According to the U.S. Department of Energy, residential homes are responsible for 21% of the energy used in the country each year. More and more people want to reduce the amount of energy their homes use each year to save costs and to help the environment. These are two core reasons that have contributed to the rise in demand for low-load and net zero homes.

The HVAC system is a crucial piece in the design and build of a low-load or net zero home as it determines how energy efficient a residential home can be. Let’s look at the best HVAC solution for low- load and net zero homes.

Airtight Homes Need a Reliable HVAC System

One of the ways low-load and net zero homes reach high levels of energy efficiency is by having an airtight building space. The structure of the house is specifically designed to reduce the amount of conditioned air that leaks out. This type of design also helps the living space be more comfortable due to less air escaping, allowing for even temperatures.

The HVAC system that’s chosen for low-load and net zero homes is essential. Even when the building has an airtight envelope, leaking ducts throw the system off balance. Traditional metal ductwork is known to have higher levels of thermal loss compared to small-duct, high-velocity (SDHV) systems. That temperature loss forces the HVAC system to work harder, spending more energy to make up for the deficit.

With The Unico System, this is not an issue. The ductwork is one-third the size of traditional ducts and achieves one-third less thermal loss. The supply tubing is wrapped with an outer vapor barrier and insulation that’s designed to keep nearly all the thermal energy inside the ducts. Through third-party testing¹, it’s documented that traditional HVAC systems lose up to 25% of the air pushed through the ducts – while Unico loses less than 5%.

The Unico System Can Be Paired with Chiltrix for Added Comfort and Efficiency

Chiltrix by Unico is the leader in air-to-water heat pumps. It’s a great energy-efficient addition to HVAC systems in net zero and low-load homes. The Chiltrix unit pulls in heat from the outdoor air and transfers it to water. Its design allows Chiltrix to be compatible with a variety of popular systems for net zero and low-load homes, like underfloor heating or radiant cooling.

Every Chiltrix unit is a load and capacity-aware heat pump. Plus, there’s a variable-speed inverter compressor and pump to help ensure the system doesn’t use more energy than it needs. It’s one of the best energy-efficient solutions for all-electric homes and is AHRI-certified, just like The Unico System.

Chiltrix by Unico offers all these benefits while ensuring there’s no refrigerant inside the home thanks to its monoblock design. All its critical components, like the compressor, condenser and evaporator, are housed in the outdoor unit. Through insulated water line connections, Chiltrix works with The Unico System to offer homes optimal comfort with high efficiency.

Small Duct, High-Velocity HVAC Systems Fit in Any Home Design

Net zero and low-load homes are built with the targeted intention of reducing energy usage. Part of this process involves putting in heavily insulated walls to reduce thermal loss, reducing the amount of space for traditional metal ducts, insulation and other design elements. This problem is one of the reasons why single-zoned duct systems became popular in net zero homes.

The Unico System is perfect for net zero and low-load homes because it fits where other HVAC systems simply cannot. The small, flexible ducts can be easily woven through the floor or walls–there’s no need to adjust the design of the home to accommodate it. Also, The Unico System is less disruptive than other options–not only keeping the home more comfortable with less energy, but it also saves time during the construction process.

See How The Unico System and Chiltrix Fit Into Your Home Design

If you are a manufacturer or architect, Contact our Design Services Team today and we will look at your modular home plans and develop a system configuration that works. You’ll even be able to install part of the system at the factory for increased efficiency.

If you are a homeowner, Find a Unico Rep to start the process of developing a system configuration that works best for your modular home plans.

¹U.S. Department of Energy – Better Duct Systems for Home Heating and Cooling. https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy05osti/30506.pdf

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Did you know that the modular home market is expected to grow at an average of 6 percent each year until 2028? As this market expands, more home building companies are looking for ways to streamline their manufacturing. The process of finding the right HVAC system for modular homes is often a challenge. Traditional systems often feature bulky ductwork that may not seamlessly integrate in your design plans.

The Unico System Offers Unmatched Design Flexibility

When a modular home is being built, there are some HVAC systems that slow down the process and create roadblocks. With a traditional HVAC unit, extra time might need to be spent adjusting the design to accommodate the size of the system’s components. For example, a wall might need to be brought in a foot or two so the ductwork can be installed. The Unico System doesn’t require you to build around bulky HVAC components.

The Unico System is small enough to fit in between the floor and roof system (or modules) during the construction process. With most of the ductwork running through the interstitial space, all you’ll see in the rooms are the round outlets. Those outlets can also be customized to match almost any décor. With The Unico System as the HVAC solution for your modular home, you get a less invasive solution that provides optimal comfort.

