Custom HVAC controls at home

[rockdogz]

I'm interested in installing a multiple zone control system for my HVAC at home. I'm currently looking at this company: http://www.resconsys.com/index.htm

and using their ZCV4 control unit with the TS40 wall display units, because ultimately I'd like to tie it into a computer controlled home automation system.

Does anyone have any experience with RCS or with doing this type of project?

Thanks!

[69Bbird]

I'm a HVAC contractor in CA. Have not used this system before but have done many zone installs. The main thing you need to do when installing a zone system is to put a barametric bypass damper in the system (supply to return). This will relief pressure in the system and keep your airflow correct across the unit. How many tons is your sytsem and how many zones do you want to install?

[rockdogz]

Yep, the diagrams of the system show a bypass damper as part of the install.

I have no idea how many tons the system in our house is... It's a 1700 sq ft 2 story house. Is it going overboard to set up one zone downstairs, and 3 zones upstairs (each bedroom)?
I haven't checked out the ducting in detail, but generally is there one large feed to the downstairs that I would have to damper, or several feeds that would need multiple dampers linked together to make one zone?
Thanks,

[69Bbird]

Most people do two zones for a two story. One up and one down. You could zone out all the rooms but it is an overkill. Where is your thermostat located now?

[muthstryker]

just re-wire your house and run cat-5 to where the fridge and other computers in the house are. that way youll beable to controll heating, ac, lights, music, security system, and any other things you can think of thru your fridge, computer and tv :)

[rockdogz]

Currently the thermostat is located downstairs. Each room upstairs seems to have a different temperature, which is why I was thinking about doing that many zones. Maybe I will try the 4 zone board, and only do the two zones - one upstairs and one down - for now, and then if we go to a bigger house I will be prepared with the right size controller...

The house was actually already pre-wired with CAT5, plus of course most everything works with wi-fi now or can be adapted.

I haven't seen any refrigerators that accept an Ethernet cable - are they around now?

[muthstryker]

i havent seen any out yet. but we had to pre wire for them.