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How We Fixed a Zone-Balancing Issue for a Knoxville Home

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A Chilly Home, Unbalanced Zones

A homeowner in Knoxville noticed that their furnace would kick on, run briefly, then shut off on its own. When too many vents upstairs were closed, the system would overheat and trigger its safety cutoff. Frustrated by cold spots and repeated cycling, they reached out to HEP for help.

Investigation and Solution

Our HEP technician started by inspecting the zone control panel and wiring to make sure everything matched manufacturer specifications. Clear, legible labels and inspection ports helped speed up the process.

New Honeywell zone control panel neatly installed

He then added a bypass duct damper to relieve excess pressure whenever one zone was closed.

Professional installation of a manual bypass damper on flexible ductwork

To fine-tune airflow further, manual dampers were installed at key branch points. This gives the homeowner simple, room-by-room control without fully sealing vents.

Manual airflow damper installed on ductwork for simple adjustments

A quick check of the gas valve confirmed it was in good condition and operating correctly, so no replacement was needed.

Clean gas control valve assembly after service

With these adjustments in place, the furnace ran steadily for over twenty minutes without shutting off, restoring even, reliable heat throughout the home.

Homeowner Tips from a HEP Technician

1. Keep Vents Open or Adjust Dampers—Not Both
If you need to reduce airflow to certain rooms, use adjustable dampers instead of closing vents completely. This prevents unnecessary safety shutdowns.

2. Maintain Clear Labels
Make sure model and serial number tags are clean and readable. This helps the technician identify your equipment quickly and get the right parts.

Clear and legible labels on HVAC panel simplify technician inspections

3. Schedule Annual Checks
A yearly inspection can catch minor imbalances before they become major problems, keeping your system efficient and your home comfortable.


Ready to optimize your heating zones?
Contact our Knoxville team of HEP technicians for expert balance and comfort solutions.

Published on January 5, 2026

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