If you’re on the path to an empty nest, you’ve got plenty on your mind. You have more free time in your future you’ll want to figure out things to do. You’re possibly a little worried about the kids being out on their own for the first time. One item you might want to add to that list of things to think about: A recently emptied nest changes the way you can use energy efficiently.
Once your kids are all packed up and gone, one of the first things you’ll observe is some of your utility costs will decrease. After all, there aren’t as many people utilizing 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 use. With some open spaces, you’re paying to heat and cool areas 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 that way. Zoning might be just the ticket for you.
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 focus the air where it’s needed. In homes where temperature control is challenging, zoning systems can be especially helpful. Rather than fight with just one part of the home that is too hot or cold, zoning offers a custom temperature to be set in the area.
Zoning systems are also nice 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 regulate 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 adjustment and it’s like they never left.
Best of all, you can save energy and money using a zoning system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you could notice a savings of up to 35 percent when you use zoning with a programmable thermostat.
When Should I Think About Zoning?
Zoning systems are a perfect fit for empty nesters who want to save energy while maintaining comfort levels. They’re also a smart choice for homes where:
- Temperature differs noticeably between different floors or rooms in the home.
- Large windows are a part of commonly used rooms.
- High ceilings make it challenging to control temperatures.
Will Zoning Work with My Existing HVAC?
Typically, zoning works best for houses that have a multi-stage variable capacity HVAC system. This ensures it can run at peak efficiency—so you can save energy and expenses. However, there are solutions for single-stage equipment that also let you earn 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 areas.
Every home’s heating and cooling set up is distinctive. The professionals at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning can help you determine whether zoning makes sense for you.
An empty nest is a big change—so it’s a perfect time to reexamine your heating and cooling system to see if it’s meeting your needs. At Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning, our goal is to make sure you’re comfortable and your system is running as efficiently as possible. If you want to hear more on how a zoned system could help, give us a call at 402-509-5940 or arrange an appointment with us online.