Installation and Training at the Factory

One of the greatest benefits for modular manufacturers and builders is that both installation and training can be done on-site at the factory. In most cases, a member of the Unico team will then meet you at the job site to oversee the connections between the modules. This ensures that the modules are properly fitted as well as allowing for any adjustments, should they be needed. Therefore, minimizing any potential issues that may arise during the installation process.

Get Energy Efficiency Without Sacrificing Comfort

More and more modular homebuyers want an energy-efficient residence which is the reason why modular home builders are creating passive and net zero designs. If you’re looking for an energy-efficient HVAC system, Unico is the solution. With traditional HVAC units, heat often leaks through the walls of the ducts. While there are building practices that address this, there’s less flexibility with modular homes since a uniform design needs to be followed, which isn’t ideal for traditional HVAC systems.

• Heat can leak through the walls of the duct (thermal loss) and air can leak through its seams (duct leakage). In both cases, the Unico System is far superior to a conventional system. Insulation and size determine the thermal loss. Workmanship and design determine the duct leakage.
• The Unico System ductwork has 1/3 the surface area of conventional ducting so before it is even installed the Unico System ductwork has 1/3 less thermal loss. The supply tubing is also wrapped with insulation and an outer vapor barrier, which keeps nearly all of the thermal energy within the duct.
• In the case of duct leakage, the Unico SDHV system is engineered for simplicity and air tightness. It has been documented through third-party testing that traditional systems can lose up to 25% of the air that the unit puts out through leaky ductwork. The Unico System loses less than 5%. This means that with the Unico System you’re getting what you pay for.

The Unico System doesn’t have this issue since its ductwork takes up only a third of the surface area and only allows a third of the thermal loss of traditional HVAC systems. Every piece of supply tubing is wrapped in insulation and an outer vapor barrier to help keep almost all the thermal energy inside the duct. Through third-party testing, it was found that traditional HVAC systems can lose up to 25% of the air being pushed throughout a home, while The Unico System loses less than 5%.

With insulation supply tubing, The Unico System creates a gentle suction that draws the air in the room into its airflow. The result is a temperature differential that’s no more than 2% from the thermostat setting across the entire modular home.

Give Your Modular Home Manufacturing More Flexibility

Instead of having to compromise your modular home design to accommodate an HVAC system, choose an option that can fit into any space. No matter what type of modular home design you’re manufacturing, The Unico System is the right HVAC solution. This small yet powerful HVAC system won’t compromise your design and can deliver comfort throughout the home.

Because The Unico System’s supply tubing is lined with a nylon inner core that absorbs the sound and vibration of air being pushed through the system, The Unico System runs whisper-quiet.

The Unico System Design Process for Modular Homes

If you are a manufacturer or architect, Contact our Design Services Team today and we will look at your modular home plans and develop a system configuration that works. You’ll even be able to install part of the system at the factory for increased efficiency.

If you are a homeowner, Find a Unico Rep to start the process of developing a system configuration that works best for your modular home plans.

The post Why The Unico System is the Right Solution for Modular Homes appeared first on The Unico System.

While The Unico System is known for giving homes draft-free, even temperatures, Chiltrix by Unico™ elevates this experience. Let’s take a closer look at how our small-duct high-velocity system pairs with Chiltrix’s air-to-water heat pump.

What Makes Chiltrix Different from Other Air-to-Water Heat Pumps?

Air-to-water heat pumps are rising in popularity and use; there is no shortage of systems to choose from for your project. What makes the Chiltrix system unique? For starters, all the essential components, including the evaporator, condenser, and compressor are housed within the outdoor unit of the system. This “Monoblock” design ensures that there’s no refrigerant present inside the home.

With Chiltrix, you can be confident that safety and environmental consciousness were the priority in the design of this air-to-water heat pump. It also takes advantage of R32 refrigerant, which has zero ozone-depleting potential, gives the entire HVAC system higher energy efficiency, and uses less refrigerant on average compared to other options.

It’s also worth mentioning that Chiltrix can seamlessly connect to your indoor HVAC system through insulated water lines—ensuring a more efficient way to have smooth heating and cooling.

How Chiltrix Helps with HVAC Energy Efficiency

Chiltrix is much more energy efficient than other heating and cooling systems powered by oil or gas. It doesn’t burn any oil or gas in the heating process, giving you the option to have a net-zero energy application when it’s used with solar panels. You’ll also get a high-efficiency hot water supply for the home, which can help reduce the cost of monthly energy bills.

