For decades, comfort in a home meant one thing: temperature.

But in 2026, that definition has evolved.

Homeowners are no longer satisfied with simply being warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They want cleaner air, balanced humidity, and a healthier indoor environment. In other words, indoor air quality (IAQ) has become the new standard of luxury.

And HVAC systems are at the center of that shift.

Why Indoor Air Quality Is a Top Priority

Several major trends are driving the surge in IAQ demand.

Increased Awareness of Health and Wellness

Homeowners are more informed than ever about how indoor air affects allergies, asthma, sleep quality, respiratory health, and overall well-being. With people spending up to 90 percent of their time indoors, the quality of that air matters more than ever.

Tighter Homes and Poorer Ventilation

Modern homes are built to be energy efficient, which often means they are tightly sealed.

While that reduces energy loss, it also traps pollutants indoors, limits fresh air exchange, and increases humidity issues. Without the right HVAC system, air can quickly become stale and unhealthy.

Rising Demand for Whole-Home Comfort

Today’s homeowners are thinking beyond single-room solutions. They want even temperatures throughout the home, consistent humidity control, and clean, filtered air in every space.

This shift is pushing HVAC systems to do more than ever before.

What Poor IAQ Actually Looks Like

Many homeowners do not realize they have an air quality problem.

Common signs include hot and cold spots, excess humidity or dryness, persistent dust, musty odors, and worsening allergy symptoms.

These are not just inconveniences. They are indicators that the HVAC system is not properly managing airflow and air quality.

How HVAC Systems Impact Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system is more than just heating and cooling. It is the lungs of your home.

A well-designed system should continuously circulate air, remove excess humidity, filter out pollutants, and deliver fresh, evenly distributed air.

But not all systems are created equal.

Why High-Velocity HVAC Systems Are Changing the IAQ Conversation

This is where systems like The Unico System stand out.

Unlike traditional HVAC systems that rely on large ducts and slow airflow, The Unico System uses small ducts and aspiration technology to deliver air more effectively.

Key advantages include superior dehumidification that helps prevent mold growth, musty odors, and sticky indoor environments. Even air distribution eliminates hot and cold spots and reduces stagnant air pockets. Continuous air movement helps reduce dust, allergens, and pollutants. Air is delivered quietly and evenly, creating a more comfortable environment without noticeable airflow.

IAQ Upgrades Homeowners Are Investing In

Alongside advanced HVAC systems, homeowners are increasingly adding high-efficiency air filtration, UV air purification systems, whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers, energy recovery ventilators and heat recovery ventilators, and smart IAQ monitoring systems.

These technologies work best when paired with a system designed to properly move and condition air throughout the home.

As indoor air quality becomes a greater priority, ventilation is also gaining attention. Energy recovery ventilators and heat recovery ventilators are designed to bring fresh outdoor air into the home while exhausting stale indoor air without sacrificing energy efficiency.

They introduce fresh, oxygen-rich air into tightly sealed homes, remove stale air and indoor pollutants, help maintain balanced humidity levels, and improve overall indoor air freshness and comfort.

In today’s energy-efficient homes, where natural ventilation is limited, these systems play a critical role in maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

Ventilation systems are most effective when paired with an HVAC system that can properly distribute and condition that fresh air. By combining fresh air ventilation with advanced air distribution, humidity control, and filtration, homeowners get a complete indoor air quality solution instead of isolated upgrades.

The Unico System pairs with all major ERV and HRV brands, giving contractors and homeowners flexibility while ensuring the entire system works together seamlessly.

IAQ as a Luxury Feature in Modern Homes

What used to be considered extra is quickly becoming expected, especially in custom homes, renovations, and high-end residential builds.

Indoor air quality is now viewed the same way as high-end finishes, smart home technology, and energy efficiency. It is not just about comfort. It is about quality of life.

The Bottom Line

In 2026, HVAC is no longer just about temperature. It is about creating a healthier indoor environment.

Homeowners who invest in better indoor air quality are not just improving comfort. They are investing in their long-term well-being.

And the systems that can deliver quiet, consistent, and clean air throughout the home are leading the way forward.

The post Indoor Air Quality Is the New Luxury: Why Homeowners Are Prioritizing IAQ in 2026 appeared first on The Unico System.

In part two of our HVAC replacement series, we’re going to identify the signs that it is time to replace a mini split system and some of the best upgrade options to consider.

When is it Time to Replace a Mini Split HVAC System?

