Because a zone control system interacts with so many different parts (thermostats, transformers, heating/cooling equipment, dampers & temperature sensor), a zoning system can be daunting to troubleshoot when there is a problem. However, we have realized that there are really just a few common issues are the cause most all of the issues. With a combined 20+ years of zoning questions and technical support calls, we have tried here to boil down to the top 5 reason 99% of zoning systems have a problem. These do not include a potential problem with the configuration of the Zone Control itself. The troubleshooting of the zone control configuration is covered well in most Installation Guides.
1. Equipment
Refrigerant charge, fan speed, wiring, power, etc.
Always verify that the equipment is working properly first!
2. Thermostats
a. Incompatible with zone panel
b. Defective thermostat
c. Wiring defect
3. Zone Dampers
a. Actuator failure
b. Mechanical failure
c. DUCT Sizing (not enough or too much CFM)
d. Wiring defect
4. Bypass/Relief
a. Actuator failure
b. Sensor (Static Pressure sensor defect)
c. Mechanical failure
d. Setup (Modulating calibration or weight arm setting)
e. Orientation of installation (SPC or barometric bypass)
f. Improper sizing (not enough CFM capacity)
g. Wiring defect
5. Power
a. Transformer fuse
b. Wiring defect
c. Primary circuit problem (shared/capacity, breaker)
d. Improperly sized transformer (not enough VA)
For help troubleshooting your system contact the experts at zoningsupply.com directly via email or phone.