What are the Main Benefits of Pairing Chiltrix with The Unico System?

Now that we know the unique benefits of Chiltrix, let’s dig into the advantages of combining it with The Unico System.

-HVAC Energy Efficiency: Chiltrix and The Unico System are the only HVAC product pairing on the market that specializes in zero energy and passive house installations. Unico has the leading high-efficiency hydronic air handler, and Chiltrix is the highest-efficiency source for hot and cold water. Together, the Unico and Chiltrix solution is one of the most energy-efficient HVAC systems available.

-Flexibility: Both Chiltrix and The Unico System have amazing flexibility for custom and older home projects. The Unico System is compact (ducts are roughly one-third the size of other options) and designed to fit where traditional HVAC systems can’t go. Chiltrix gives you more options in home design by being the perfect fit for underfloor heating, domestic hot water systems, radiant cooling, and more.

– Comfort Without the Noise: Some HVAC systems can be noisy when they’re switched on, which can cause disruptions in the home. With Chiltrix by Unico™, you won’t have to worry about it. Unico’s ducts are whisper-quiet, with supply tubing being designed to minimize sound.

Chiltrix follows suit with the ability for the outdoor unit to be placed up to 300 feet from the home. Get reliable comfort control without the noise.

Chiltrix by Unico™ for Your Custom and Older Home Projects

If you’re interested in improving the HVAC energy efficiency of your home or project, Chiltrix by Unico™ is a great option. The ultra-efficient HVAC solution that’s perfect for any home trying to incorporate more net zero energy.

Don’t compromise on comfort or efficiency with your HVAC system. See if Chiltrix by Unico is a good fit for your project today!

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The Unico System, a high-efficiency cooling and heating system, can be discreetly retrofitted into historic homes without the need for extensive remodeling or intrusive ductwork. There’s less mess, less dust, less installation time— and no need to get your home for installation whether you’re replacing or supplementing your radiant heating system.

The Unico System offers three configurations in radiator homes:

– Connected to an existing boiler

– Connected to a heat pump

– Connected to an electric duct heater

Here are 10 ways small duct systems can increase comfort in homes by replacing a home radiator.

Home Comfort

Efficient supplemental system. Small duct systems can supplement old radiators or boiler systems. In colder climates where radiators are needed to deliver warmth after the temperatures drop below freezing, Unico efficiently improves comfort in the fall and spring. Plus, Unico also delivers the same home comfort in the summer when it’s time to turn on your air conditioner.

Draft-free. A small duct heating system eliminates drafts. That means no more chills down the back of your neck when your heat isn’t running. Air is heated inside the central system and is released at a higher temperature, creating a more even warmth than systems that draw air from the outside. Unwanted drafts are often caused by systems that pull in outdoor air and need to work harder to warm the cold air coming into the system.

Ultraviolet light. When installed with an ultraviolet (UV) light, The Unico System penetrates and kills harmful bacteria and viruses as it delivers clean air throughout your home. UV lights have been used in hospitals and water treatment plants for years, and now you can have the same benefits in your home.

Air filtration. Are allergies a concern? If so, The Unico System has an air filter rated MERV 13, which filters out particles as small as 3 microns, including pollen, dust and other allergens. Why is MERV 13 important? That’s the standard hospitals use when rating their air systems. Because Unico is a compact system with small air registers, it traps less dust and allergens in the system compared to traditional and mini split systems.

Even temperature. Radiators make the surrounding air warm but do little to circulate it, making the air hot near the heater and cool everywhere else. Small duct systems circulate air evenly throughout every room of the home. With The Unico System’s SMART Control Board, your HVAC system intelligently delivers consistent temperature to every room. That means the same temperature in every room—even rooms that always seem to be warmer or cooler than the rest of the house.

Fits in Your Space

Reclaim floor space. Old radiators can take up an inconvenient amount of floor space in a room, and newer versions still require a significant amount of space near the wall. Small duct outlets are only 2” to 2.5” in diameter and can be placed on the floor, wall, or ceiling—wherever it will be out of the way for the design of the room. Installing a small duct system would let you regain floor space in your home.

Works with boilers and hot water heaters. When installed with the Unico Hot Water Coil, The Unico System can bring ducted heating and cooling to homes with a boiler already in place. Hydronic heating is a modern solution to an old radiator heater. The Unico Hot Water Coil is designed to integrate with boilers, hot water heaters, and radiant systems, such as radiators, baseboard heating and in-floor heating.

