from Lynn in Superior WI:
#651
If I only use the zone heating in the basement and leave the second floor thermostats turned all the way down, will I save energy? I'm working on the theory that heat rises and the basement will heat the main level before it escapes through the roof. It's a one story ranch with hot water zone heat and an unfinished basement. Thanks, Lynn in Superior
Energy savings will depend on the type of equipment used.
You can heat the whole house through the basement. Energy savings will depend on the type of equipment used to do the heating.
If the piece of equipment used to heat the basement is more efficient than the equipment used to heat the first floor, then you will save money. If the equipment used to heat the basement is less efficient or the same efficiency (or the same piece of equipment) as the first floor, then you really will not save.