The Perfect Solution for Spot Cooling: The Unico System’s UniSpot

The Perfect Solution for Spot Cooling: The Unico System’s UniSpot

When it comes to maintaining comfort in specific areas of a home or workspace, traditional cooling systems often fall short. They either overcool an entire area, leading to energy wastage or fail to provide adequate cooling exactly where it’s needed. Enter the Unico System’s UniSpot—a revolutionary solution designed specifically for spot cooling.

What is Spot Cooling?

Spot cooling is a targeted cooling approach where specific areas or even individuals are cooled without cooling the entire space. Whether it’s an assembly plant or shipping warehouse, ensuring your workers’ safety is paramount when the indoor temperatures soar higher than outside.

Rely on UniSpot by The Unico System, a cutting-edge high-efficiency cooling and heating solution designed to provide effective climate control for your employees’ workspace. With effective cooling targeted at individual workstations, enhance safety and comfort for your workforce with Industrial Spot Cooling by Unico.

The UniSpot Advantage

The UniSpot by Unico System takes spot cooling to the next level. Unlike traditional systems that cool the entire space, the UniSpot is engineered to deliver cooling precisely where it’s needed—directly to the person or area requiring it. Here’s why UniSpot stands out:

  • Targeted Comfort: UniSpot focuses on cooling the worker, not the entire space. This ensures that comfort is maintained without overburdening the HVAC system or increasing energy costs.
  • Energy Efficiency: By directing cool air only where it’s necessary, UniSpot significantly reduces energy consumption. This not only lowers utility bills but also contributes to a more sustainable environment.
  • Fresh Air, Is Better: With Spot Cooling, you’re not just battling heat; you’re ensuring your workforce breathes in clean, fresh air. Our systems incorporate advanced filtration, promoting a healthier working environment.
  • Enhanced Productivity: In work environments, keeping employees comfortable is key to maintaining productivity. UniSpot provides consistent, localized cooling, ensuring that workers remain cool and focused, even in areas with poor ventilation or high heat output.
  • Affordability Redefined: Cooling your entire workplace can be expensive, but Spot Cooling changes the game. With Unico, you can cool up to 12 workstations with one unit. By cooling the worker, not the entire workspace, you achieve comfort for a fraction of the cost compared to traditional HVAC solutions. Experience significant savings without compromising your employees’ comfort.
  • Free Custom Design for Every Project: Our Design Services team will provide your free system design. Submit your floor plans, and we’ll customize a system to fit your designs.

 

Why Choose the Unico System?

The Unico System has long been recognized for its ability to provide high-velocity, efficient heating and cooling solutions, particularly in older homes with unique architectural challenges. The addition of UniSpot to the Unico lineup enhances this reputation by offering a specialized solution that addresses the limitations of traditional cooling methods in commercial spaces.

 

Conclusion

Whether you’re dealing with a workspace with variable occupancy, or simply looking to enhance comfort without cooling an entire space, the UniSpot from the Unico System is the perfect solution. Its ability to cool the worker, not the space, sets it apart as an energy-efficient, flexible, and effective spot cooling option. Consider the UniSpot for your next HVAC upgrade, and experience the difference targeted cooling can make.

Discover Training Opportunities at Unico, Inc.

Discover Training Opportunities at Unico, Inc.

Discover the Training Opportunities at Unico

At Unico, we empower our team members and partners through continuous learning and development. To support this mission, we offer diverse training opportunities designed to enhance skills, knowledge, and expertise. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, Unico’s training programs cater to all levels. Here’s an overview of the training opportunities we provide:

Factory Training

Our Factory Training program is designed for hands-on learners who benefit from in-person instruction. Held at our manufacturing plant in St. Louis, MO, this 2.5-day training course covers everything from the basics to advanced techniques in using and maintaining Unico Products. Participants can engage directly with our National Trainer, Matt Gordon, ask questions and receive personalized guidance. This immersive experience ensures attendees leave with a deep understanding and practical skills that can be immediately applied in their work. Upon completion of factory training, companies will be awarded our factory training badge, which helps potential customers find them on  Unico’s website .

Training Details:

  • When is this class offered? September through May on a select date of your choosing
  • Lodging: Unico will cover the cost of lodging
  • Meals: Lunch will be provided at the factory

Key Benefits:

  • Gain in-depth understanding of The Unico System
  • Learn best practices and installation techniques
  • Stay updated on the latest product innovations

Unico University is our comprehensive online training platform that houses a vast library of on-demand training videos. Available 24/7, this resource allows you to learn at your own pace and convenience. Whether you’re looking to master a specific skill, stay updated on the latest industry trends, or revisit fundamental concepts, Unico University has you covered. The platform is continually updated with new content, ensuring that you have access to the latest information and training materials. Upon completion of online factory training, companies will be awarded the online training badge which helps them be seen by potential customers on the Unico website before the competition.

Key Benefits:

  • Flexible scheduling, on-demand remote learning
  • Quick, easy to listen
  • Gain in-depth understanding of The Unico System
  • Stay updated on the latest product innovations

AIA Classes

We are proud to offer three AIA (American Institute of Architects) accredited classes tailored specifically for architects and design professionals. Our AIA classes are designed to enhance your professional knowledge and skills, ensuring that you stay current with industry standards and practices. These classes provide valuable continuing education credits and cover essential topics related to our industry. 