Ideal for historic homes. Small ducts fit in most homes without requiring major renovation. Air supply tubing is flexible and can be inserted into existing tight spaces. This makes mini ducts the best choice for historic or older homes where you want to maintain the home’s character and want your heating system to have minimal visual impact. Plus, Unico has partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation since 2002 and has been installed at sites, such as President Lincoln’s Cottage.

Sustainable Heat

Reduce fossil fuels. Looking to reduce your home’s carbon footprint? Supplementing a radiant system with small duct heating helps you convert from burning fossil fuels to a more sustainable solution. When configured with a heat pump or electric duct heater, your Unico System generates heat from geothermal or electric sources.

Regulation compliance. The Unico System helps homes meet changing energy consumption regulations that are being adopted by state legislatures across the country. Most of these regulations are aimed at new home construction, but major renovations may also be affected. Fortunately, installing a Unico System requires little to no renovation and improves efficiency by delivering comfort at a lower thermostat setting. The Unico System’s airtight supply tubing means 100% of the warm air is used to improve home comfort.

To learn more, find your local contractor for more information.

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When considering the pros and cons of forced air heating, it’s important to understand how those pros and cons change when comparing different sources of heat. With a small duct system from Unico, you get many of the same advantages of a gas furnace forced air system with none of the cons.

Heating configurations with The Unico System:

Heat Pump: The Unico System standard refrigerant coil can provide both central heating and cooling when paired with either an outdoor air-source or ground-source (geothermal) heat pump. This method has a distinct advantage over conventional central air system’s heat pump coils in that the air it puts out actually feels warm, delivering higher inside temperatures when outside temperatures fall.

Hot Water Coil: Hydronic heating with a Unico System hot water coil matched with a boiler (or, less commonly, a high efficiency hot water heater) is an excellent method of efficient, comfortable central heating. This method can be used as primary heating or as a supplement to radiators (either free-standing or baseboard-mounted) and is an exceptional partner to in-floor radiant systems. Because The Unico System provides instant heat it is a perfect companion to these types of systems in the “shoulder” months – those times when just enough heat is needed to take the chill out of the air and firing up a radiant system would take too long and expend too much energy.

Electric Duct Heater: An electric furnace that can be placed directly within the plenum (main duct configuration), the Unico electric duct heater provides immediate heat and is available in sizes ranging from 2 to 20 kW. Unico electric duct heaters can be used for primary or auxiliary heat. No matter which method you or your installing contractor choose you’ll be sure to get the very best in efficient, comfortable small-duct central heating.

Pros of forced air heating

Heats the whole home. Radiant heat, such as radiators or baseboard heating, warms the space near the source, but they do little to circulate the air. Radiators can make you feel warm and comfortable if you’re near the unit in the room, but leave you shivering if you’re not close enough. Ductless systems, also known as mini split systems, need to be installed in every room because they don’t have a network of ducts connecting the rooms. High velocity heating moves warmed air throughout the entire home, delivering comfort in every room.

Unobtrusive. Ducting for Unico is built into the walls or ceilings. Radiators on the other hand take up floor space or require a wall to be unobstructed. Unico systems take up even less space with 2” to 2.5” round ductwork. Unico is the preferred choice for many historic and custom homes because it fits anywhere and requires no major renovations during installation. Small duct systems also have a central unit small enough to be put in attics or crawl spaces.

Disadvantages of forced air heating

All heating systems are not created equal. Traditional, wide duct systems that heat using a gas furnace can have major drawbacks.

Dry air. Gas furnaces have a flame that dries the air in your home. This leads to uncomfortable dry skin and a dry nose, which makes you more susceptible to viruses and other contagions. Using a heating system that uses electric heat instead of burning gas can help maintain moisture in the air when in operation.

Inefficient. The wide metal ducts traditionally used by gas heating systems leak air and lose heat, no matter how they’re installed. Metal ducts lose air at the seams and are not 100% airtight. Metal ducts also cause friction, reducing air flow, as opposed to The Unico System with its nylon interior designed for efficient air flow.

Pros of The Unico System

The Unico System delivers the pros of forced air heating without the cons. Whether you’re looking at adding forced air heating to your home or a replacement for your existing forced air heating system, here’s why you should consider The Unico System.

No more dry air. With a small duct heating system from Unico, you can say goodbye to dry skin and air that comes with traditional heating systems. The Unico System is a closed system that warms air from within your home without drying it out, keeping your home comfortable and healthy.

