If you’re on your way 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 likely a little worried about the kids being out on their own for the first time. One factor you might want to put on that list of things to think about: A freshly emptied nest changes the way you can use energy efficiently.
Once the children are all packed up and gone, one of the first things you’ll see is some of your energy costs will decrease. After all, there are fewer people using the resources in your home—from water and food to electricity.
But even though you’re using less energy, that doesn’t mean you can’t be more efficient with the energy you do consume. With some open spaces, you’re racking up expenses to heat and cool areas you’re not even using. Shutting the doors and vents in those rooms won’t resolve that—in fact, you’ll likely use more energy and put a strain on your HVAC choosing that option. Zoning is a possible solution.
What is Zoning?
A zoned heating and cooling system controls the air in your HVAC to target specific regions—or zones—in your home. They use dampers to push the air where it’s needed. In homes where temperature control is a struggle, zoning systems can be especially helpful. Rather than battle 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 helpful for empty nesters who want to save energy and expenses each month. With a zoning system, you can design different zones in your home and control them individually. When the kids are gone, you can set the temperature in their room to use less energy. When they come back to visit, you make a small adjustment and it’s like they never left.
Best of all, 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 Ponder Zoning?
Zoning systems are an ideal fit for empty nesters who want to save energy while keeping their space just as comfortable as before. They’re also a great choice for homes where:
- Temperature differs radically between different floors or areas of the home.
- Large windows are a part of regularly used rooms.
- High ceilings make it hard to control temperatures.
Will Zoning Work with My Existing HVAC?
Typically, zoning works best for homes that have a multi-stage variable capacity HVAC system. This ensures it can function at peak efficiency—so you can save energy and expenses. However, there are options for single-stage equipment that also let you reap the benefits of zoning.
And for situations 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 special. The team at Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning can help you determine whether zoning makes sense for you.
An empty nest is a big change—so it’s a great time to reexamine your heating and cooling system to see if it’s meeting your needs. At Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning, our goal is to make sure 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, give us a call at 204-272-8128 or book an appointment with us online.