HVAC zoning systems are the perfect solution to help customers eliminate comfort inconsistencies throughout their homes. It’s also a great way for you to differentiate your business with an in-demand product. We recently sat down with Rob Ambrosetti, KGG’s training director and host of industry podcast REPTalk, to discuss the benefits of selling HVAC zoning systems. Without delay, here’s our Q&A session with him.

Q&A: Residential HVAC Zoning

Q: Why should HVAC contractors learn more about zoning systems?

A: Because zoning can be used as a solution for [their customers’] hot and cold room complaints. It will help differentiate them in their market and they can add money to their bottom lines.  

Q: Can you zone an existing system?

A: Absolutely. Zone dampers are added to existing duct runs to create zones and each damper will be controlled by its own thermostat. The dampers are offered in round and square models in various sizes to fit into existing ducts.

Q: Should contractors sell zoning systems on every job?

A: Yes! Just about every home has hot or cold rooms and this will make their customers happy by evening out those temperatures. This is great for customer satisfaction, building rapport, and generating referrals. They’ll also add margin dollars to their income. You should, at the very least, try selling HVAC zoning systems to every homeowner.

Q: What’s unique about Clean Comfort’s Zoning System?

A: The Clean Comfort zoning system is unique in that it does not require a bypass damper. This saves time and money on installation and makes the contractor more competitive. 

If you have an interest, you can learn everything about Clean Comfort’s available zoning system options in the video below.

Q: Any basic zoning guidelines a contractor should know?

A: As few as two zones are possible; think upstairs and downstairs or the sun side of the house versus the shady side. The master control panel has logic built in to take the thermostat inputs from each zone, and decide if heating or cooling is needed and which rooms get priority. There are bypass-less systems that use a static pressure sensor and modulating dampers to control air volume and there are traditional “economy” models that use two position dampers and a by-pass damper. There is a system for every budget.

Q: Should every home be zoned?

A: Almost every other system found in the home is zoned: electrical, lighting, plumbing–why not our HVAC systems?  Many homes should have had two [HVAC] systems installed from the beginning, one for upstairs and one for downstairs. But builders typically don’t offer a second system due to costs. This is an option to make the one HVAC system work like two and is less expensive than installing a second system. 

HVAC zoning is a winning solution. Altogether, selling HVAC zoning systems puts your HVAC business ahead of the competition. Therefore, make sure to offer zoning to your customers as more and more homeowners look for energy-efficient options and IAQ solutions.

This article features IAQ answers from Rob Ambrosetti. KGG consulting staff edited the interview and further elaborated on the topic for clarity.