Indoor Air Quality Solutions for Small-Duct, High-Velocity Heating & Air Conditioning Systems  (1 LU|HSW Credit)

About This Course: This specialized course focuses on the unique aspects of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) management through the lens of Small-Duct High-Velocity (SDHV) Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems. Aimed at architects, the course provides in-depth knowledge on designing, installing, and maintaining SDHV systems to optimize indoor air quality. Participants will learn how SDHV technology can be leveraged to efficiently heat and cool spaces and significantly improve air purity, reduce pollutants, and enhance overall occupant comfort and health.

Prerequisite Knowledge: Participants must have basic knowledge of HVAC and how it works.

Air-To-Water Heat Pumps (1 LU Credit) 

About this course: This comprehensive Air-to-Water Heat Pump Systems course is designed to provide participants with a deep understanding of the principles, design considerations, and practical applications of air-to-water heat pump technology. As a key component of modern heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, air-to-water heat pumps are crucial in achieving energy efficiency and sustainable thermal comfort. This course covers various topics to ensure participants gain practical skills necessary for successful implementation.

Prerequisite Knowledge: Participants must have basic knowledge of HVAC and how it works.

Designing and Installing Small-Duct, High-Velocity Heating and Cooling System (1 LU Credit) 

About this course: In the Designing and Installing Small-Duct High-Velocity Heating and Cooling Systems course, you will learn about small-duct high-velocity systems and how they differ from  conventional HVAC systems. This course also teaches you about design flexibility, how to create a small-duct high-velocity design, and where the small-duct high-velocity system can be installed.

Prerequisite Knowledge: No prerequisite knowledge is required for this course.

Conclusion

At Unico, we are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning. Our training programs-Factory Training, Unico University, and AIA Classes- are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed. Take advantage of these opportunities to stay ahead in your business and become an expert in our products and services.The Unico System. Join us in our mission to achieve excellence through education and training.

For more information or to to enroll in our training programs, visit our website or contact our training department at [email protected]. We look forward to supporting your learning journey at Unico!

 

The Right HVAC Solution for Low-Load and Net Zero Homes

The Right HVAC Solution for Low-Load and Net Zero Homes

The Right HVAC Solution for Low-Load and Net Zero Homes

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%.

Unico System return air ducts

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

Why The Unico System is the Right Solution for Modular Homes

Why The Unico System is the Right Solution for Modular Homes

Why The Unico System is the Right HVAC Option for Modular Homes

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.

Unico outlets

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%.

Unico outlets with supply tubing

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.

HVAC Replacement Series Part 3: Your Guide to Replacing a SDHV HVAC System

HVAC Replacement Series Part 3: Your Guide to Replacing a SDHV HVAC System

Your Guide to Replacing a Small-Duct, High-Velocity HVAC System

In this final installment of our HVAC replacement series, we’re going to focus on small-duct, high-velocity (SDHV) systems. The Unico System is the leader in this HVAC technology. However, the SDHV system is a newer technology in the HVAC industry and knowing when a unit needs to be replaced isn’t always easy.

The Unico System is here to help. Let’s get into more detail about how to tell when it’s time to swap out an SDHV system and what options you should consider replacing it with.

When is it Time to Replace an SDHV HVAC System?

SDHV systems are known to have smaller outlets that are less noisy than traditional HVAC systems. With many traditional units, hearing the fan or motor straining to operate is a textbook sign that the system needs to be replaced. With SDHV systems, the replacement signs are often more subtle. You’ll want to be on the lookout for:

  • A Decline in Energy Efficiency: Small-duct, high-velocity HVAC systems have tight joints and insulated tubing for increased energy efficiency. If you notice that your home’s heating and cooling bill has increased, it could be a sign that the HVAC unit needs to be replaced. SDHV systems at the end of their life cycle are more likely to lose air velocity, making the whole unit work harder to keep rooms at an even temperature.
  • The Age of Your HVAC System: Even though SDHV units are efficient and provide optimal comfort, no system can last forever. Core elements of these systems, like the heat pump, blower coil and air handler, all have shelf lives. Many of the key components have estimated life spans provided by the manufacturer. If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it’s time to pay close attention to how it’s operating.
  • Longer Heating and Cooling Cycles: SDHV units don’t just dump air into rooms like traditional HVAC systems. The SDHV system has fairly uniform heating and cooling cycles. If you notice that these cycles have gotten longer, it’s a sign that the system isn’t running as efficiently—that the unit is struggling to keep up with the temperature set by the thermostat. If this issue persists, call a professional to inspect the system and see if you might need to replace it.

Why The Unico System is the Best Replacement Option for Small-Duct, High-Velocity HVAC Systems

Once you have the comfort and efficiency that a small-duct, high-velocity HVAC system provides, it’s hard to go back. Luckily, you won’t have that problem when choosing The Unico System as your HVAC solution. To create a draft-free environment with even temperatures, The Unico System takes advantage of a process called aspiration. The small, high-velocity ducts placed throughout each room create a gentle suction that draws air into their streams. You can expect a temperature differential no more than 2 degrees from what the thermostat is set to.

Unlike some other small-duct, high-velocity HVAC systems, Unico has a wide selection of outlet choices designed to match any décor. Unico outlets can also be painted or stained to perfectly match the interior design. Plus, the small outlets are less invasive and can be installed in ceilings, sidewalls and floors so that they’re hardly even noticeable.

Get Free Designs Services with The Unico System

When you’re replacing an existing SDHV system, Unico is here to do the hard part. When you submit plans to our Design Services team, they’ll figure out the best system configuration for your home and provide an estimated materials list. When it comes to indoor comfort, there’s no better HVAC option than The Unico System. Contact our Design Services team today to get started.