An HVAC system is provided and includes an evaporator for providing cold air and a heater core for providing hot air. A heater airflow path directs an airflow through a heater air outlet where a heater damper door controls the volume of the airflow through the heater air outlet. A defroster airflow path directs an airflow through a defroster air outlet and a defroster damper door controls the volume of the airflow through the defroster air outlet. The defroster damper door operates independently from the heater damper door. A separation channel is located between the heater airflow path and the defroster airflow path to separate the airflow of the heater airflow path from the airflow of the defroster airflow path.