Mini split systems have units that attach to a wall or window to condition the room. While it allows precise heating and cooling, mini splits require a unit present in each space that needs to be temperature controlled. Each unit requires routine maintenance, which can add up quickly. In fact, one of the key signs that a mini split system needs to be replaced is increasingly frequent breakdowns and repairs. Since mini split units can be costly to fix, it’s important to weigh those repairs against the cost of upgrading to a better HVAC system.

Other signs to look for include:

• Having an Older System: The lifespan of mini split systems averages 10 to 15 years. Any unit past this window will likely need to be replaced.
• Rising Energy Costs: If your mini split unit isn’t conditioning your home air efficiently, your monthly energy bills can increase. It’s a sign that the system needs to run more often to keep up with the temperature set by the thermostat.
• Units Making Noise: Usually, mini split systems are quiet while they’re conditioning rooms. If you hear any part of the system making noise, it’s a sign that it could be damaged.

Why You Should Choose The Unico System to Replace a Mini Split System

One of the biggest disadvantages of a mini split system is how the appearance of indoor units clash with the interior. Even when these units are designed to have a low visual impact, they still stick out. With The Unico System, you won’t have to worry about this issue. The air outlet vents are designed to match the décor of almost any home. The vents can be painted or stained to match a variety of interior design styles from modern homes to log cabins. Since The Unico System ducts are small, they can be installed into the floor, ceiling, and even sidewalls.

Get Better Indoor Air Quality for Your Home

Most mini split HVAC systems feature a reusable filter that operates within each individual unit. Since these filters need to be small to fit inside the system, they provide less air filtration when compared to The Unico System. They also need to be cleaned or replaced more often, adding to more ongoing HVAC maintenance.

Air filters for HVAC systems often have a MERV rating. A higher rating means there’s more air restriction to help the filter and capture smaller particles. Mini split systems are often not designed or compatible with high MERV-rated filters. Thanks to its small-duct, high-velocity design, The Unico System can easily handle the high-pressure drops caused by air restrictions, which is why it can be outfitted with MERV 13 filters, offering exceptional protection against airborne particulates.

Since the ducts are smaller with The Unico System, it’s easier to incorporate a UV light cabinet into the system to help disinfect the air that circulates through your home. This offers peace of mind by reducing airborne bacteria and improves your overall indoor air quality.

Optimal Comfort While Being Whisper Quiet

Since there are individual units in every room, mini split systems have zone control. However, they cannot reach the same level of temperature control as The Unico System. Each mini split unit dumps air into a room and often causes uneven temperatures since the system has less power dedicated to circulating air. You do not run into this issue with The Unico System. Through an air principle called aspiration, the ducts create a suction that pulls air around the room into its stream of air. This creates a temperature differential of no more than two to three degrees from what your thermostat is set to.

Every HVAC system, including mini split units, makes noise while running. Even though mini split units are quieter than a traditional system, most of them are not insulated like The Unico System. The Unico air supply tubing uses a nylon inner core that is designed to absorb noise caused by air moving through the system. Even the air handler is designed to isolate noise and vibration to help ensure the entire system stays quiet. It works so effectively that you won’t even notice The Unico System running.

Upgrade Your Home HVAC with The Unico System

By replacing a mini split HVAC system, you could make your home more comfortable, energy efficient, and improve indoor air quality. Find a Unico Preferred Contractor near you to get the process started.

Photo Credit: Mike Casey, This Old House

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Are you ready to learn about how to keep your duct system running in good shape? In this blog, we will look at five essential tips to help you with air duct maintenance.

1. Make Sure Duct Leaks Are Sealed
Did you know that air leaking through ducts is one of the top causes of wasted energy in homes? Over time, the joints in many air ducts can become loose or get damaged, which causes air to leak out. Every leak in your ductwork makes it harder for your home’s HVAC unit to do its job. Plus, leaking air ducts can increase your monthly energy bills, cause more temperature variation, and lead to air quality issues.

How do you make sure your air ducts are sealed? It’s recommended to get a professional HVAC technician to perform an inspection at least once a year. They’ll be able to test for air leaks and even run a camera through your ducts to check for any damage or issues.

2. Keep the Vents and Ducts Clear
If you’ve noticed that certain rooms in your house are at a different temperature, this duct maintenance tip can help. Take a close look at all the vents and/or ducts around your house. Are there any obstructions like a piece of furniture, a floor rug or décor that’s blocking the flow of air? If part of the duct is blocked, it’s putting an added strain on the blower fan within the HVAC system. This not only causes the system to be less efficient, but it increases the risk of the blower within the unit having a shorter lifespan.

