If you need to replace your current heating and cooling system, you’re probably hearing a lot about zoned HVAC systems. Even if you simply want to upgrade, these systems offer some pretty attractive benefits, but that doesn’t mean they’re perfect for every home. Understanding a little bit more about how they work and their pros and cons will help you make the best decision when it comes to keeping your home comfortable.
What Is a Zoned HVAC System?
A zoned HVAC system works by dividing your home into different temperature zones. This allows you to independently control each area’s level of comfort. You’ll be able to set different temperature preferences for various rooms instead of having one thermostat governing the entire house. For example, you can sleep in a cooler bedroom while other members of the family can enjoy keeping their rooms warm and toasty.
There are two types of zoned HVAC systems available. Ducted systems rely on ductwork and dampers to direct the airflow to the different zones. This is ideal for larger homes or any house with existing ductwork. Ductless zoned HVAC systems, such as a mini-split, use small, individual air handlers in each zone. This type of system is perfect for any home without a central HVAC system or ductwork. They are also a great supplement to a home’s main heating and cooling system. They can target areas that lack ductwork, like a new addition or a garage.
How a Zoned HVAC System Works
A zoned HVAC system with ductwork functions by splitting up your home into specific zones, such as separate bedrooms, floors, or living areas. Each zone will have its own thermostat. It will also have a corresponding damper.
Each of these thermostats lets you set a specific temperature for its zone. They work independently of all other zones and thermostats. This is what allows you to keep the bedrooms cool while still keeping the main living areas warm.
These systems include a central control panel that receives input from all of the thermostats. The control panel uses the information it receives to determine which damper to open or close, which is how it directs the warm or cool air into each zone.
Since these HVAC systems only direct air to active zones, they help you save energy by eliminating the energy waste that comes with heating and cooling areas you aren’t using. It also improves your comfort by allowing each zone to maintain an ideal temperature. This eliminates having to compromise on comfort and reduces temperature fluctuations.
How a Mini-Split System Works
A mini-split offers similar results to zoned HVAC systems with ductwork, but they operate a little differently. They have two main components. There’s an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air handlers.
Mini-splits are easy to install. They only require a small hole for the conduit to pass through. The conduit includes all of the power and communication cables, a condensate drain line, and copper tubing. This conduit line connects the indoor air handlers with the outdoor unit.
Each zone in your home will have its own individual air handler, which includes an evaporator. The refrigerant circulates through the system, absorbing and releasing heat as it changes pressure and temperature. In heating mode, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air and transfers it to the air handler, which heats that space. During the summer season, it does the opposite. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the inside and transfers it to the outdoor unit, which cools your home.
Benefits of Zoned HVAC Systems
Many homeowners choose a zoned HVAC system because of the many benefits it has to offer.
Energy Savings
With a zoned HVAC system, you’re only heating and cooling areas that are in use. This prevents energy waste by not having to heat and cool space you don’t use. As a result, you’ll enjoy lower monthly utility bills. This is what makes these systems a cost-effective heating and cooling solution. Since these systems isolate the different zones, they can avoid working extra hard to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home, which further adds to the energy savings.
Customize Your Comfort
You can set each zone to a specific temperature. This allows the people occupying each zone to tailor their comfort level to their preference, independently from the other areas of the house. Furthermore, by limiting airflow in certain spaces, these systems reduce the circulation of allergens, dust, and other pollutants.
Additional Benefits
The use of a damper to regulate multi-zone HVAC systems with ductwork will minimize the noise to only areas with an open damper.
Since you’re reducing the strain on your HVAC system with zoned heating and cooling, these systems typically have a longer lifespan than traditional ones. In addition, they’re a valuable selling point when listing your home.
The Drawbacks of a Zoned HVAC System
While these are energy-efficient systems, there are some drawbacks you need to consider.
System Complexity and Maintenance
The additional components and controls make zoned HVAC systems more complex to maintain. Regular tune-ups are a must to ensure efficient operation. Systems with ducts will require routine duct cleaning to remove dirt, dust, and other debris. This improves your indoor air quality and the system’s efficiency. Damper inspections further ensure the functionality. They may need adjusting to allow for optimal temperature control. Furthermore, all of the thermostats need calibration for accuracy.
This is all on top of the usual maintenance an HVAC system needs. For example, professionals still need to inspect and clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, tighten any loose components, and lubricate moving parts.
Higher Upfront Costs
Since zoned HVAC systems feature more components, such as additional dampers and thermostats, they often have higher installation costs than traditional systems. With more parts, there’s more of a chance of something failing, too. This can result in more expensive and time-consuming repairs.
Uneven Air Distribution
If you install a system with an inferior design, some zones may experience inconsistent temperatures, which can hinder the system’s overall performance. This is why it’s so important to have a professional installation.
Keep in mind that zoned HVAC systems don’t typically include a backup option for heating and cooling. If the system fails, there’s no way to maintain your home’s comfort.
Work with the HVAC Pros for HVAC Zoning
If you’re in the market for a zoned heating and cooling system in St. Petersburg, FL, we provide top-notch HVAC services to meet all your comfort needs. With over 17 years of experience in the industry and an A+ rating from the BBB, our team is familiar with all types of HVAC systems. This includes mini-splits and heat pumps. Our professional installation includes products from the top name brands like Carrier and Trane. Once your new system is in place, we will continue to ensure your comfort with our routine maintenance services.
Call Air Zero today to learn more about installing zoned HVAC systems.
