Audree Grubesic. Jan 30, 2025. Updated: Jan 22.
The Unico System is a whole-house small duct high velocity HVAC system for central heating and cooling. It uses smaller ducting than traditional forced air systems. It moves reduced air volume at higher speed.
The system operates under high static pressure, with an average of 1.5 inches water column. Air speed at the 2-inch SDHV supply outlet is 1,000 to 2,000 feet per minute. Airflow at each outlet averages 28 to 32 cubic feet per minute.
The indoor air handling unit typically includes a blower and a cooling and/or heat pump coil. In many areas, it uses a hot water coil for central heating.
The components are separate in a modular configuration. This helps the system fit tight spaces. The article says this can avoid architectural compromise.
The system can add electric heat, central humidification, connection to a hot water heating system or domestic water heating system, and high efficiency filtration up to Hospital grade MERV 13.
Return air systems can be singular or multiple by room.
The plenum is available in insulated round, rectangular, square sheet metal, or pre-formed fiberglass constructions.
The rectangular plenum is 3.5 inches high by 14.5 inches wide.
In modular applications, the 3.5-inch by 14.5-inch duct can be installed between housing modules. It can supply up to 3.5 tons of conditioned air into the module above and the module below.
The article says the flat plenum can be installed at the factory in the interstitial space between modules. It also says 12 tons of Unico SDHV can fit in the same physical space as 3 tons of large duct conditioned air.
Supply ducting uses flexible tubing from the main plenum to small openings in the ceiling, wall, or floor.
The supply tubing is a 4-inch OD flexible duct with a 2-inch inner core air delivery.
It is connected to the plenum with a leak-free gasketed takeoff.
Unico System outlets come in two configurations: round and slotted.
The outlets are available in colored plastic or wood species. They can be painted, stained, or wallpapered.
The Unico System is compatible with major manufactured brands of outdoor compressors, condensers, chillers, and heat pumps.
Compatible heat pump types include air, water, or geothermal.
The company does not make a specific outdoor unit.
The article points readers to a modular landing page at landing.unicosystem.com/modular-0-0 and to unicosystem.com.