The HVAC Zoning Guide for Empty Nesters

If you’re on the path to an empty nest, you’ve got a lot on your mind. You have more free time in your future you’ll need to fill. You’re possibly a little worried about the kids being out on their own for the first time. One item you might want to include on that list of things to consider: A freshly emptied nest changes the way you can use energy efficiently.

Once the kids are all packed up and on their way, one of the first things you’ll observe is some of your utility costs will decrease. After all, there are less people consuming the resources in your home—from water and food to electricity.

But even though you’re using a reduced amount of energy, that doesn’t mean you can’t be more efficient with the energy you do utilize. With some open areas, you’re paying to heat and cool rooms you’re not even using. Shutting the doors and vents in those rooms won’t fix that—in fact, you’ll possibly use more energy and put a strain on your HVAC choosing that option. Zoning can help.

What is Zoning?

A zoned heating and cooling system regulates the air in your HVAC to narrow in on specific spaces—or zones—in your home. They use dampers to push the air where it’s needed. In homes where temperature control is difficult, zoning systems can be especially helpful. Rather than fight with just one part of the home that is too hot or cold, zoning permits a custom temperature to be set in the area.

Zoning systems are also useful for empty nesters who want to save energy and costs each month. With a zoning system, you can design different zones in your home and manage them individually. When the kids are at their own place, you can set the temperature in their space to use less energy. When they come back to visit, you make a small tweak and it’s like they never left.

Perhaps the best benefit, you can save energy and expenses using a zoning system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you could experience a savings of up to 35 percent when you use zoning with a programmable thermostat.

When Should I Consider Zoning?

Zoning systems are an ideal fit for empty nesters who want to save energy while maintaining comfort levels. They’re also a great choice for homes where:

• Temperature differs dramatically between different floors or spaces in the home.
• Large windows are a part of frequently used rooms.
• High ceilings make it hard to maintain temperatures.

Will Zoning Work with My Existing HVAC?

Typically, zoning works best for residences that have a multi-stage variable capacity HVAC system. This ensures it can operate at peak efficiency—so you can save energy and expenses. However, there are options for single-stage equipment that also let you realize the benefits of zoning.

And for cases that need an even more flexible solution, there are mini split systems that can act as a separate HVAC for difficult to regulate rooms.

Every home’s heating and cooling set up is distinctive. The team at Winters Heating and Cooling can help you decide whether zoning makes sense for you.

An empty nest is a big change—so it’s a great time to reevaluate your heating and cooling system to see if it’s meeting your needs. At Winters Heating and Cooling, our goal is to confirm that you’re comfortable and your system is working as efficiently as possible. If you want to hear more on how a zoned system could help, contact us at 317-406-5382 or book an appointment with us online.