Energy costs for your home can be frustrating, especially during the Longview TX summer. Home heating and cooling account for approximately half of your energy expenses, and there are many strategies for improving energy efficiency to cut these costs. Some tips are practical. Recharging refrigerant, changing air filters and being careful to shut doors and windows are important steps. If these don’t make enough of a difference, though, you may want to think about zoned heating and air.
What Are Zones?
The concept of establishing zones is pretty simple. Dividing your home into sections allows your heating and air conditioning to be directed according to need. If you have a larger home or multiple stories, then you realize that some spaces can be tough to moderate consistently. Your upper levels may stay pretty comfortable on a winter day, rendering upstairs heating unnecessary. The same warmth creates a need for extra cooling upstairs during the summer.
Heat exchange through the roof and windows can be responsible for temperature discrepancies in parts of the structure. Zoned heating and air allows you to concentrate temperature moderation on those areas that aren’t comfortable without adversely affecting areas with desirable temperatures.
Installation of Zones
Your zoning equipment will include dampers and controls that will be used to direct the airflow as areas are on or off. A common control panel is used to direct individual thermostats and damper controls. Additional air conditioning and heating units aren’t required, but it is important to work with a knowledgeable company like JD’s A/C LLC to be sure that your zoning network is designed in accordance with your system’s specifications. Poor installation of dampers can nullify any energy savings that you might have expected to achieve. This is definitely not a DIY project.
It’s also important to consult with a professional so that you don’t have too many or too few zones. HVAC contractors are trained to diagnose the needs of specific spaces and systems, and a professional will let you know if your home is suitable for zoned heating and air.
Alternative Zoning Options
Another approach to independent heating and cooling of rooms and spaces in your home is the use of ductless equipment. Zones are created by the installation of independent room units that work with a common heat pump, connected by refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. Homes that may not benefit from duct zoning might be better served through ductless equipment. Ducts can account for a 30 percent energy loss when your heating and cooling equipment are running. Ductless equipment provides an energy-efficient alternative. If you would like to meet with an expert to learn more about either of these zoning options, please contact us at
JD’s A/C LLC.
