Anti-stratification system as replacement for zoned?

[fullahotair]

We're remodeling our Atlanta, GA, house, which means replacing the HVAC system. The house has a 1500 sf main floor with a 1500 sf daylight basement (only one wall is fully against ground). I would like to use a dual-fuel heating system (heat pump/gas) with regular a/c. The stairwell between the two floors will be open.

We found this article (attached) in the summer 2008 Fine Homebuilding that recommended this setup as a possible replacement for a zoned system. The HVAC contractors we've spoken with say they've never heard of such a setup.

My questions: Could this work? Is this setup common in other parts of the country? Or should I stop buying Fine Homebuilding and get a zoned system?

Thanks to everyone for your help!

[classical]

That might be practical in some climates but in a humid climate like Atlanta I doubt it would suffice. The problem with articles like you posted they don't discuss location and if they are recommending for A/C heat or both.

Do yourself and have a quality contractor install a high end zoned system. I would suggest a Bryant Evolution if you can find a competent contrcator. The key is find a contractor that is competnet and comfortable with their product; this is more important than brand.

[beenthere]

An interesting set up.

[RDP]

I think it would not do what you want it to do.I could be wrong.I live 90 miles south of atl. and a zone system would probally be your best bet.But I have been wrong a time or two.Good luck.

[beenthere]

The light bulb just came on.
You have 3 exposed walls.

That would take a lot more then just 600 CFM.

Zoning is your best bet if you want to condition that basement.

[fullahotair]

I forgot to mention that we will be finishing the basement into living space. Sorry!

The light bulb just came on.
You have 3 exposed walls.

That would take a lot more then just 600 CFM.

Zoning is your best bet if you want to condition that basement.

[beenthere]

The amount of heat, or cooling the basement needs, doesn't change, weather you have a zoning system installed, or the posted example.
How well it heats or cools does though.
For a finnished basement, you would be better off zoning it.