I'm trying to fix a problem in my house. There is only one thermostat and it is on the main floor but heat rises! So upstairs is really hot! In the basement it's really cold! What is the best way to fix this? I am renovating the basement so I would like to fix this before I cover the ducts up. I was thinking have 3 zones with 3 different thermostats. But how would I control air flow if the upstairs vent is connected to the main floors vent?

Thanks,

Eric

For 3 zones, you would need motorized or solenoid operated dampers for the ducts leading to each zone. The thermostats would need to be wired to both operate the dampers and start up the central air. You would need to add 2 more thermostats and run wires to the dampers and compressor. If you do go that route, I can work with you on the details of the wiring.

I would start be examining the existing ducts for manual operated dampers that may be biasing the air flow towards the basement and downstairs for heating purposes. How is the heat distribution in the heating season? As you say, heat rises, and you need more air flow to the lower areas in the heating season. Even closing vents to the basement might help. Insulating the ducts in the basement should help too, along with maybe enlarging the ducts to the upper floor. Look things over, and post back what you find. Most homes maintain acceptable comfort levels without the complication of multiple zones.

I'm trying to fix a problem in my house. There is only one thermostat and it is on the main floor but heat rises! So upstairs is really hot! In the basement it's really cold! What is the best way to fix this? I am renovating the basement so I would like to fix this before I cover the ducts up. I was thinking have 3 zones with 3 different thermostats. But how would I control air flow if the upstairs vent is connected to the main floors vent?

Thanks,

Eric
... air return located upstairs? This part of the HVAC system has much to do with the comfort level in a 2-story home as it governs the flow of the air from the fresh air ducts back to the blower intake. Is there a filter in the upstairs return and is it clean?