Whisper-quiet. Traditional wide ducting isn’t insulated and acts like mini echo chambers throughout your home. Unico System customers often forget their system is running because it’s whisper quiet. Engineered with special sound-absorbing air supply tubing means there’s no creaking or vibrating when the system turns on.

Fits your home. With its small air register and mini ducts, The Unico System fits in every house without requiring major renovation—even historic homes. Unico’s air supply tubing is flexible and can be inserted into existing tight spaces without tearing up walls and ceilings. This makes small ducts the best choice for historic or older homes where you want to maintain the home’s character and don’t want to add bulky systems.

Efficient comfort. Compared to gas furnaces, a small duct system delivers warmer air with less heat loss through the vents. That means you can set your thermostat and get reliable comfort no matter the time of day or outdoor temperature. The Unico System’s SMART Control Board manages fan speed and allows for zoning if some rooms tend to be warmer or cooler, further improving energy efficiency.

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While this might seem like a challenging problem to solve, there are proven ways to help your HVAC system be more energy efficient. Join the experts at The Unico System as we share five energy- saving tips for HVAC systems.

1. Use Fans to Help Circulate Air

In the summer, warm air rises and can get caught in a room. And in the winter, hot air often collects in the attic and near the upper floor ceilings, where no one is able to enjoy the comfort it should provide. Whether it’s hot or cold outside, using a fan to circulate air in your home will help move warm air throughout the space. This process helps create a more even temperature, which means your HVAC system doesn’t need to work as hard.

2. Be Sure to Change Your Air Filters

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, regularly changing the filter is one of the most important energy-saving tips for HVAC systems. In fact, replacing a dirty filter that is clogged with debris can make your unit 5% to 15% more energy efficient. Why is this the case? As dust, pet hair, pollen and other particles get caught in the filter, there comes a point where air can’t travel through it as effectively.

HVAC system filters should be checked at least once a month and replaced around every six months. You’ll also want to clean vents to prevent any accumulated dust finding its way to the filter.

3. Double Check Your Windows and Doors

Other than making sure your windows and doors are closed when your HVAC system is running, it’s important these access points have tight seals. Perform a quick test by running your hand through the seams of a door or window. If you feel any significant rushes of air coming through, it’s a sign that a tighter seal is needed. If air is leaking outside of the conditioned space, your HVAC unit needs to stay on longer to make up the
difference.

4. Add Insulation to Your Attic, Basement and Crawl Space

The process of checking your home for drafts should also include the attic, basement and crawl space. Take a look at the current insulation and see if there are any gaps that need to be sealed with additional material. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has stated that you can save roughly 15% of your HVAC energy costs by adding insulation to these core areas. Some common trouble areas usually include the rim joists in the basement and where support beams meet in the attic.

5. Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance

All the energy-saving tips for HVAC systems we outlined above won’t be as effective without regular maintenance. Almost every HVAC system comes with instructions from the manufacturer on the steps you can take to keep up with regular maintenance that should be done roughly every six months. Some checklist items you can expect to find are often:

• Cleaning the drain lines of the unit and removing any clogs.

• Check the drain pans and be sure to get rid of any standing water.

• Make sure your thermostat accurately controls the HVAC unit.

• Get the system’s condenser and evaporator coils cleaned.

Save on Energy Costs with The Unico System

The Unico System is engineered for simplicity and air tightness within the ductwork to help your home become more energy efficient. With ducts that are one-third the surface area of traditional ductwork, you’ll see one-third less thermal loss. In fact, testing showed that The Unico System loses less than 5% of the air it delivers to rooms.

If you want optimal comfort for your home while saving on energy bills, The Unico System is the best choice.
Find a Unico contractor near you to get started today.

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While SEER ratings are important, they don’t tell the whole story. Join us as we break down SEER ratings and other important factors that impact HVAC systems.

What an HVAC’s SEER Rating Means

The SEER rating is one of the important indicators for an HVAC system’s efficiency. Usually, the higher SEER rating an HVAC unit has, the more energy efficient it is. The rating itself is a ratio that divides the average output of cooling used by the amount of energy that session took. It’s important to note that the SEER rating signifies the highest level of efficiency the unit can reach, not necessarily its average efficiency rating.

For example, a unit with a SEER rating of 18 will only achieve an 18 when everything is running perfectly. That’s why many HVAC experts think of SEER ratings as a guide principle instead of a hard rule. Any SEER rating you see also isn’t guaranteed. There will always be other factors like a home’s ductwork that can influence an HVAC system’s performance and the length of the run between the AC unit and the air handler.