The easiest fix is to move any obstruction away from the duct so that the air can flow more freely. This will sometimes require rearranging furniture and décor, but it’s worth it for the efficiency of your HVAC unit.

3. Clean Your Home’s Ducts to Get Rid of Debris
Duct maintenance plays a direct role in the indoor air quality of your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outside air. One of the main causes behind this statistic is that dust and debris often accumulate in air ducts. High levels of dust, mold, and mildew often cause damage to air ducts over time and negatively impact indoor air quality.

At least once a year, you’ll want to schedule an air duct cleaning. Professional HVAC technicians use specialized equipment that uses negative pressure to break up dust and debris so it can then be cleaned up with a powerful vacuum.

4. Wash or Replace the Air Duct Vent Covers
Whether you have your air ducts cleaned by a professional or tackle it yourself, check the vent covers. Oftentimes vent covers need to be thoroughly cleaned or replaced. One of the easiest ways to clean your vent covers is to wash them. Unscrew the vent cover and let it soak in a soapy solution. Then, take a microfiber cloth and scrub off any dust or debris. The process of cleaning your vent covers regularly will improve the indoor air quality of your home.

5. Replace Your Air Filter
Even after the air ducts inside your home are cleaned, you won’t get the full benefit unless you’re keeping up with changing the air filter. A great tip is to also make sure that you’re using the most efficient filter for the specific HVAC system in your home. One of the easiest ways to check is to look at the model number on your system. The manufacturer will have a recommended filter that works best with the system. HVAC experts also say that you should replace the air filter for your system once a month for the best performance.

Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality with The Unico System

The Unico System can keep your home comfortable, is more energy efficient than traditional HVAC systems, and improves indoor air quality. It’s a small-duct, high-velocity system that has the most effective air distribution of any HVAC system. Plus, the system can be upgraded to use UV light to disinfect the air entering your home.

Find out how The Unico System can make your home more comfortable and energy efficient. Contact our Design Services team for a free system design layout today.

The post 5 Tips to Help You with Duct Maintenance 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 good news is that the next time your HVAC system blows hot air, there are steps you can take to figure out what’s wrong. Join the heating and cooling experts at The Unico System as we break down five helpful tips to fix your air conditioning.

1. Make Sure to Change Your Air Filter

If your HVAC unit is blowing hot air, the first thing you should do is check the air filter. AC systems need to have a free-flowing supply of air. Dirty filters limit this flow, causing a strain on the system until it reaches the point where it can’t keep up. It’s crucial to check the air filter at least once a month to see if dust or debris is causing a clog.

On average, you should replace your HVAC air filter every six months. If the air filter is dark grey or you can’t see through the filter at all, it’s time to swap it out for a new one. To ensure you’re using the right filter, check with the HVAC manufacturer to see what’s recommended for the system.

2. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Certain thermostat settings can increase the chances of warm air being circulated through the HVAC system. For many modern thermostats, the “auto” setting can mitigate this. The auto setting allows the fan to push the air through the home when the air conditioner is in a cooling cycle. If your thermostat’s “fan” setting is “on,” it will run all the time – which makes the air feel warm.

3. Defrost the Evaporator Coils in the HVAC Unit

HVAC systems have a condensate drain specially designed to collect the excess moisture while the air conditioning runs. If that drain is clogged, the moisture on the evaporator coils can freeze. When this happens, the blower inside the system overheats, causing the air to get warmer. To fix this, turn the HVAC unit off, clean out the condensate drain, and give the coils time to defrost.

4. Seal Any Leaks in the Ductwork

For homes with traditional wide ducts, it’s common for cracks and holes to develop in these systems over time – thus causing air to leak into the walls. Since older ducts are often put in unconditioned attic spaces, warmer air finds its way in and gets carried throughout the entire HVAC system. To solve this issue, you’ll need to work with an HVAC technician to identify and seal the leaks.

However, upgrading to The Unico System makes this fix far less complicated. Unico’s small-duct system uses insulated nylon ducts that are 100% airtight.

5. Consider Replacing Your HVAC System

If you keep running into issues with your HVAC unit or notice it’s blowing warm air more often, it’s time to consider replacing the unit. Many older air conditioning systems also use freon, which corrodes metal, leaking out and damaging the system. The good news is that you can avoid expensive repairs and make your home more comfortable by upgrading to the right HVAC system.

