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.

The post How Is The Unico System Made? Inside American HVAC Manufacturing appeared first on The Unico System.

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.

The post Why Proper HVAC Sizing Matters More Than System Capacity appeared first on The Unico System.

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.

The post American Made HVAC: Celebrating 250 Years of U.S. Innovation appeared first on The Unico System.

As energy costs continue to rise, more homeowners are searching for efficient ways to heat and cool their homes. One of the fastest-growing trends in HVAC is the adoption of heat pumps, which provide both heating and cooling from a single system while using less energy than many conventional options.

The benefits are clear. Heat pumps can improve efficiency, reduce utility bills, and provide year-round comfort. But choosing a heat pump is only part of the solution. Homeowners should also consider how conditioned air is delivered throughout the home.

Why HVAC Distribution Matters

Even the most advanced heat pump can struggle to provide consistent comfort if the air distribution system is not designed properly. Conventional ductwork can be difficult to install in older homes, historic properties, and renovation projects where space is limited.

Large ducts often require major construction, which can impact a home’s design, architectural details, and usable living space. They can also be inefficient. According to industry estimates, conventional duct systems can lose up to 40% of conditioned air through leaks, poor sealing, and heat transfer before it ever reaches the living spaces.

The Unico System was designed to minimize those losses. With its compact, tightly sealed duct system, air leakage is typically less than 5%, helping homeowners get more from their heating and cooling equipment while improving overall system efficiency and comfort.

Pairing Heat Pumps with The Unico System

The Unico System offers a flexible alternative for homes where conventional ductwork is not practical. Its small, flexible ducts can be routed through existing walls, ceilings, and other tight spaces with minimal disruption.

When paired with a heat pump, The Unico System helps homeowners enjoy the efficiency of modern HVAC technology while maintaining the character of their home. The system also delivers even temperatures throughout the living space and provides excellent humidity control, helping create a more comfortable indoor environment.

Ideal for Any Home Type

Every home has unique heating and cooling challenges. Older homes may have limited space for ductwork, historic homes often require preservation of architectural details, and custom homes frequently prioritize design flexibility. The Unico System adapts to these needs, providing an efficient comfort solution without the space requirements of conventional ductwork.

The Future of Home Comfort

As heat pump adoption continues to grow, homeowners are looking for solutions that combine efficiency, flexibility, and comfort. By pairing a heat pump with The Unico System, homeowners can achieve all three while avoiding the limitations of conventional ductwork.

If you’re exploring heat pump options for a renovation, historic home, or custom home project, the right air distribution system can make all the difference.

Find a Unico Preferred Contractor near you or contact our team to learn more about bringing The Unico System into your next project.

The post Heat Pumps Are Growing in Popularity: Why the Right HVAC System Matters appeared first on The Unico System.

Humidity can quietly damage historic documents, furnishings, finishes, and artifacts long before structural issues become apparent.

That was the challenge facing the Harry S. Truman Little White House in Key West.

The Challenge at the Truman Little White House

Built in 1890, the Truman Little White House remains one of the most historically significant properties in Florida. Before installing The Unico System, the home struggled with excessive humidity that was beginning to impact historic documents and artifacts connected to President Truman’s legacy.

Like many historic buildings, the property was never designed to accommodate modern HVAC systems. Installing conventional ductwork would have required invasive structural modifications that could compromise the building’s historic integrity.

The challenge was clear: how do you improve indoor comfort and humidity control without disrupting the architecture that makes the building historically important?

Why Humidity Control Matters in Historic Preservation

In historic properties, humidity is more than a comfort issue. It is a preservation issue.

Poor humidity control can damage historic documents and photographs, warp wood furnishings and finishes, deteriorate plaster and architectural materials, and contribute to mold growth and long-term structural issues.

For museums, historic homes, and preservation projects, maintaining stable indoor conditions is essential to protecting both the building and the artifacts inside it.

The Unico System Solution

To solve the problem, the Truman Little White House installed The Unico System, a small-duct, high-velocity HVAC solution designed specifically for retrofit applications and historic homes.

Because of its compact and flexible design, The Unico System was able to minimize disruption to the historic structure, conceal system components within existing spaces, deliver enhanced humidity control, and preserve the architectural integrity of the home.

Unlike conventional HVAC systems that require large ductwork and major structural changes, The Unico System integrates into older buildings with minimal visual impact.

The result was improved indoor comfort and humidity control while helping protect the historic documents and artifacts housed within the property.

HVAC Plays a Critical Role in Preservation

Historic preservation is not just about protecting buildings from visible deterioration. It is also about creating stable indoor environments that help preserve the history inside them.

That is why HVAC system design matters in historic renovation projects.

The right system can help protect sensitive materials and collections, improve comfort for occupants and visitors, preserve architectural details, and reduce the need for invasive structural changes.

