooling are done per your requirements and preferences and only in areas where it is needed to prevent energy waste.

Greater Comfort

With HVAC zoning, you gain complete control over the heating and cooling of all the different areas within your home. You’re free to set the desired temperature for every zone. When the temperature is ideal, it leads to greater comfort for all the occupants.

Customized Ventilation

HVAC zoning also enables you to customize the ventilation needs of the occupants. For instance, rooms with someone with a respiratory issue can be zoned off to protect them against allergens. It is a simple and effective way to keep your family safe within the environment they prefer.

Is HVAC Zoning Right for You?

The HVAC zoning system offers valuable benefits. However, there are additional costs involved in setting it up. So, it’d help if you first understand whether or not you need the system.

To make things easier, here are a few scenarios in which you can consider an HVAC zoning system-

• Homes with multiple levels
• Separate common area and living room
• Designated area for pets
• Elderly occupants or someone with respiratory problem
• Uneven heating or cooling
• Larger indoor spaces that are rarely used
• Conflicts among members regarding ideal home temperature

If you cannot decide, you can get an HVAC audit done to better understand the zoning requirements of your home.

What is the Cost of Setting Up HVAC Zoning Systems?

The cost will depend on the number of zones and dampers needed in your home. Most homes are divided into 2-8 zones depending on the size of the home and your requirements. Every zone will have an individual thermostat, and the dampers need to be connected. You’ll also need one or maybe two zone panels.

So, a better alternative would be to consult with an HVAC contractor, like Beeson Mechanical Service, Inc., at (317) 535-9338. Then, based on the HVAC audit, the contractor can provide a more accurate estimate.