Find a Unico Preferred Contractor Near You

The Unico System was designed to give you the comfort and efficiency of central air conditioning without any hassle. With small, fully insulated ducts and the flexibility to integrate with smart home thermostats, there’s no better choice for upgrading your HVAC system.

Learn more about how The Unico System can improve the comfort of your home by finding a
preferred contactor near you today!

The post Why is My HVAC Unit Blowing Hot Air appeared first on The Unico System.

Air filters, like the ones found in HVAC systems, remove allergens from the air and improve the air quality of the home. Join the experts at Unico as we talk about how allergies are impacted by air filters and the importance of choosing the right HVAC system.

The Different Types of Air Filters and Their Impact on Allergies

In general, air filters remove many types of allergens in your home by catching particles in the air like pet dander, dust, pollen, and more. For example, the air filter inside of an HVAC system traps even larger particles so there are fewer allergy irritants in the air. It also works hard to prevent dust and other debris from building up in the system itself so that it can continue to work at optimal efficiency.

When it comes to air filters that can help with allergies, there are some common types:

• Fiberglass Filters:

Fiberglass air filters are affordable and are made from thin spun strands of fiberglass that are woven together. These types of filters may not be the best option since many baseline models are not made to trap smaller allergen particles because of its smaller surface area.

• Pleated Filters:

These air filters are most commonly made out polyester fabric and cotton folds. Their large surface helps capture more allergens and these filters come in high- efficiency options that focus on trapping smaller particles. It’s worth mentioning that pleated filters might need to be replaced more often than some other air filters because of the dirt, dust and allergens that are trapped.

• HEPA Filters:

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are often used to help with allergies because they are able to trap the most small particles of allergy irritants in the air—many of which are too small to see at 0.3 microns, but can still enter the body.

How MERV Rating Plays into Allergies and Air Filters

Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV, ratings are used to assess how effective air filters are at removing particles and allergens from the air. As we hinted above, a high MERV rating means the filter can trap smaller particles. MERV ratings range from 1 to 16, with higher ratings representing more effective filtration. For example, environments like surgery suites in hospitals or laboratories where pharmaceuticals are manufactured need a very high MERV rating. That’s because a few small particles have the potential to cause significant harm in sensitive environments.

To filter out many common smaller allergens that can cause issues, it’s recommended to have an air filter with a MERV rating between 9 and 13. These higher MERV ratings make it less likely for particles to enter the home and trigger your allergies. However, in order to choose the right air filter for your home, it’s important to consider more than just a MERV rating. Think about:

• The filter MERV rating that’s approved for your HVAC system.

• The balance between higher levels of filtration and reducing air flow.

• What size filter is needed for the most efficient performance.

Air Filter Maintenance and Allergies

No matter what type of air filter an HVAC system uses, it needs to be maintained and changed regularly. When an air filter is dirty, it becomes clogged, and all the allergens it’s collected will start to circulate back into the home. Over time, this will lower the air quality in your home and can make allergies worse.

The air filter in your HVAC system should be replaced every 60 to 90 days. And roughly every three to six months, you’ll want to have your HVAC system inspected by an HVAC professional to make sure everything is running optimally.

Help Your Allergies and Get Better Indoor Air Quality with The Unico System

If indoor air quality and reducing the number of allergens in your home is important to you, The Unico System is the best option. Unico is a small-duct high-velocity system that offers effective air distribution and an option for MERV 13 filters. Find a Unico contractor near you to learn more about the benefits it can bring to your home.

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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.

The Problems with Conventional Systems

Winter brings dry air, which can be tough on your skin. Plus, it dries out your nose, which makes you susceptible to viruses and other contagions. A gas furnace makes these conditions worse because the flame used to heat the air eliminates the moisture. Unico uses electric heat, which doesn’t consume oxygen or remove moisture from the air.

Traditional, metal ducts leak air through gaps at the seams, causing heat and air loss, which is a major waste of energy. Homes with traditional ductwork lose up to 60% of their heated air before it reaches the register.

The Unico mini duct system are designed to prevent thermal loss. The tubes are built with a nylon core, which is then wrapped with insulation, and finally wrapped with an outer vapor barrier to stop moisture from entering or exiting the air stream. Also, The Unico System uses a lock-and-release connector that clicks into place, giving Unico an airtight fit.

