Zone controlled heating and cooling refers to the heating/cooling of different parts of the indoor at a different temperature. Initially, with the introduction of the central cooling system, the only way to zone was to close the vents. But later on, it was found that closing vents actually leaves very bad impacts on the entire HVAC system. With time, new technologies were introduced and today, there are multiple solutions available in order to enjoy zoned heating/cooling in the indoor. In addition to providing with the temperature of choice for every homeowner, its most attractive feature is the energy saving that it offers.

How does zoning help in saving on energy bills? 

In the case of central heating/cooling, the conditioned air moves through the ductwork and reaches every room. Whether or not there's someone in the room or regardless of what temperature the person in the room wants, the system cools/warms the entire indoor at one specified temperature. This way, even when one room is being used, all the rest of the rooms consume energy and raise energy bill. As a zoned system is used, the supply to the unused rooms can be completely shut off by turning off the Thermostat setting of that room. Similarly, for family members who don't want very highly warm or highly cold temperature, the temperature can be reduced a few degrees which once again reduces the energy bills. Also, in multiple storey homes, there's usually a temperature difference when conventional Central Cooling/Heating is used. The zoning system covers this as well since it differently regulates different zones.

In the case of Split Air Conditioner system, the saving scheme is evident. Simply shut the systems off in unused rooms. While this may seem insignificant, you'll be surprised to see the difference that this makes. Every single degree matters and while zoning system is costly, it definitely offers with long-term saving on energy bills which suffices for the initial investment.

Different zoning options available 

Damper Zoning 

One of the most efficient zoning options is the Damper zoning option. Dampers are installed and are regulated with the help of Thermostats. So as the temperatures for different dampers are set differently, they open/close accordingly allowing only the amount of conditioned air that is necessary to cool/warm the room to the set temperature.

Split System 

Instead of installing an entire ductwork or renovate the ductwork with dampers, a number of homeowners prefer Split Systems. With Heat Pump technology supported, Split Air Conditioners can be used both for heating as well as for cooling. With separate units, different areas can be conditioned differently.

Smart Vents 

Smart vents are a new introduction in zoned controlled systems. Smart vents do what you do. The difference is just that they do it smartly (sort of). They are installed just where the vents are installed and work in collaboration with the WiFi Thermostat. Depending on the temperature requirement, they open/close accordingly. While they may seem an attractive option, they are not really recommended by HVAC professionals for the same reason closing of vents is not recommended.
So, have you ever tried zoning system? If yes, how beneficial did you find it?