For homeowners used to a traditional central heating and cooling system, installing a zoned HVAC system may seem a little intimidating. At Galmiche & Sons Heating & Cooling, we take pride in educating our customers so they can make smart decisions about their home investments, and we have put together this Zoned HVAC FAQ section for just that reason. Read on to learn more about zoned HVAC systems and if a zoned system can benefit your home. To learn more, contact our St. Louis heating & air conditioning experts today through our convenient online form!
What is a Zoned HVAC System?
A zoned HVAC system is a system that allows for consistent temperature control in specific parts of the house, regardless of external factors such as weather. Unlike a basic central heating and cooling system, zoned HVAC setups make it possible to have different temperatures in different rooms of the house at different times of the day. This allows for maximum comfort for individuals in the house and improved efficiency as you can choose to not heat or cool unused parts of the home. This is achieved through the use of various sensors, thermostats, and modulating dampeners installed throughout the house.
Do I Need a Zoned HVAC System?
You may benefit from a HVAC zoning if…
- You have a multi-level house
- Some of the levels in your home are partially or completely underground
- There are noticeable differences in temperatures from room to room during certain seasons or times of the day
- Some rooms in your home feel stuffy
- Members in your family consistently prefer different temperatures from each other
How Hard Is It to Have a Zoned HVAC System Installed?
Though a zoned HVAC system involves many more parts and more complex ductwork, the installation itself is relatively simple. A zoned HVAC system can be installed either as a retrofit of your existing central heating and cooling system or as part of a new HVAC system. The system gives you temperature control over individual heating and cooling areas (or “zones”) of your home, all running from the same heater/air conditioner. The HVAC system achieves this using dampeners to redirect airflow throughout the zones.
How Much Does a Zoned HVAC System Cost?
Like any HVAC work, because the installation cost of a zoned HVAC system depends on the size of your house and your current setup, your best bet is to get a quote directly from an experienced contractor. In general, you can expect it to cost more than a traditional central heating and cooling system, as there are more parts and more complicated ductwork. However, many people who have installed multi-zone systems have reported energy savings of up to 30% – so you should think of your upfront costs as more of an investment for your home.
One other note to keep in mind is that maintenance or repair costs could potentially be higher as well. In a multi-zone system, the additional parts make for additional points of potential failure. The more complex a system is, the more chances there are for it to break. However, with proper installation and maintenance, your overall savings should be greater than the expenses.
How Can I Learn More About Zoned HVAC Systems?
To learn more and to schedule a free consultation and quote, contact our heating & air conditioning experts in St. Louis today through our convenient online form. You can also reach us by phone at (314) 993-1110.
