Summer is here and it’s time to make sure your home’s HVAC system is ready to beat the heat. One excellent option to consider is the Honeywell TrueZone system. In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at what TrueZone is, who it’s best suited for, how to install it, and some troubleshooting tips. We’ll also share reviews from real-world users to give you the full picture.
What is the Honeywell TrueZone System?
The Honeywell TrueZone system is a zoning control panel that allows you to precisely control temperatures in up to 8 different zones in your home. Zones could be different floors, individual rooms, or even different sides of the same room.
TrueZone uses motorized dampers in your ductwork to route conditioned air only where it’s needed. This prevents energy waste from overcooling empty spaces. It also lets you customize temperatures so every zone is perfectly comfortable – no more arguments over the thermostat!
Homeowners with large, multi-level houses tend to benefit the most from zoning. It allows you to set different temperatures on your main and upper floors, for example. Rooms that get a lot of sun exposure can also be zoned separately from shaded areas.
Who is TrueZone Good For?
Here are some home scenarios where TrueZone really shines:
- Two-story houses where the upstairs is always hotter or colder than ideal. TrueZone lets you adjust each floor independently.
- Homes with additions that were tacked on later. Old and new sections likely need different temperature settings.
- Any large home with rooms that get more sun exposure than others. You can cool the hot rooms without overdoing it in cooler zones.
- Homes with detached offices, in-law suites, or back houses. Zone these spaces separately for maximum efficiency.
- Drafty old houses with hot and cold spots. TrueZone balances out temperatures.
- Smart homes with remote temperature control. TrueZone integrations allow app-based zone control.
Basically, if your home’s current HVAC system leaves some rooms too hot and others too cold, TrueZone can help optimize comfort.
How to Install the TrueZone System
Here is a general overview of how to install a TrueZone panel in an existing home:
Step 1: Install Zone Control Panel
The main TrueZone control panel should be installed in a central, accessible location like a hallway utility closet. The panel requires a 120V power connection.
Step 2: Install Dampers
Motorized dampers are placed in the ductwork leading to each zone you want to control separately. The damper motors connect via low voltage wiring back to the TrueZone panel.
Step 3: Wire the Thermostats
Low voltage wiring runs from the TrueZone panel to the thermostat in each zone. Honeywell offers sleek digital thermostats designed specifically for their zoning systems.
Step 4: Configure the System
Use the TrueZone panel interface to configure zone names, desired temperatures, and HVAC modes for each area of the home.
Step 5: Perform Air Balancing
A professional HVAC technician should perform air balancing to make sure each zone is getting sufficient airflow when its damper opens.
The total install time varies based on the home layout but usually takes one to two days with a licensed HVAC company. Honeywell has a dealer locator on their website to find pros in your area familiar with TrueZone.
Tips for a Successful TrueZone Installation
Here are a few tips to make sure your TrueZone system operates flawlessly:
– Make sure your HVAC system can handle zoning. Most modern forced air systems have the airflow. Very old units may need upgrades.
– Plan your zone layout wisely. Group rooms with similar exposure and usage into common zones. Keep hallways and high-traffic areas separate.
– Use an HVAC load calculator to determine the number of dampers needed. Oversizing is better than undersizing zones.
– Install insulated, acoustically enhanced dampers to minimize noise when they open and close.
– Use dampers with pressure relief ports so zones get some minimal airflow even when “closed.”
– Have a certified technician perform the final air balancing to optimize comfort.
Following best practices during planning and installation is key to maximizing the performance benefits of the TrueZone system.
Troubleshooting Your TrueZone System
Like any complex home technology, you may occasionally run into issues with TrueZone. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Zones feel imbalanced – If some zones are too hot or cold compared to others, the system likely needs rebalanced. Call an HVAC technician to adjust airflow and damper settings.
- Noise when dampers operate – Old or low-quality dampers can make clicking/banging sounds. Replace problem dampers with whisper-quiet, insulated models.
- Thermostat conflicts – If zone temperatures seem to fight each other, the thermostat programming may conflict. Carefully check each thermostat setup.
- Limited airflow – Too many vents closed or dirty filters can limit airflow to certain zones. Open vents and change filters to restore proper airflow.
- Control panel issues – Problems with zone control panels are rare but can happen. Most panels have self-diagnostic indicators to troubleshoot issues. Or call Honeywell support.
- Dampers failing to open – Failed damper motors or wiring problems can prevent damper operation. Have an HVAC technician test components and connections.
With some attention and maintenance, a TrueZone system should provide many years of energy-efficient comfort. Honeywell’s 5-year warranty also provides repair or replacement coverage for defective parts.
Real Homeowner Reviews of Honeywell TrueZone
To give a balanced perspective, here are some real homeowner reviews from around the web on their experiences with TrueZone zoning:
Positive TrueZone Reviews
“We had a Honeywell TrueZone system installed last year and it was the best home improvement project we’ve ever done! The house feels so much more comfortable with even temperatures throughout. The zoning has also made our old HVAC system way more efficient. I’d recommend TrueZone to any homeowner whose house has hot/cold spots.”
“I was skeptical that zoning would make that big of a difference, but after having TrueZone in place for a summer now, I’m blown away. Not only is it great having perfect temperatures everywhere, but our energy bills dropped noticeably too. The system was so worth the investment.”
“The Honeywell zone control panel was super easy for our HVAC company to install and set up. I love having the individual control of temperatures from my smart home app. With a touch of a button, I can cool down any room that needs it without affecting the rest of the house.”
Negative TrueZone Reviews
“We had nothing but problems with our Honeywell TrueZone system right from the start. The dampers were very loud whenever they operated. Ultimately 2 of the 8 dampers failed within the first year. Our HVAC company didn’t install it correctly. I can’t recommend the system.”
“Maybe we built up unrealistic expectations, but our TrueZone system hasn’t lived up to its promise. Most of the house still feels about the same temperature-wise. The zones aren’t as customizable as we thought. I’d say it was an expensive lesson.”
“I like the concept of zoning but wish Honeywell offered touchscreen controls. The old-school push button panel looks totally outdated. And good luck trying to adjust the zone temperatures without constantly referring back to the manual.”
Is Honeywell TrueZone Right for You?
If your home suffers from hot and cold spots that are driving up energy bills, a zoning system like Honeywell TrueZone can help optimize comfort and efficiency. For larger, multi-level houses, the benefits are especially pronounced. Customizable climate control for various rooms is also a major perk.
Just be sure to have TrueZone installed by a reputable HVAC company who will take the time to carefully plan the zones and perform proper airflow balancing. And remember to stay on top of maintenance like changing filters to keep the system working its best. With the right installation and some periodic upkeep, a TrueZone system can be a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
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