Understanding Zoning
Maximize comfort and efficiency with smart climate control
What is Zoning?
Zoning is the ability to control multiple areas independently from a single heat source.
Manual operation could be as simple as turning a valve, but automated control takes it further. By setting temperatures and time schedules for each zone, the system manages climate via sensors, actuators, relays, and zone valves.
In-slab heating circuits all start and end at a central manifold (pictured left), enabling individual circuit zoning. Centrally locating manifolds reduces pipe runs to each room.
Each port on the manifold has a Flow (hot) and Return (cool) pipe. Actuators installed on the return valves automatically open and close circuits based on demand. Correct design ensures each room has its own circuit(s), allowing independent control.
Our automated system is designed for manifolds but can also control pumps and zone valves.
Why Zone?
Zoning makes perfect sense for personalized comfort and energy savings.
Bedrooms
Keep them cooler for better sleep.
Bathrooms
Keep them warmer and run them even in the "off" season.
Unused Rooms
Turn them off completely to save energy.
Solar Gain
Rooms facing the sun need less active heating.
Thermal Mass
Some rooms hold heat better than others; zoning adjusts for this.
Heat Pumps with Zoning
Heat pumps are ideally suited to zoning. Unlike gas boilers, which are often oversized, heat pumps are matched to the home's specific requirements.
Since heat pump costs increase with capacity, precise sizing is crucial. Standard installations often oversize units to heat the entire house at once. However, heat pumps are most efficient during the day when outside temperatures are warmer.
The Solar Advantage
With zoning, you can direct heat exactly where needed (e.g., bathrooms vs. bedrooms). Program the system to run during the day, using solar PV to offset running costs, while taking advantage of higher ambient temperatures for better efficiency.
Selecting Heat Pump Size
Zoning allows you to target heating perfectly, even at night.
In Australia (NSW Southern Highlands, Snowy Mountains, Canberra), we size heat pumps at 80W/m² (e.g., 20kW for a 250m² heated area). This is well below the industry standard but highly effective for well-built homes with insulated slabs.
For well-oriented and insulated homes in colder climates, heat pump sizing can be even lower—less than 50W/m².
