Indoor Heating and Cooling Zones

A residence or commercial space can be divided into zones either by using multiple equipment units, or by a system of automatic dampers controlled by multiple thermostats.  The benefits are energy efficiency, a better balance of temperatures throughout the conditioned space, and the ability to heat or cool based on usage patterns.

Zones are typically defined by a combination of usage and exposure.  A typical zone system would provide separate control for living areas and bedrooms.  This might further break down between a master suite and children’s bedrooms or between a living room/dining room area and a family room/kitchen area.  Usage patterns often coincide with exposure criteria.  Zoning is often used to correct for balance problems between an upper and lower floor, a northern vs. southern exposure, or an eastern vs. western exposure.  Zoning is also useful in compensating for the different heating and cooling requirements of additions or rooms with high ceilings.

The user interface for a zone system can be as simple as a thermostat on the wall for each zone, or can be integrated into a home automation system.  The heart of any system is a logic panel that processes the signals from the thermostats, opens and closes dampers, and instructs the heating or cooling to come on.

Successful systems require careful sizing and design.  We have the expertise and experience to maximize your comfort.