For most people, their home’s HVAC system heats and cools the entire home whenever it is running. Sure, one can close vents in unused rooms to redirect some of the flow, but there is a lot of energy being wasted heating and cooling them.
A different type of home heating and cooling system called Multi-Zone HVAC is a great alternative, saving user's money and reducing energy consumption.
Understanding a multi-zone system
Instead of a home comfort system heating and cooling the entire house every time it comes on, a multi-zone HVAC system lets user control the individual temperature of each room.
This enables the user to choose which rooms are comfortable all the time, while only heating or cooling seldomly used spaces when needed.
The ways multi-zone system works
A multi-zone HVAC system divides a home into different temperature areas, each controlled by its own thermostat
A multi-zone HVAC system divides a home into different temperature areas, each controlled by its own thermostat.
These systems can precisely control the temperature in as few as two zones and as many as six or seven! One can designate each floor a separate zone, or even individual rooms. An HVAC professional can help the user to determine how many zones one need.
Reasons to use a Multi-zone system
Ideal for ducted homes new or old, as well as those using mini-split systems for their heating and cooling needs, multi zone HVAC systems are a great idea for a variety of reasons. If a home has areas that are difficult to heat or cool, a multi-zone system can give those areas extra attention without overheating or overcooling the rest of the house.
They’re also a smart way to please members of household who prefer a cooler or warmer temperature, by creating separate temperature zones athome, each with a separate thermostat. For those who want to waste less energy and reduce energy bills, a multi-zone system will allow to focus on regulating the temperature of the most commonly used rooms, rather than heating and/or cooling the entire house.
The ways it saves energy
It has been said that a zoned system can save as much as 30% in heating and cooling bills
Installing a multi-zone system for homes means no need to pay for heat or cool rooms one is not using. Zoned systems offer precise temperature control, saving money year after year.
With the ability to set the temperature in unused rooms to warmer temperatures during the summer and cooler temperatures in the winter, system can work more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and related expenses. Energy efficiencies are gained in a zoned system by reducing the HVAC system’s output. It has been said that a zoned system can save as much as 30% in heating and cooling bills.
Needs for Multi-zone systems
One can use a multi-zone system in specific areas of a house, or use it to heat and/or cool the entire place. Perhaps one has renovated and have additional living space or an in-law suite without ductwork.
Maybe the house is too large for ones needs, and one rarely enter guestrooms. May be it is difficult to cool upper floors or heat that room over the garage. A multi-zone system can help in any of these situations, or in homes with multiple stories, finished attics or basements, extra wings, or in places with exceptionally high ceilings.
Single zone Vs. Multi zone
A single split system will reduce carbon footprint through low energy bills and less equipment being manufactured
Each type of system offers a variety of benefits. Single zone air systems are a simple solution and energy-efficient models are available. Because these systems require less equipment, one will enjoy fewer repairs and less maintenance.
A single split system will reduce carbon footprint through low energy bills and less equipment being manufactured. On the other hand, once a multi-zone system is installed, the operating costs are generally lower because fewer areas are being heated or cooled. One will enjoy complete control over the heating and cooling of home through remote central management, or an individual control panel in each room. For large homes that would otherwise use multiple single split systems, a multi-zone system requires fewer outdoor units.
Energy savings and comfort
Multi-zone systems will improve both home comfort and energy savings and can be installed in most homes.
In general, they are less expensive when installed in a new home under construction, but they can be integrated into an existing home by an HVAC professional without much trouble. If it’s time to replace one's HVAC system, it’s worth asking about a ductless multi-zone option.
