Yes, it is possible to have two or more thermostats controlling a single central air conditioning unit or HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. This setup is known as a multi-zone HVAC system or a zoned system.
In a zoned system, the house or building is divided into different zones or areas, each with its own thermostat. Each thermostat is responsible for controlling the heating or cooling in its respective zone. This allows for individual temperature control in different areas of the building based on occupants' preferences and usage patterns.
To achieve this, the HVAC system needs additional components, such as motorized dampers or zone control panels. The dampers are installed in the ductwork and help regulate the airflow to different zones based on the thermostat settings. The zone control panel coordinates the communication between the thermostats, dampers, and the HVAC system, ensuring that each zone receives the desired temperature.
By having multiple thermostats and zones, a zoned system can provide energy efficiency and comfort benefits. Occupied areas can be cooled or heated while unoccupied areas can be set to different temperature settings or even turned off, reducing energy consumption and utility costs.
It's worth noting that installing a zoned system requires proper design, equipment selection, and installation by a qualified HVAC professional. They can assess the specific requirements of your space and guide you on the best approach to implement a multi-zone HVAC system effectively.