Why SEER Ratings Are Important

SEER ratings provide a guideline for not only managing energy costs, but also for finding an ideal level of comfort inside your home. Most air conditioning systems have a SEER rating that falls between 14 and 21. Part of why SEER ratings are important is because they can help you identify other factors that could be making the HVAC system less effective.

In theory, the higher the rating, the lower your energy bill should be. While a higher SEER rating usually makes the unit cost more up front, it’s expected to save homeowners money in the long run by using less energy. If your HVAC system is using more energy despite having the right SEER rating, it could be a sign that your ductwork or home insulation need to be looked at. Think of each rating as a starting point to help you find the best HVAC system for your home or project.

Going Beyond HVAC SEER Ratings

While SEER ratings are an important guideline, energy-efficient HVAC systems need to address other factors as well. Have you ever thought about ductwork having its own efficiency? With traditional HVAC systems, heat or cold air can leak through the walls of the duct, often making the system work harder to meet the desired temperature when conditioned air reaches a room.

The smaller ducts in The Unico System are wrapped with insulation and an outer vapor barrier. It’s a large part of the reason why third-party testing showed that The Unico System loses less than 5% of the air volume the unit puts out, compared to the 25% in traditional systems.

Another factor that plays a direct role in energy efficiency is lowering humidity. Traditional HVAC systems dump air into a room, creating uneven temperatures. Once the system shuts off, the humidity level starts to rise and causes the system to turn on more frequently to compensate for it.

The Unico System removes 30% more humidity thanks to the efficient design of the cooling coils. This means you can set the thermostat higher, and still enjoy the same level of comfort, since the space feels like it’s a lower temperature. With a higher set temperature, the system takes less energy to run, saving you money. To get the highest level of efficiency, The Unico System can work in tandem with a high-SEER-rated HVAC unit.

Make Your Home or Project More Energy Efficient with Unico

At Unico, we’re dedicated to helping make custom and older homes more energy efficient. If you have a project that could benefit from The Unico System, our design services team is here for support. Let us do the hard part by building out an HVAC system design. Contact our design services team today to get started.

The post Why HVAC SEER Ratings Don’t Tell the Whole Story appeared first on The Unico System.

Here, we’ll break down the pros and cons of Unico’s mini duct system, mini split or ductless air conditioners, and traditional HVAC. To find out how to choose the best HVAC for your home, answer these questions. Be sure to scroll to the bottom to find our easy checklist.

Want draft-free rooms?

While AC is essential for a comfortable home in the summer, no one likes feeling cold air blow on their shoulders.

Where you place the air outlets can make a big difference for a comfortable home. With Unico and traditional AC, you can place the outlets where they won’t be blowing directly onto the homeowners. Mini split air conditioning, on the other hand, requires a unit placed on the wall that takes up a lot of space. So it’s not likely that you’ll be able to place them in unnoticeable spots, and you will feel the draft when you sit near a mini split air conditioner.

You should also take into consideration how the air is circulated in a room. Traditional systems have a “dump and throw” airflow direction, where air gets blown into a room through one vent and air will flow into another. If the outlets aren’t placed for optimum airflow, this can create an uneven buildup of conditioned or heated air throughout the room.

Mini split systems blow air out from the wall-mounted unit, but the air is not circulated, resulting in much colder air near the unit than further away from it.

See how Unico circulates air compared to other air conditioning systems:

Unico’s high velocity air, which is released through small round outlets, creates a vacuum that draws in air and circulates it. This mixes the air, so homeowners get even temperatures from top to bottom and side to side throughout the room.

Want energy efficient airflow?

Modern homes are generally more energy efficient thanks to improvements in window types, vapor barrier protection, and calculating optimal airflow and duct placement. But if you have an older home, the Unico System can still provide efficiency with airtight duct design. Unico’s mini ducts have lock-and-release tabs that ensure an airtight fit, so 100% of the conditioned air is utilized. Traditional metal ducts lack that airtight fit and lose air at the seams no matter how well they’re installed.

The Unico System with its nylon interior is designed for efficient airflow. The mini ducts are wrapped in an insulating vapor barrier that protects against thermal loss. On the other hand, traditional metal ductwork has no thermal protection. Metal is a good conductor of heat, so it’s more difficult to control the temperature through the system. Unico uses 100% of the conditioned air for your living space, but metal ducts lose heat energy into the walls and elsewhere.

