The Pros and Cons of a Zoned HVAC System

If you’ve been looking up options for a new HVAC system, you may have come across suggestions to have a zoned system, as opposed to a standard whole-home setup. In today’s post, the local HVAC contractors at Perfect Degree HVAC weigh the pros and cons of having a zoned HVAC system.

How Do Zoned HVAC Systems Work?

HVAC zoning involves dividing your home into multiple zones with its own thermostat, allowing individual temperature settings for each zone.  In comparison, a standard home system has a single thermostat, which means all parts of the house have more or less the same temperature setting.

Zoning is achieved by identifying zones in the house and setting up a thermostat in each. Instead of controlling the main HVAC system, each thermostat controls zoning dampers that open and close depending on the zone’s heating and cooling requirements. While zoning can also be achieved using multiple ductless mini-splits, a multi-zone system functions with a solitary outdoor unit.

The Pros and Cons of Zoned HVAC Systems

The main advantage of a zoned HVAC system is precision. It lets you supply cool or warm air to where it’s needed. Unoccupied rooms would have the dampers turned off or set at minimal output. Rooms that receive more solar heat can have more cooling without making the rest of the house feel too cold. Elderly family members who get easily chilled can set their thermostats to a few degrees higher without making the rest of the house feel warm. This precise usage of heating and cooling can consequently reduce energy use and lower the strain on the HVAC system.

Of course, there are a few things that you should consider before committing to getting a zoned system. The first is the cost. Depending on how your current HVAC system is set up, installation may require removing the existing ductwork, which can drive the replacement cost upwards. There’s also the matter of its upkeep — since it’s a more complex system, repairs and maintenance typically take more time.

Thinking about getting a zoned HVAC system for your home? Give Perfect Degree HVAC a call at (610) 579-1984, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.