Why Unico is Better Than Conventional Ducting

Ever hear the heating or air kick on? When the furnace or AC unit blasts air through a home with traditional ducts, it causes vibration, which generates noise and echoes through the metal ducting. Owners of The Unico System don’t even hear it running, thanks to the sound attenuators, which prevent vibration, and the nylon insulated core that absorbs noise.

Nobody wants their HVAC system taking up living space. If you’re renovating an older house, wouldn’t you want ducting that you can hide away inside existing walls and ceilings? Adding a traditional system during a home renovation often requires adding soffits or dropped ceilings to hide the ducting. But mini ducts are made of flexible tubing, which can be threaded through the ceiling and maintain the home’s interior design.

New custom home builders also prefer Unico for its compact design. Builders of custom homes design beautiful interiors to satisfy homeowners’ personal styles. A mini duct system is perfectly designed to feature the architecture and not the HVAC.

The Best HVAC System Available

You want home heating and air conditioning that creates a comfortable environment that’s energy efficient, quiet and unobtrusive. That’s not too much to ask, and Unico delivers!

What to learn more about whether the Unico System is right for you? Find a local contractor to learn more

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Join the air-quality experts from the Unico team as we break down some of the biggest lessons the pandemic taught us about indoor air quality in custom homes and how you can address them.

How Ventilation Impacts Air Quality in Custom Homes

If you’re looking to improve indoor air quality of a custom home, getting proper ventilation is a must. Since many newer homes are built to low load home (LLH) standards, there’s a tighter seal on airflow. During the pandemic, this fact made the housing industry realize that mechanical ventilation was important to improve indoor air quality in custom homes. Mechanical ventilation improves air quality by diluting the indoor air with “fresh” air from the outside.

Covid-19 and other viruses have a harder time surviving outside due to the sheer volume of clean air they are exposed to. That’s why diluting and filtering indoor air helps minimize the risk of aerosolized viruses being transmitted inside of a home. While the idea makes sense on paper, some custom home ventilation systems only operate at one speed.

The Unico System has a variable speed blower that includes unique control features to ventilate custom homes effectively and efficiently throughout the day. Plus, the system can be easily programmed to meet any unique needs, such as bringing in more outdoor air if indoor air quality drops to an uncomfortable level.

Why Air Filtration in Custom Homes Became More Important

During the pandemic, people spent more time indoors, which led to our immune systems being weaker than normal. Dust, pollen, and bacteria now pose more of a threat to cause illness than in the past. This is part of the reason why the air-filter industry saw such a huge boom during the pandemic. Let’s break down why that was the case.

Ventilation is great at helping prevent viruses because of how it dilutes the air. However, larger particles are harder to remove using only this process. This is where air filtration comes into play. While there is a wide variety of air filters, many traditional HVAC systems come standard with filters that are only designed to help keep the system clean. Plus, the blowers in those systems can’t deal with the restrictions that are present in higher MERV-grade filters used to keep pollutants out of the home.

Learn more about MERV-grade filters and the benefits they provide with The Unico System HERE

The good news is that small-duct high velocity (SDHV) systems like The Unico System are designed to deal with high-pressure drops and use higher-grade filters. The Unico System uses MERV 7 filters, which capture a variety of contaminants, like mold spores, pet dander, and bacteria in custom homes.

Using UV Light for Air Disinfection in Custom Homes

For a long time, hospitals have been using UV light to disinfect surfaces and clean the air. The pandemic made homeowners realize that they could use this technology to help make their custom homes safer. It became popular to integrate UV light into standalone room filter systems for localized disinfection of air in a home through the HVAC system. These systems pull the air in a room into the device and expose it to UV light to improve indoor air quality.  This type of solution works great for a single room, but quickly becomes expensive if you want to integrate it into an entire custom home.

If you’re looking for a solution that can reliably provide whole-home air disinfection, it’s best to install the UV light directly into the duct system. The Unico System is an SDHV system that uses smaller ducts with higher air flow. Not only does this offer more installation flexibility for custom homes, but it also makes it easier to include UV light. Unico even offers cabinets with a pre-installed UV light system to give custom homes added peace of mind.

Custom Homes Are Safer with The Unico System

If you’re looking for the best all-around heating and cooling system for a custom home, choosing The Unico System is a smart choice. By improving indoor air quality with UV-light disinfection and having the installation flexibility of being an SDHV system, Unico is a great option for custom homes with unique design challenges.

Contact our Design Service team for a free consultation to learn more about how The Unico System can add cleaner air to your home.

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