Mini split systems don’t have central airflow, and the indoor air must be conditioned by a separate unit in every room.

Have limited space for ductwork?

Traditional air conditioning is the type with large, metal ducts. If your house doesn’t already have ductwork, your installer will need to work with you on where to run the ducts and whether you’ll need to add dropped ceilings or soffits to hide them. If you own an older home, this could ruin the aesthetics of the home’s interior.

Mini split and Unico systems can be installed in a home where there is no ductwork. However, with mini split units, the installer will need to cut a large hole in the wall to install it. Unico uses small, flexible mini ducts that can be threaded through existing walls without major renovations.

Want the unit out of sight?

Mini split is the wrong way to go if you want to preserve the aesthetic design of the home. These large, bulky units need to be placed high on the wall in each room.

Traditional HVAC doesn’t need to be placed in a room like mini split units but depending on where the ductwork needs to be run it may still be visible.

Unico air handlers are much more compact than the units of other systems. They can fit into attics, crawl spaces or even a closet. Then the mini ducts are threaded through the existing walls, hidden out of sight. Ask about our painted, vertical unit specifically designed to take up as little closet space as possible.

Live in a humid region?

A Unico condenser has thicker cooling coils than those found in a traditional system, and the increased surface area allows more condensation to collect on the coils, pulling more humidity from the air. In a controlled study by the Florida Solar Energy Center, Unico was found to remove 30% more moisture from the air than traditional AC.

Unico is designed with humidity control in mind while other systems are not. The refrigerant in a Unico cooling coil is colder than in a mini split system. So, Unico collects more condensation, pulling humidity out of the air.

Already have an outdoor unit? Compatibility is key!

If you have an outdoor air conditioning unit for central AC, you’ll want to capitalize on its capabilities for better indoor comfort. Traditional central air conditioning systems are usually compatible with most brands, as is Unico. Also, Unico has partnered with ECOER, which uses modern inverter technology and uses less energy than a traditional system.

Mini split systems are split off from the rest of any central air system that may be in place, so you wouldn’t make use of an outdoor unit that you may have. Also, homeowners with mini split air conditioners need to maintain multiple units throughout the house, which can quickly drive up maintenance and repair costs.

Already have ductwork?

If your home already has traditional central air with ductwork and you’re just looking for a replacement unit, you’ll probably want to stick with traditional AC to make use of the existing infrastructure. However, if you’re renovating and replacing the ductwork, rather than replacing an outdated technology, you can choose Unico mini ducts to help you reclaim some space. And if you already have ductwork, cutting large holes in the walls for mini split units doesn’t make sense.

Want your investment to last a long time?

With correct installation and regular maintenance, many Unico systems last 20 years or more. When you install a Unico system, you will have peace of mind that it is a good investment. Traditional central air conditioning systems have a similar lifespan of 15-20 years. Mini splits tend to last only 5-10 years, so while the initial cost might be a bit cheaper, you’ll end up replacing the unit much more often.

Find a Contractor in your area to schedule a free quote and ask how The Unico System can be installed with minimal adjustments to your home’s interior. Many of our trained and certified UPCs have experience retrofitting older homes.

Or, contact our free Design Services team to find out how to receive a duct design and layout to match your home.

The post How to Choose the right HVAC System for an Older Home appeared first on The Unico System.

Why Use a Heat Pump?

One of the biggest advantages of a heat pump is that one system works for both heating and cooling. Simply put, heat pumps move heat from one space to another, depending on where it’s needed. So, in the transition between seasons when temperatures can fluctuate, the system will automatically shift between heating and cooling to maintain a perfectly comfortable temperature, without the need to worry about whether to fire up the furnace.

How Does a Heat Pump Work as an Air Conditioner?

Modern air conditioners have always worked through the concept of moving heat from one place to another. A component known as a condenser contains liquid refrigerant that absorbs heat energy inside the home. The refrigerant is moved through the system to the outdoor portion of the air conditioning unit, where the hot air is discharged.

Here’s a breakdown on the physics of how a heat pump works to keep you comfortable.

1. The evaporator coil contains a refrigerant liquid, which is very cold and easily absorbs heat. The unit uses a fan that blows the indoor air over the coil and heat is absorbed by the refrigerant. The resulting cool air is circulated into the home.
2. The refrigerant is then pressurized, and the pressurized heat causes the liquid to become a gas.
3. The hot gas moves through the system to an outdoor unit.
4. The compressed gas is hotter than the surrounding environment, even in the summer. So when the gas enters the condenser coils in the outdoor unit, heat is released into the outside air.
5. The refrigerant becomes cooler and turns back into a liquid.
6. The refrigerant is circulated back to the indoor unit, where an expansion valve reduces the pressure and allows the refrigerant to cool enough that it’s ready to absorb more heat.

