Zoned Air Conditioning and How it Works
Zoned air conditioning is a ducted air con system divided into zones. The areas or zones are controlled independently. The layout consists of a series of ducts in your roof. The air is channeled to the various zones in your home.
Zones are usually defined by the main living areas of the house. However, you can zone for every room or area.
When creating zones for ducted air conditioning system, ducts will be extended to each unique area. They must end in an outlet vent where air is released. To control the air flowing within the zone, electrical mechanical valves called dampers are used. The intensity of the airflow is controlled by how much the damper is open. When it’s fully open, the maximum amount of airflow is allowed into the zone. When closed, the zone does not receive air flow. Most zoned air con systems offer varying degrees of airflow for every zone. This gives you control over the system.
A zoned (ducted) air conditioning system has several important features and components:
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INDOOR UNIT – Usually installed in the roof cavity. It is the main unit that delivers cool or warm air . Made of a heat exchange coil, a fan, filters and a Remote Thermostat/Control.
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OUTDOOR UNIT – Installed outside and work with the indoor unit. Then, it pumps refrigerant between the two units. Additionally, it rejects the heat gathered from the indoor unit. It is made up of a compressor, heat exchange coil and fan.
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VENTS – Air is delivered to each zone through ceiling vents. There is a range of designs for your property.
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ZONES – Zones are areas where you control the climate. They can be adjusted individually.
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CONTROL UNITS – The AC system is controlled by a centrally located wall-mounted unit controller and zone controller. Some advanced systems have individual controls in each zone. This allows you to control the climate through your smartphone or tablet.
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SENSORS – Sensors measure the temperature of each zone. Then, regulate the temperature effectively.
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DAMPERS – Dampers control the amount of airflow into a zone. Also known as zone motors or volume control dampers.
ADVANTAGES OF ZONE AIR CONDITIONING
Energy efficiency
Firstly, zone are energy efficient especially for bigger properties. In addition you will see more efficient when compared to a split system with individual units.
Plus, zoned air conditioning gives you to control the airflow for different areas of the house because you can shut off for areas that aren’t being used. This will save electricity. Manufacturers offer settings allowing you to set timers for individual zones. You control the climate to your family’s schedule. You save even more money.
Discreet and quiet
Secondly, the main cooling unit for a ducted air conditioning system is tucked away in the roof. Making it discreet and quiet. In some cases it may be under the floor. You get a quiet and subtle experience when compared to split systems. Discreet climate control system create quiet environments. Ducted air conditioning is the way to go.
Improved health
Thirdly, did you know ducted air con can help improve health? Ducted air conditioning removes dust particles because it works to remove moisture from the air. Consequently, people with weak immune systems and asthma benefit. As do the elderly and children.
DISADVANTAGES OF ZONE AIR CON
More expensive to install
Zoned air con is more expensive to install when compared to a split system. But it covers a larger area. Thus, requiring a higher capacity cooling unit. Plus ducts and air vents to be fitted. Ducted systems may have an initial higher cost. However, higher efficiency means you save money over time.
Unsuitable for some buildings
The main cooling unit for a ducted system is placed in the roof or under the floor. Alternatively, if neither cavity is large enough an alternative air con system must be considered.
