Central AC: In the Zone(s)
The background: I’m installing a new Central AC system as part of my gut reno in my duplex apt. The layout is changing to be rather open, with a staircase in the center to connect the parlor and garden floors. The master BR is on the parlor, with a guest BR and the kitchen etc….
The background: I’m installing a new Central AC system as part of my gut reno in my duplex apt. The layout is changing to be rather open, with a staircase in the center to connect the parlor and garden floors. The master BR is on the parlor, with a guest BR and the kitchen etc. on the garden level. Since the MBR is on its own floor, I thought I’d want a 2 zone system, so I’m not cooling the garden level unless I am using the Guest Room.
The question: One AC guy suggested a one zone system b/c 2 zones won’t really reduce the energy; it just shuts down the zone by closing the vents. The same guy suggested that if I really wanted to reduce energy consumption, I would need to install 2 systems; one for each floor. While that part sounds nuts to me, the idea of 2 zones not really reducing energy usage does make sense, making me lean towards the cheaper solution of a 1 zone system and/or at least contemplate the idea of installing 2 systems…but who has two systems in their yard. (Pulling up to the roof doesn’t make sense…)
Thoughts? (and thanks!)
I went through the same thing, and chose a single zone with a rooftop unit. If the floors are open to eachother then two zones won’t work as well. I can recommend Palone Brothers highly. Call me at 347 623 5887 if you have other questions, I’m happy to share my experiences. -Doug
also, I’m very glad I have the units on the roof so that I don’t hear them in the summer when I’m in the backyard (and nicer to your neighbors)
A true multi-zone system has seperate condensors for each zone. I have three zones (one per floor), and so three units on the roof. They are split systems, so there are no ducts between the floors.. only thin freon cooper pipes to the roof.
Try Palone Bros for a 2nd opinion.