Can you add zones to an existing HVAC system? Yes! Arzel Zoning has been doing exactly that for more than 40 years. Our retrofit zoning options make it as seamless as possible. Here’s how it works.
Let’s start with why a home or business owner would want more than one zone in their HVAC system. There are as many reasons as there are buildings, but they usually fit into these categories:
Different parts of a building have different thermal loads. We all know the second floor is usually hotter than the first floor. A large room with big windows will require much more conditioning than a small space with no windows. The orientation of the building is also important. All of this adds up to an uncomfortable home or business when there’s just one temperature zone. Adding multiple zones allows you to direct the right amount of conditioning to the right place.
Most people use their bedrooms at night and their kitchen/living room during the day. So why heat and cool those spaces when we’re not using them? Adding zones means occupants can avoid wasting energy on spaces when they aren’t being used. This is especially effective when homeowners have unused bedrooms, or when businesses have infrequently used conference rooms. Think about restaurants and pharmacies, too. These building types have notorious comfort issues that can be solved by adding zones to the existing HVAC system.
Finally, individuals just prefer different temperatures. When there’s just one thermostat, there’s no way for everyone to get the comfort they want. Adding zones helps to alleviate the tension because areas can be kept at different temperatures.
Absolutely! Adding zones to an existing HVAC system is entirely possible with the right parts. Arzel Zoning has been specializing in this area of HVAC for more than 40 years, and we have solutions for a wealth of applications.
Our dampers are designed to be installed in existing ductwork. To install our flagship EzySlide damper, just cut a small hole in the duct, insert the damper, turn, and fasten with screws. The whole process takes about 2 minutes. And there’s no ductwork modification required. See how it works in our video demos: How to Install the EzySlide Round Damper and How to Install the EzySlide Rectangular Damper.
When ductwork is hidden behind drywall, we recommend using one of our insertable dampers. There are 3 options that work with hidden or partially hidden ductwork. The EzyFit damper folds like a taco so you can install it through the register boot. InsertaDamper has a spring-loaded band that holds it in place in any round duct. Finally, the RegiDamper is installed directly under the register grill. Learn more in our video: How to install insertable HVAC zone dampers.
One of the significant benefits of using Arzel Zoning systems is the non-proprietary zone controls. These controls are compatible with any type of HVAC equipment, ranging from single-stage conventional systems to multi-stage dual fuel systems. This compatibility means you won’t need to overhaul your entire HVAC system to implement zoning. For more information on choosing which one you need, see our blog post on choosing a zone control.
When it comes to thermostats, you’re not limited to one type. Our zoning systems are compatible with any standard 24VAC, non-communicating thermostat. If your client wants a fancy WiFi thermostat with all the bells and whistles, that’s fine. If they want to save some cash and go with simpler thermostats, that works just fine too.
With the HeatPumPro, you can even use a standard heat/cool thermostat with a heat pump! (Just make sure you’re using a heat pump thermostat if you want to control a heat pump with the MPS or AirBoss.)
Ready to start adding zones? Start with our 5 rules of zoning. These simple rules will help you design an HVAC zoning system that works for your clients.
If you have questions about adding zones to an existing HVAC system, Arzel Zoning is here to help. Our team can answer questions about a zoning application. We can also recommend a control panel or damper model that will work best for your situation. Give us a call at 1-800-611-8312, or email techsupport@arzelzoning.com. We also have training videos that detail how to design and install a zoning system. Finally, we offer demo videos that show you exactly how to install and troubleshoot Arzel Zoning systems.
We’ve been in the business of adding zones to existing HVAC systems for over 40 years. Take advantage of our expertise today!
So you’re ready to install zoning in your customer’s home or business. Congratulations! Let’s make the next part as easy as possible, with this advice on getting your HVAC zoning system kit. Components of a zoning system kit There are just five parts you’ll need to install an Arzel Zoning system. A zoning panel Zoning […]
Can you add zones to an existing HVAC system? Yes! Arzel Zoning has been doing exactly that for more than 40 years. Our retrofit zoning options make it as seamless as possible. Here’s how it works. Why would clients want more than one zone? Let’s start with why a home or business owner would want […]
Wondering how to install an Arzel Zoning system? We’re proud to say that our installation process is easy! HVAC professionals will be pleasantly surprised to find that they already have most of the skills they need to install an Arzel Zoning system. Here’s what you need to know. How to Mount the Control Panel The […]
We’re proud to offer an HVAC zone controller for nearly every application. To choose the right one, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. This post is a guide to those factors. It will help you choose a zone controller wisely so your customers get exactly what they want out of their […]
