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 need to fill. You’re likely a little worried about the kids being out on their own for the first time. One thing 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 on their way, one of the first things you’ll see is some of your bills 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 consume. With some open spaces, you’re paying to heat and cool spaces 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 might be just the ticket for you.
What is Zoning?
A zoned heating and cooling system manages the air in your HVAC to focus on specific regions—or zones—in your home. They use dampers to focus the air where it’s needed. In homes where temperature control is difficult, zoning systems can be particularly helpful. Rather than fight with just one part of the home that is too hot or cold, zoning allows a custom temperature to be set in the area.
Zoning systems are also helpful for empty nesters who want to save energy and money 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 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 keeping their space just as comfortable as before. They’re also a great choice for homes where:
- Temperature differs dramatically between different floors or areas of the home.
- Large windows are a part of regularly used rooms.
- High ceilings make it hard to maintain temperatures.
Will Zoning Work with My Existing HVAC?
Usually, 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 costs. However, there are options for single-stage equipment that also let you realize 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 distinctive. The team at Titan Heating & Air Conditioning can help you decide whether zoning makes sense for you.
An empty nest is a big change—so it’s an ideal time to reassess your heating and cooling system to see if it’s meeting your needs. At Titan Heating & Air Conditioning, our goal is to ensure 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 541-286-6617 or book an appointment with us online.