For historic buildings where preservation and performance must work together, retrofit-friendly solutions like The Unico System provide a practical path forward.

Learn More

Read the full Truman Little White House case study to see how The Unico System helped protect one of America’s historic properties while preserving its architectural integrity.

https://unicosystem.com/case-study/truman-white-house/

The post How HVAC Can Help Protect Historic Buildings and the History Inside Them appeared first on The Unico System.

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.

When it comes to specifying or installing a high-performance HVAC system, misconceptions can slow projects down or lead to missed opportunities. That’s especially true with The Unico System, a high-velocity HVAC solution that works differently than traditional systems.

To clear things up, we spoke with Joe, a Customer Service Representative at Unico, Inc., who has been with the company since 2011. From working on the factory floor to supporting professionals in the field, Joe has seen firsthand the most common questions and myths surrounding The Unico System.

Here’s what he had to say.

Myth #1: The Unico System Can’t Be Zoned

One of the first questions Joe hears from contractors and builders is about zoning.

The truth: The Unico System can absolutely be zoned, with up to three zones per system.

For homeowners, that means better temperature control in different areas of the home. For professionals, it opens up more flexibility when designing comfort solutions for custom builds and retrofits.

Myth #2: High-Velocity HVAC Systems Are Noisy

Noise is a common concern, especially from homeowners who may not be familiar with high-velocity systems.

The truth: When installed correctly by a Unico Preferred Contractor, The Unico System is whisper-quiet.

Proper design and installation are key. With the right approach, the system delivers strong performance without disruptive noise often associated with older HVAC technologies.

Myth #3: It Works Just Like Traditional HVAC

Many building professionals assume installing The Unico System is similar to conventional HVAC systems.

The reality: It operates differently and more efficiently in key ways.

One major difference is the colder evaporator coil, which allows the system to remove up to 30% more humidity from the air.

That means:

• Improved indoor comfort
• Better moisture control
• A more pleasant living environment, especially in humid climates

Myth #4: Airflow Needs to Match Conventional Systems

Another common misconception is that airflow requirements are the same as traditional systems.

The truth: The Unico System uses 250 CFM per ton, compared to 400 CFM per ton in conventional HVAC.

This difference means:

• No need to oversize trunk lines
• More efficient air delivery
• Greater flexibility in tight or retrofit space

Myth #5: Product Options Are Limited

Even experienced professionals are sometimes surprised by available configurations.

Joe puts it simply:

“Yes, we do make a right-hand discharge unit.”

Understanding the full range of system options can make installation easier and help solve design challenges on complex projects.

Why It Pays to Understand The Unico System

After more than a decade of experience, Joe’s advice is straightforward:

The better you understand how The Unico System works, the better results you will deliver.

Partnering with a Unico Preferred Contractor ensures the system is installed and configured properly, maximizing comfort, efficiency, and performance.

Take Your Knowledge Further with Unico University

For professionals looking to deepen their expertise, Unico University provides:

· Product education and system design insights

· Installation best practices

· Training resources built for real-world applications

Whether you are new to The Unico System or looking to refine your skills, these programs help you deliver better outcomes for your clients.

The Unico System is not just another HVAC option. It is a different approach to comfort. And like any specialized system, understanding how it works is the key to unlocking its full potential.

By separating myth from reality, contractors, architects, and builders can confidently specify and install a system that delivers quiet operation, superior humidity control, and flexible design.

The post The Unico System MythBusters: What Contractors, Architects, and Builders Need to Know appeared first on The Unico System.

Ventilation is one of the oldest and most effective ways to improve IAQ. Simply put, it dilutes indoor air with fresh outdoor air. However, it is not as simple as opening a window. Outdoor air can introduce pollutants like pollen, smoke, and humidity, and it can increase heating and cooling costs. On the other hand, too little ventilation allows indoor pollutants such as carbon dioxide to build up. The key is balance.

That balance is defined by ASHRAE standard 62.2 for residential homes, which help determine how much ventilation a building needs based on size, occupancy, climate, and construction. While many older homes rely on natural air leakage, newer renovated homes are much tighter and often require ventilation to maintain healthy air.

Mechanical ventilation systems bring in controlled amounts of fresh air using ducts and fans, often integrated directly with the HVAC system. In central air systems, this can be as simple as adding a filtered outside air return with proper dampers and controls. More advanced options, such as Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) or Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs), improve efficiency by transferring heat and, in the case of ERVs, humidity between incoming and outgoing air, helping reduce energy costs.

The Unico System is designed to make this integration simple and effective. Its variable speed blower includes built-in control features that can automatically operate the blower, activate an ERV or HRV, or open a ventilation damper as needed. This flexibility allows ventilation to be programmed to meet the specific needs of the home while complying with ASHRAE 62.2 residential ventilation standards.

