Unico’s in-house test lab supports compliance, performance, and trust. It verifies that HVAC systems meet Department of Energy requirements and industry standards from AHRI and ASHRAE.
The lab simulates indoor and outdoor conditions from 175°F down to -40°F. Unico uses these tests to earn accurate SEER, EER, and HSPF ratings.
The article says the HVAC industry is moving toward R-454B and R-32. These refrigerants are described as more environmentally friendly, but slightly flammable. That requires new safety protocols and equipment redesigns.
Unico uses Yokogawa and LabVIEW to collect and analyze performance data in real time. If something looks wrong, Justin Johnson said a technician is sent in right away.
The company is also moving toward full lab automation. By the end of the year, the lab is expected to run tests at the press of a button. The article says this will allow more tests, longer durations, less manual intervention, and expansion beyond a single shift.
Equipment tested at Unico is also verified by third-party labs such as Intertek and UL. The article says this gives customers confidence that the systems meet nationally recognized safety and performance standards.