How Do I Zone My HVAC System?

Updated Janaury 17, 2024

There is a good chance you have heard of the practice of HVAC zoning before, which involves optimizing your heating and cooling equipment to supply a specific amount of air to a given room based on that room’s needs. You may have also heard of zone HVAC systems, and how this type of heating and cooling equipment can increase energy efficiency, thereby making you more comfortable while reducing your energy costs.

But how exactly does one zone their HVAC system? At Golden Rule, we proudly offer HVAC zoning installation and repair for a range of heating and air conditioning systems. Read on to find out how we can convert your existing units to become part of a larger zoned system and remember that when it comes to home comfort equipment, you can always trust our skilled HVAC technicians at Golden Rule.

How to Convert Your Existing HVAC System into a Zoned System

Install a Zone Control Panel

As the name suggests, the zone control panel is the central mechanism that allows you to control the other components of your HVAC system. Essentially the brain of your HVAC devices, the zone control panel lets you communicate information between your thermostats, dampers, and heating and cooling units so that every part of your system functions in complete harmony. The panel will be mounted by your equipment, and with modern technology, is easy to access and use.

Upgrade Your Thermostats

Your thermostats tell you what the temperature is in different “zones” of your home. By hooking your existing thermostats up to the control panel, you will be able to determine the specific temperatures you want in virtually any room of your home (this may also be achieved through smart thermostat installation.)

Outfit Your Ducts with Zone Dampers

Ultimately, the most critical part of zoning your HVAC system is to outfit it with dampers to control the airflow in every zone of your house. These dampers will be put in your air ducts and then wired to the corresponding zone field on the control panel. The result is that the thermostat controls the temperature, while the panel controls the flow of air. Your dampers will automatically open and close based on your thermostat and panel settings, allowing you to achieve optimum airflow and comfort throughout your home. When your control panel, thermostat, and zone dampers are all installed and working together, it is then that you will have a fully functional zoned HVAC system.

For more information on HVAC zoning or to upgrade your heating and cooling equipment to a zoned system, call now at (515) 393-4526, or send us a message online.

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Mark Paup

Owner

Mark Paup has worked in the home services industry for over 27 years and is the owner and founder of Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical.