by Unico Marketing Team | Aug 31, 2026 | Uncategorized
Every Unico System begins long before it is installed in a home or building. Behind each system is a team of skilled employees who fabricate, assemble, test, and prepare the equipment for shipment right here in the United States.
The Unico System is manufactured by SGI Manufacturing, a subsidiary of Unico, Inc., at our facility in Arnold, Missouri. While advanced technology plays an important role in the manufacturing process, much of what goes into each system still relies on hands-on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the experience of the people building it.
To take you behind the scenes, we sat down with Rich Martin, who has been with Unico for more than 20 years and currently oversees plant operations. Rich shared what goes into manufacturing The Unico System, how quality is maintained from start to finish, and why American manufacturing continues to be an important part of who we are.
Meet Rich Martin, Plant Operations Leader
Can you tell us a little about your role at The Unico System and what you oversee in manufacturing?
My main job is keeping our assembly operations and sheet metal fabrication teams running smoothly and safely every day. I focus on supporting our floor teams so we can efficiently build our blowers, coils, tubing, and other product offerings without ever cutting corners on quality.
I also monitor inventory levels and purchasing to make sure our teams have the materials they need to keep production moving.
From Fabrication to Shipment: How The Unico System Is Made
When someone purchases The Unico System, what goes into manufacturing that product before it leaves our facility?
It’s a combination of advanced technology and real hands-on labor.
In our fabrication area, automated lasers precision-cut flat sheet metal panels. Those parts then move to assembly, where our teams install insulation, build the blowers, and assemble the copper and aluminum coils.
From there, everything is assembled, tested, packaged, and shipped from our facility. There are a lot of steps and a lot of people involved before the finished Unico System is ready to leave our plant.
Quality Control at Every Step
Quality is a major focus at Unico. What quality control measures are in place throughout the manufacturing process?
We don’t just pull random units from a batch and test those. We check every single blower and coil section that comes off the line.
Each one goes through a strict, multi-point checklist. We physically connect the equipment to power, run the motors, test the electronics, and verify that everything is operating correctly.
If it isn’t right, it doesn’t go in a box.
What Makes Small-Duct System Manufacturing Different?
What makes manufacturing The Unico System different from manufacturing conventional HVAC equipment?
A lot of conventional HVAC equipment is mass-produced on large, highly automated assembly lines. The Unico System is a much more specialized build.
Because our small-duct systems rely on higher pressure to move conditioned air through smaller ductwork, our manufacturing tolerances have to be incredibly tight. Internal sealing and insulation have to be precise, which requires a high level of attention and hands-on craftsmanship throughout the manufacturing process.
Why American Manufacturing Matters
Many people don’t realize that The Unico System is manufactured in the United States. Why is domestic manufacturing so important to the company and its customers?
Manufacturing here gives us greater control over our engineering standards, quality, and supply chain.
For our customers and distributors, domestic manufacturing also means they aren’t necessarily waiting months for equipment or parts to arrive on a container ship from overseas. When they need a system or replacement part, we’re able to respond quickly while providing the level of quality they expect from The Unico System.
There is also a sense of pride that comes with knowing the products leaving our facility are being built by an American workforce right here in Missouri.
Build America, Buy America Compliance
The Unico System is Build America, Buy America (BABA) compliant. What does that mean from a manufacturing perspective, and why is it important?
From the manufacturing side, BABA compliance requires us to be extremely disciplined about where our raw materials and components come from.
Our iron, steel, and applicable manufactured components have to meet specific domestic sourcing requirements, and we maintain the documentation necessary to demonstrate compliance.
That is important because BABA requirements apply to many federally funded infrastructure projects. Having compliant equipment can make The Unico System an option for projects where domestic sourcing requirements must be met.
How Manufacturing Has Evolved
How has manufacturing evolved during your time at Unico? Are there any improvements or technologies that have made a significant impact?
We’ve done a great job of introducing automation where it makes sense without losing the hands-on approach that is so important to our manufacturing process.
One of the biggest advancements has been investing in our automated TRUMPF laser cutting and metal storage system in the fabrication area. It handles repetitive metal cutting with incredible speed and accuracy.
That allows technology to take care of some of the heavy, repetitive work while our assembly teams can focus their attention on building, assembling, inspecting, and testing the equipment.
The People Behind The Unico System
What part of the manufacturing process do you think would surprise customers or contractors the most?
I think people would be surprised by how much human craftsmanship is still involved.
We have high-tech equipment like our automated lasers, but there are still people wiring boards, installing insulation, assembling coils, and inspecting equipment.
The Unico System isn’t simply stamped out by robots moving down a conveyor belt. There are skilled people involved throughout the process.
Pride in Every System We Build
What makes you most proud of the work your team does every day?
Their attitude and how much they care.
The people on our floor treat these systems like they’re going into their own homes. When an issue comes up, they work together to solve it right away.
Seeing that pride and teamwork translate into a quality product shipping out the door every day is the best part of the job.
What We Want Customers to Know
If there is one thing you wish contractors, distributors, and homeowners understood about how The Unico System is built, what would it be?
I’d want them to know there are real people and a lot of heart behind every product we build.
We aren’t an unmonitored mass-production factory. A local, hardworking team built your system, tested it, and stands behind the work they did to help make sure your home stays comfortable.
More Than a Manufacturing Process
From precision laser cutting to hands-on assembly and individual product testing, manufacturing The Unico System is a combination of technology, craftsmanship, and people who take pride in what they build.
For more than 20 years, Rich has watched that manufacturing process evolve, but one thing has remained consistent: the importance of building a quality product and standing behind it.
Today, SGI Manufacturing continues to manufacture The Unico System in Arnold, Missouri, supporting Unico’s commitment to American manufacturing while producing small-duct, high-velocity HVAC equipment for homes and buildings across the United States and around the world.
by Unico Marketing Team | Aug 12, 2026 | Custom Homes, Design Flexibility, Limited Space, Older Homes
When homeowners begin researching HVAC options, mini-splits are often one of the first systems they encounter. While mini-splits can provide heating and cooling, homeowners may be looking for more than conditioned air. They want a system that delivers consistent whole-home comfort, preserves the beauty of their home, and integrates seamlessly into their lifestyle.
If you’re considering a mini-split, it’s worth understanding how The Unico System offers a different approach. Designed for whole-home comfort, The Unico System addresses many of the challenges homeowners face when aesthetics, humidity control, and consistent temperatures matter most.
The Unico System vs. Mini-Splits: Key Differences
Both The Unico System and mini-splits can provide heating and cooling, but they take different approaches to delivering conditioned air throughout a home.
Indoor Unit Visibility
Mini-splits typically use wall-mounted indoor units that remain visible in each conditioned space. The Unico System uses small, discreet outlets installed in ceilings, walls, or floors, allowing the HVAC system to blend into the home’s design.
Whole-Home Air Distribution
Mini-splits are often designed around individual zones or rooms. The Unico System is designed to provide consistent whole-home comfort using aspiration, a process that gently mixes conditioned air with the existing air in the room.
Humidity Control
Humidity can have a major impact on how comfortable a home feels. The Unico System is designed to remove up to 30% more humidity than many conventional HVAC systems, helping create a cooler, drier indoor environment.
Installation in Challenging Spaces
Mini-splits do not require traditional ductwork, but they still require visible indoor units and refrigerant lines. The Unico System uses flexible small ducts that can be routed through existing walls, ceilings, attics, and floor cavities, making it well suited for renovations, historic homes, and custom homes.
Preserve the Beauty of Your Home
Your HVAC system should enhance your home’s comfort, not compete with its design.
Whether you’ve invested in custom finishes, restored a historic property, or built your dream home, visible indoor HVAC units can distract from the overall aesthetic. The Unico System was designed with this in mind.
Instead of large wall-mounted units, conditioned air is delivered through small, discreet outlets that blend seamlessly into ceilings, walls, or floors. Flexible small ducts remain hidden behind the scenes, allowing your home’s architecture and interior design to remain the focal point.
For homeowners who value clean lines and timeless design, this can make all the difference.
Enjoy Consistent Whole-Home Comfort
Heating and cooling should feel effortless.
Rather than creating noticeable temperature differences between rooms, The Unico System utilizes aspiration, a process that gently mixes conditioned air with the existing air in the room. This creates consistent temperatures throughout the home while minimizing drafts and reducing hot and cold spots.
The result is a more balanced and comfortable living environment from room to room.
Improve Indoor Humidity Control
Comfort is about more than temperature.
High humidity can leave your home feeling warm and uncomfortable even when the thermostat says otherwise. That’s why humidity control is one of the defining characteristics of The Unico System.
By removing up to 30% more humidity than many conventional HVAC systems, The Unico System helps create a cooler, drier indoor environment. Homeowners can enjoy improved comfort without constantly adjusting the thermostat.
Designed for Homes Where Space Is Limited
Not every home has room for bulky ductwork or visible mechanical equipment.
The Unico System uses flexible small ducts that can be routed through existing walls, ceilings, attics, and floor cavities with minimal disruption. This makes it an excellent solution for older homes, historic renovations, custom homes, and other projects where preserving the home’s structure and appearance is essential.
Instead of designing your home around your HVAC system, The Unico System is designed to fit your home.
Go Beyond Heating and Cooling
Today’s homeowners expect more from their HVAC system.
The Unico System can be paired with whole-home indoor air quality solutions such as advanced filtration, UV air purification, ERVs, and HRVs. Combined with humidity control and consistent air distribution, it delivers a complete indoor comfort solution designed for modern living.
How to Choose the Right HVAC System for Your Home
The right HVAC system depends on the needs of your home, your comfort goals, and your renovation or construction plans.
A mini-split may be a good option when individual room or zone conditioning is the primary goal. The Unico System may be a better fit for homeowners looking for whole-home comfort, discreet outlets, hidden ductwork, and humidity control.
Your home’s layout, existing infrastructure, available space, and design goals should all be considered when choosing an HVAC system.
Every home is different, which is why every HVAC system should be thoughtfully designed.
At The Unico System, our free design service helps contractors and homeowners determine the ideal system layout for each project. Our team performs load calculations and develops a custom design to help ensure your home receives the quiet, efficient, and comfortable performance The Unico System is known for.
If you’re researching mini-splits, take the time to explore another option. The Unico System delivers whole-home comfort, humidity control, and a discreet design that preserves the beauty of your home while providing lasting performance for years to come.
by Unico Marketing Team | Jul 22, 2026 | Training
Building Confidence Through HVAC Training: A Q&A with National Trainer Matt Gordon
Whether you’re a manufacturer’s representative, distributor, contractor, architect, or other HVAC professional, understanding The Unico System is key to delivering successful projects and an exceptional customer experience. From product knowledge and system design to installation best practices and troubleshooting, the right HVAC training helps professionals work with confidence.
We sat down with Matt Gordon, National Trainer at Unico, Inc., to discuss why training matters, what attendees can expect from our program, and how professionals across the HVAC industry can continue building their expertise.
Meet Matt Gordon, National Trainer
What Is Your Role at Unico?
Matt: As National Trainer, my role is to educate representatives, distributors, contractors, and other HVAC professionals on The Unico System product line. Depending on the audience, training may focus on product knowledge, system design, installation best practices, applications, or troubleshooting. My goal is to ensure everyone who works with The Unico System has the knowledge and confidence to be successful.
Why Proper HVAC Training Makes a Difference
Why Is HVAC Training Important?
Matt: Proper training benefits everyone involved. Representatives who understand the product can confidently present its advantages to architects, builders, and homeowners. Distributors are better equipped to support their customers, contractors gain confidence during installation, and technicians can diagnose and service systems more efficiently. When everyone understands how the system is designed to perform, projects run more smoothly and customers have a better experience.
HVAC Training Options at The Unico System
What Training Opportunities Are Available?
Matt: We offer several training options designed to fit different learning styles and schedules. Professionals can attend our two- or two-and-a-half-day Factory Training in Arnold, Missouri, participate in field training hosted throughout the country, join live virtual training sessions, or complete self-paced courses through Unico University. Whether you’re looking for a broad understanding of the system or training tailored to your role, we have an option for you.
Factory Training: What to Expect
What Can Attendees Expect During Factory Training?
Matt: Factory Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning. On the first day, attendees learn about The Unico System products, installation guidelines, applications, and system fundamentals. The second day is entirely hands-on, allowing participants to apply what they learned by working directly with the equipment. On the final day, we cover Chiltrix and zoning through a combination of classroom instruction and practical exercises. By the end of the program, attendees leave with the confidence to better support, sell, design, install, or service The Unico System.
Benefits of Hands-On HVAC Training
Why Is Hands-On Training Better Than Manuals or Videos?
Matt: The biggest difference is the hands-on experience. Reading manuals and watching videos are valuable, but people retain information much better when they physically work with the equipment. Factory Training provides a controlled environment where attendees can ask questions, practice techniques, and receive guidance from experienced instructors. We also utilize the VARK learning model, which has been shown to improve how people retain and apply information.
Field Training for HVAC Professionals
How Does Field Training Help?
Matt: Field training provides many of the same core concepts while focusing on the needs of a particular audience, application, or project. Depending on the training, attendees may receive classroom instruction, hands-on experience, or both. It’s a great way for professionals to build their knowledge without traveling to our factory.
Learn at Your Own Pace with Unico University
What Is Unico University?
Matt: Unico University is our online learning platform. Nearly everything we teach during Factory Training is available through online lectures or video courses. It’s a valuable resource for onboarding new employees, reinforcing previous training, or helping experienced professionals refresh their knowledge. Since people naturally forget information over time, revisiting the material through Unico University helps improve long-term retention.
Common Challenges New Installers Face
What Are the Most Common Misconceptions Before Training?
Matt: One of the biggest challenges is understanding how small-duct, high-velocity airflow works. Professionals who are unfamiliar with SDHV systems sometimes struggle to understand air movement, which can lead to systems that don’t perform as intended. Training helps eliminate those misconceptions before they become costly mistakes.
What Professionals Say After Training
What Feedback Do You Hear Most Often?
Matt: The hands-on portion consistently receives the highest praise. Whether someone is a representative, distributor, or contractor, attendees often tell us it’s one of the best training experiences they’ve had because it gives them the confidence to apply what they’ve learned.
Recommended Training Path for New Professionals
Where Should Someone New to The Unico System Start?
Matt: Every professional has different goals, so there isn’t one path that fits everyone. I always recommend starting with lecture-based training, whether that’s through a live virtual class or Factory Training. From there, the next step depends on your role and experience. If you’re looking for the most complete understanding of The Unico System, Factory Training offers the best combination of classroom education and hands-on learning.
Continue Your HVAC Education with The Unico System
The best HVAC systems are supported by knowledgeable professionals. Whether you’re introducing The Unico System to customers, designing projects, supporting distributors, or installing systems in the field, the right training gives you the confidence to succeed.
The Unico System offers factory training, field training, live virtual classes, and Unico University to help HVAC professionals continue learning throughout their careers.
To learn more about upcoming training opportunities, visit our Unico University page or contact Matt Gordon at [email protected].
by Unico Marketing Team | Jul 10, 2026 | Uncategorized
When homeowners think about replacing their HVAC system, many assume that a larger unit will provide better comfort and performance. After all, shouldn’t a bigger system cool or heat a home faster?
In reality, oversized HVAC systems can create a variety of problems, including poor humidity control, uneven temperatures, and higher energy costs. That is why proper HVAC sizing is one of the most important factors in achieving year-round comfort, efficiency, and long-term system performance.
The Problem with Oversized HVAC Systems
Conventional HVAC systems are often selected based on square footage alone. However, every home has unique heating and cooling requirements influenced by insulation, window placement, air leakage, occupancy, and local climate conditions.
When an HVAC system is too large for the space, it tends to short cycle, turning on and off frequently because it reaches the thermostat setpoint too quickly.
Although this may seem like a good thing, short cycling prevents the system from operating efficiently and can lead to several issues.
Problems Caused by an Oversized HVAC System
An oversized system can result in:
- Uneven temperatures throughout the home
- Increased wear and tear on equipment
- Higher energy consumption
- Reduced equipment lifespan
- Poor humidity control
- Less consistent indoor comfort
A properly sized HVAC system runs longer, operates more efficiently, and delivers steady, even comfort throughout the home.
Why Humidity Control Matters
Comfort is about more than temperature. The amount of moisture in the air plays a major role in how comfortable your home feels.
An oversized air conditioner may cool a room quickly, but it often shuts off before it has enough time to remove excess humidity. As a result, the home may reach the desired temperature while still feeling damp, sticky, or uncomfortable.
This is especially important during the summer months when high humidity can affect indoor comfort, reduce indoor air quality, and contribute to mold and mildew growth.
Proper humidity control creates a healthier indoor environment while helping homeowners feel comfortable at higher thermostat settings, which can also improve energy efficiency.
The Importance of a Manual J Load Calculation
The best way to determine the correct HVAC system size is through a Manual J Load Calculation.
Rather than guessing or simply replacing an existing unit with one of the same capacity, professional load calculations evaluate the home’s actual heating and cooling needs.
What Factors Are Included in a Load Calculation?
A Manual J Load Calculation considers factors such as:
- Home construction
- Insulation levels
- Window orientation and placement
- Air infiltration
- Occupancy patterns
- Local and regional climate conditions
The goal is simple: match the HVAC system to the home’s actual requirements.
Accurate HVAC sizing helps ensure consistent comfort, improved efficiency, lower operating costs, and longer equipment life.
Proper HVAC Sizing Starts with Proper Design
Choosing the right HVAC system is about much more than selecting equipment. It begins with understanding the home’s unique characteristics and designing a system that delivers the right amount of heating and cooling.
At The Unico System, every successful installation starts with proper design. That is why we offer a free HVAC design service to help contractors, architects, builders, and homeowners determine the best solution for their project.
Our design team performs a professional load calculation while evaluating the home’s size, construction, insulation, window placement, and local climate conditions. This information allows us to recommend the appropriate system size for optimal comfort, efficiency, and long-term performance.
Once the load calculation is complete, our team can also provide recommendations for:
- HVAC system sizing
- Duct layout
- Supply outlet placement
- Air distribution design
By designing the system before installation, homeowners can avoid the common problems associated with oversized or undersized HVAC equipment.
Benefits of Proper HVAC Sizing
When an HVAC system is correctly sized, homeowners enjoy benefits that extend well beyond energy savings.
Proper HVAC sizing provides:
- More consistent temperatures throughout the home
- Better humidity removal
- Improved indoor air quality
- Lower monthly energy bills
- Longer equipment lifespan
- Reduced maintenance needs
- Greater overall comfort year-round
Rather than cycling on and off constantly, a properly sized system runs as intended, delivering balanced airflow and maintaining consistent indoor conditions.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to HVAC design, bigger is not better.
An oversized HVAC system may seem like it will cool or heat a home faster, but it often leads to short cycling, poor humidity control, increased energy usage, and unnecessary wear on the equipment.
