Do you find that some rooms in your Fletcher, North Carolina, home are always warmer or colder than others? If so, an HVAC zoning system could solve the issue. Zoning allows you to control the temperature of each room or zone individually. It’s perfect for multi-story homes where the temperature varies between the levels. Read more to learn how HVAC zoning works and why you should install it in your home.
Motorized Dampers
An HVAC system delivers hot or cool air into your home via the ducting. Traditionally, the ducting is open to the entire home and the air goes into all parts of the house at the same time. As a result, you can’t control whether you send more or less cool or warm air to one area.
With HVAC zoning, motorized dampers in the ductwork open and close to control where the air flows. When the thermostat in a room sends a signal to the damper that controls that zone, the damper will open or close based on what the thermostat tells it to do.
Multiple Thermostats
Instead of one main thermostat that controls the entire house, each room or zone has its own. The sensor on the thermostat only allows airflow to the area that the damper controls. The beauty of this system is that you can set the temperature individually, according to the desired level, without affecting the rest of the house. Zoned systems are also useful for seldom-used rooms, basements, in-home gyms and specialty rooms. Invest in smart thermostats to maximize the amount of control you have for each room.
Central Control Panel
One of the most crucial components of the HVAC zoning system is the central control panel. Think of this part as the “brain” that tells everything when to open and close. All of the thermostats connect to the central control panel. All of the sensors attached to the dampers in the ductwork also connect to the panel.
The thermostat in a zoned area will send a signal to the control panel. Then the panel sends a signal to the motorized dampers in the ducting. The information sent will signal the damper to either allow more airflow or less. This is a complex electronic process that requires regular maintenance and inspection to ensure that every part is correctly communicating with each other.
Balanced Airflow
In order for the HVAC zoning system to work efficiently, you need balanced airflow within the ductwork. When we install a zoned system, we’ll check for pressure differences and imbalances when the dampers open and close. It’s essential that each zone has a return air duct that can handle strong airflow going through the ducting.
Having the right-sized air handler is necessary, as well. A variable two-speed air handler can manage the airflow and pressure changes better than a single-speed system. When we install the HVAC zoning system, we’ll ensure you have an air handler to meet your comfort needs.
Don’t Forget About Maintenance
One thing is certain when you zone your home: All the components need to run flawlessly to deliver the correct temperature to each zone. The ducts need regular cleaning so that they can deliver clean air efficiently. They also shouldn’t have cracks or gaps that allow air to escape.
The HVAC system needs regular maintenance to ensure that it can perform efficiently to heat and cool your house. Investing in a maintenance plan will give you peace of mind knowing that a professional has serviced your entire system.
Do you want to discuss the benefits of a HVAC zoning or to schedule maintenance? Give Gentry Service Group a call today to at (828) 581-4045.
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