Why Does a Heat Pump Work All Year?

Heat naturally wants to move to a place with less heat. The refrigerant has a freezing point lower than 32° F, making the refrigerant so cold that it still absorbs warmth from the surrounding air. In regions with mild winters, a heat pump is all you need to stay warm and comfortable all year long.

How Does a Heat Pump Work with a Furnace?

Heat pumps use electricity rather than burning fossil fuels, making heat pumps more energy efficient than a furnace or boiler during the spring and fall. However, when the temperature reaches below freezing, a heat pump requires more energy to collect the heat energy from outside, and it becomes more efficient to use a furnace.

A system with a heat pump will automatically switch between the furnace and the heat pump when it becomes more efficient. In colder climates, homeowners save money with this type of dual system through lower energy bills.

How Would a Heat Pump Work in Your Home?

Unsure how a heat pump would work where you live? A Unico Preferred Contractor can create a custom heating and cooling system design for your home and determine what you’ll need to make it operate most efficiently. Find your local contractor to schedule a free quote.

The post How Does a Heat Pump Work? appeared first on The Unico System.

Help set your project up for success by learning these 3 things buyers want from their custom home HVAC systems.

Indoor Comfort is a Top Priority

When a buyer invests in a custom home, they want the interior to be well-designed and comfortable. They’re trusting contractors like you to bring their vision to life, which includes installing an HVAC system that meets their needs. To ensure that the home you’re building has even and consistent indoor temperature, consider a small duct/high-velocity (SDHV) solution like The Unico System.

For starters, the innovative duct system makes it easy to install and can fit within almost any home design. Small, flexible ducts installed throughout the home create a comfortable and even temperature environment that’s draft-free. The Unico System manages airflow and motor speed according to the needs of each individual room. The SDHV system also dehumidifies better than any other system, while being small enough to be installed wherever you need it.

Traditional HVAC systems dump air into a room, which causes drafts and pockets of uneven temperatures, leading to homeowners being uncomfortable. Through an air principle called aspiration, The Unico System creates a gentle mixed motion of air around each duct to create an even temperature. It’s one of the custom home HVAC features that keeps the temperature differential two degrees or less from what’s set on the thermostat compared to the roughly 10-degree swings common with traditional systems.

Ability to Blend In

Buyers of custom homes want an HVAC system that does its job in the background and goes unnoticed. With many traditional systems, the bulky ducts can be an eyesore that interferes with the aesthetics of a room and are also noisy, reminding you of its presence every time the system kicks on. Fortunately, The Unico System solves both issues with its unique design.

Thanks to the inner nylon core used in the tubing to absorb sound, the high-velocity Unico System turns on and blows air virtually silently. In fact, many custom homeowners describe it as “whisper quiet.” Your buyer will be able to feel comfortable, even temperatures without hearing the system running.

In terms of aesthetics, The Unico System makes it easy for ducts to fit in with interior design. There are a wide variety of outlet choices that will blend in with a custom home’s floors, walls, and ceilings while providing even heating, cooling, and ventilation throughout each room.

Energy Efficiency

Buyers of custom homes want energy-efficient HVAC systems since they’re more likely to save on monthly utility costs. But what they may not realize is having the right ductwork makes a huge difference. Many traditional HVAC systems leak air in the seams along the vent and inside the ductwork. Plus, traditional ducts are uninsulated, resulting in thermal loss before air even reaches the vents. This causes the custom home to be less energy-efficient despite the energy-efficiency of the HVAC system itself.

The SDHV Unico System was specifically designed for simplicity and keeping air inside the ducts to prevent leakage. According to third-party testing, traditional HVAC systems can lose up to 25% of the air they put out because of leaks in the ductwork. The Unico System loses, on average, just 5%.

Impress Custom Home Buyers with The Unico System

The Unico System has everything buyers are looking for in a custom home HVAC system. But our support for your projects doesn’t stop with an SDHV product. Our Design Services team is a free resource that will help you find the best application for our system. Give buyers of custom homes the comfort and efficiency they’re looking for with The Unico System.

The post Three Things Buyers Want from Their Custom Home HVAC appeared first on The Unico System.