The key to long-lasting comfort is proper HVAC sizing based on a professional load calculation and a thoughtfully designed air distribution system.
That is the philosophy behind The Unico System—delivering comfort by design, not by oversizing.
If you’re planning a new construction project, renovation, or HVAC replacement, take advantage of Unico’s free design service. Our team can perform a professional load calculation and recommend the ideal system size, duct layout, and outlet placement to help ensure lasting comfort, efficiency, and performance.
by Unico Marketing Team | Jul 4, 2026 | Uncategorized
Celebrating America’s 250th: Proudly Manufacturing The Unico System in the USA
In 2026, the United States celebrates an extraordinary milestone-250 years of independence. The Semiquincentennial is more than a reflection of our nation’s history; it’s a celebration of the innovation, resilience, and craftsmanship that continue to define America today.
At Unico, Inc., we’re proud to be part of that story.
Since 1985, we’ve proudly manufactured The Unico System, where American ingenuity, skilled craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality come together to create an innovative HVAC solution trusted by homeowners, contractors, architects, and engineers across North American, and beyond.
Building on an American Tradition
For 250 years, American manufacturing has driven innovation, strengthened communities, and fueled economic growth. Today’s manufacturers continue that legacy by developing products that solve real-world challenges while supporting American jobs and domestic industries.
That tradition is at the heart of everything we do.
Every Unico System we manufacture reflects the expertise of our engineers, production teams, and quality professionals who are dedicated to building products that perform to the highest standards. Manufacturing in the United States isn’t simply about where our products are made-its about investing in American workers, supporting local communities, like ours in Arnold, MO, and delivering the quality our customers expect.
Innovation That Continues to Move the Industry Forward
Since introducing The Unico System. We’ve challenged traditional thinking of HVAC.
Our small-duct high-velocity technology provides a unique solution for homes and buildings where traditional ductwork isn’t practical. Whether preserving the character of a historic home, designing a custom residence, or upgrading a commercial building, we’ve remained focused on delivering superior comfort without compromise.
Innovation has always been part of our DNA, and every system we manufacture in Arnold reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and American engineering.
Committed to American Quality and Innovation
Our dedication to American manufacturing is reinforced by our commitment to meeting the highest standards of quality and compliance.
The Unico System is officially Build American, Buy America (BABA compliant, ensuring our products meet the requirements for federally funded infrastructure and energy projects while supporting domestic manufacturing.
Choosing The Unico System means choosing:
- Build American, Buy America (BABA) compliance for qualifying federal and state funded projects.
- Proven American quality, backed by decades of manufacturing in Arnold, MO.
- Support for American jobs, domestic manufacturing, and infrastructure growth.
BABA compliance reinforces what we’ve believed since day one-that manufacturing in America matters. It’s a commitment to quality, accountability, and supporting the people and communities that make American manufacturing strong.
A Proud Manufacturing Legacy
For more than 40 years, we’ve proudly manufactured The Unico System in the United States. Our manufacturing journey began in the city of St. Louis, where we built our reputation for innovation and quality. Today, we continue that tradition at our manufacturing facility in Arnold, Missouri.
While our location has evolved over the years, our commitment has remained the same: designing and building innovative HVAC solutions in America.
Every Unico System that leaves our facility represents more than advanced HVAC technology. It reflects the pride, craftsmanship, and dedication of the people who build it.
Celebrating America’s Next 250 Years
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, we’re proud to celebrate the enduring spirit of American innovation and manufacturing.
For more than four decades, The Unico System has been designed and manufactured in the United States, delivering innovative HVAC solutions built by American hands and backed by American quality. Today, out Build America, Buy America compliance further demonstrates our commitment to supporting customers, strengthening domestic manufacturing, and investing in America’s future.
We’re honored to be part of America’s manufacturing story, and we’re excited to continue building on that legacy for generations to come.
Here’s to the next 250 years of American innovation, craftsmanship, and the people who make it all possible.