Integrating ventilation into your HVAC system is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve IAQ while maintaining comfort and efficiency. With proper design, professional guidance, and adherence to ASHRAE standards, homeowners can achieve cleaner air, balanced ventilation, and energy smart performance supporting a healthier indoor environment.

The post Smarter Ventilation Starts with the Right System appeared first on The Unico System.

Based in the Midlands, Unico System UK received the award for Unico SDHV Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation System, recognizing innovation in both product design and the way the system is being applied in the UK market.

Richard Soper, Managing Director of The Unico System UK, shared his thoughts on the win:

“This is great step for Unico and our partners Bell Plumbing Supply in the UK. A big thank you to all our teams in the USA and UK. It was a very proud moment to be the representative to receive this award on behalf of the team.”

The Built It Awards, in association with BuildStore, are among the most respected accolades in the self-build and renovation industry. With rigorous and impartial judging, the awards provide real credibility for winners and highlight the most forward-thinking innovations in the sector.

Unico’s journey in the UK began in the early 2000s, with a clear goal of introducing a small-duct, high-velocity HVAC system that could meet the unique needs of British homes. Over the years, the UK branch has steadily expanded its presence, building strong partnerships and adapting its technology to support both new build and renovation projects.

That long-term commitment has brought major rewards in recent years, as demand continues to grow for energy-efficient systems that can work alongside renewable technologies and help support the UK’s move towards low-carbon housing.

Scott Intagliata, Owner and CMO at Unico, Inc., states, “When our company decided to invest in growing our product in the UK, our research and observations were that our product would suit the British self-build market perfectly. With this award, those thoughts are fully confirmed. Along with our managing director in the UK, Richard Soper and our master distributor Renewable Energy Waehouse, we are delighted to receive this award and look forward to a bright future in Britain.”

This recognition reinforces Unico’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, energy-efficient comfort solutions for the UK market. As homeowners and developers look for flexible systems that combine performance, sustainability, and comfort, The Unico System continues to stand out.

For Unico System UK, this award is not only a celebration of innovation, but also an important milestone in its ongoing mission to transform home comfort through modern, renewable-ready HVAC solutions.

The post Award-Winning Innovations from Unico System UK appeared first on The Unico System.

To give you an inside look, we sat down with Shreya, a member of our design and engineering team, to talk about what this service includes and how it helps contractors deliver better installations.

Q: Shreya, can you start by explaining what your role is on the design team?

Shreya: Absolutely. On the design team, my role sits at the intersection of load calculations, duct design, and system optimization. I work closely with architects, builders, and contractors to translate the building design into a fully engineered HVAC solution that actually performs as intended. That includes reviewing construction details, verifying assumptions, performing accurate load calculations, and designing duct layouts that align with both the equipment and the structure. The goal is to make sure what gets installed in the field is efficient, comfortable, and realistic to build.

Q: Why is duct design still such a critical part of an HVAC install?

Shreya: Even the best HVAC equipment will underperform if the duct system isn’t designed correctly. Duct design directly affects airflow, static pressure, comfort, noise levels, and overall system efficiency. Poorly designed ducts can lead to hot and cold spots, higher energy use, and premature equipment wear. Especially with high-performance homes and high-velocity systems, duct design isn’t just a layout exercise but an engineering requirement

Q: Who typically takes advantage of this service?

Shreya: This service is most often used by builders, HVAC contractors, and designers working on custom homes, high-performance residences, renovations, modular homes, historic homes or projects with tighter architectural constraints. It’s also valuable for professionals who want an extra layer of verification before installation whether they’re dealing with complex floor plans, challenging ceiling conditions, or strict energy and comfort expectations from clients.

Q: What does the process look like for a professional?

Shreya: The process usually starts with reviewing architectural drawings and gathering key project details such as location, construction assemblies, and design intent. From there, accurate load calculations are performed, followed by system selection and detailed duct design. Throughout the process, coordination is key while questions are addressed early, assumptions are clarified, and the design is adjusted to suit real-world installation conditions. The final deliverables are clear, contractor-friendly, and ready to be implemented in the field.

Q: What’s one of the biggest advantages of using this kind of support?

Shreya: One of the biggest advantages is confidence. Having engineered support behind the design reduces guesswork, minimizes callbacks, and helps ensure the system will perform as expected once installed. It saves time during installation, avoids costly corrections later, and ultimately delivers better comfort for the homeowner. From an engineering standpoint, it also ensures the system is sized and designed based on actual building behavior not just rules of thumb.

Our free duct design service is here to support HVAC professionals with accurate, reliable layouts that help streamline installations and improve long-term system performance.

Whether you’re working on a new build, retrofit, or multi-zone project, Shreya and our design team are ready to help.

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