Is A Zoned System Right For Me?

For new homeowners, there’s a lot that goes into AC installation. One of the most important aspects is deciding how the temperature will be controlled. With this situation comes two options: having one thermostat or a zoned AC system. Not sure which one is right for you? Don’t worry! Kendall County AC is here to help all new, or old, homeowners make the decision that’s right for them. To start, the professionals have given all information on zoned ACs that are necessary for helping homeowners decide which system to install.

What Is A Zoned AC System?

During the process of AC installation, you’ll eventually have to decide whether you want a zoned or central system.

You might be asking yourself, what is zoning? Answer: the process of breaking up your heating and cooling system, delivering different comfort levels to areas throughout the home. The result? The selected zones’ temperatures can be set independently of each other.

Using dampers installed in the ducts or at the air vent, zoned AC systems deliver airflow throughout homes. Opening and closing mechanically as needed, multiple dampers have to move simultaneously if one part of the home connects to multiple ducts or air registers.

The layout for installing a zoned air conditioner is rather complex. For this reason, it’s important to have an HVAC system professional that specializes in zoning for the installation process. Trained HVAC technicians can properly evaluate the layout of your home and help you set up efficient zoning.

Benefits Of Zoning

It might be tempting to go with the basics when it comes to anything, especially AC installation. However, there are many benefits of zoned AC systems that should be taken into consideration before you make your final decision.

One of the best benefits of zoning is improved energy efficiency. Diverting air away from where it isn’t needed, zoned systems assure you use less energy to keep your home comfortable, meaning lower energy bills. Remember the dampers? As they provide a better seal, zoning is more efficient than closing air vents.

Tired of battling over control of your thermostat with other household members? Make peace with a zoned system! With a thermostat in each pre-chosen zone, individuals will be able to adjust the temperatures independently for each part of their home. Even if some members’ temperature preferences are polar opposites, you can maintain hot temperatures in one zone and cold ones in another!

But wait, how does this work? Well, that comes down to the final benefit of zoning: even temperatures. Zoned AC systems compensate for hot and cold spots in homes by assigning the heating and cooling needs by zone. This means that naturally colder areas will get extra heat without pumping excess heat into warm spots as well. This makes zoning a temperature and a money saver!

Type Of Homes And Zoning

As such a system is made for multiple rooms, zoned air conditioners work best in larger homes that have space to separate the chosen zones. As the architecture of some homes can naturally adjust to varying temperatures, some households might benefit from zoning more than others. If homeowners have one, or more, of the following, they will more than likely get the most out of zoning their HVAC system:

• Two-story homes
• Basements
• Attic living spaces
• Cathedral ceilings
• Living spaces over garages
• Sunrooms
• Several large windows
• Wide layouts with two or more wings

Ductless heating and cooling systems utilize several air handlers that are situated throughout homes to manage temperatures. As one outdoor unit can connect to multiple indoor units, each indoor unit can operate independently with its own thermostat. As such, consider going ductless if you’re considering zoning, the effect will be similar to that of a ducted zoned HVAC system.

Finished heating or cooling the room for the day? Just turn it off at the air handler that’s located in each zone of your home.

Zoning Or Central? The Decision Is Yours!

A zoned AC system is a great way for you and everyone you live with to be satisfied with the homes, or zones, temperature. Whether you think it’s right for you or you’re still on the fence, it’s important to know as much as you can. Contact the professionals at Kendall County AC today for more information and installation options. For a second opinion, ask a professional to determine if zoning is a good decision for your home or not.