Category: News

Benefits of Air Cooling in Modern Homes

Posted on by jomorgan

The Unico System features in Self Build

The Unico System has been featured in an issue of Self Build, where Richard Soper explores how stylish, efficient cooling can enhance the quality of your living spaces.

Staircase

It may not feel very traditionally British to worry about being too warm, but according to the Met Office, the number of hot days (28°C) has more than doubled and very hot days (30°C) trebled in the last decade compared to the latter part of the 20th century.

Recent changes to Building Regulations have focused on delivering better insulated, more airtight homes, designed and constructed to retain as much heat as possible to save on energy and carbon emissions in the colder months. Meanwhile, self builders and developers naturally want to take advantage of large areas of glazing to maximise light and views.

Read the full article below

Benefits of air cooling in modern homes

If you are interested in discovering more on the Unico System, you can download the full brochure here.

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Designing a Healthy & Comfortable Home

Posted on by jomorgan

The Unico System features in Self Build

The Unico System has been featured in the July 2025 issue of Self Build, where Richard Soper shares his expert advice on the steps you can take on your project journey to achieve a high-quality living environment.

Kitchen Island with greenery in front showing Unico

If you’re setting out on the journey to create your dream home, chances are it’s somewhere you plan to spend a lot of your time – whether enjoying family life, entertaining friends, working from home or simply relaxing in your new pad. It makes sense, then, to put comfort and wellbeing front and centre in your project brief.

Read the full article below

Designing a Healthy and Comfortable Home

If you are interested in discovering more on the Unico System, you can download the full brochure here.

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UNICO System’s HVAC cooling technology is a breath of fresh air for new Weighing Room facility at Worcester Racecourse

Posted on by jomorgan

Worcester Racecourse opened its new state of the art Weighing Room facility last summer, having installed UNICO’s Small Duct High Velocity 3-in-1 heating, ventilation and cooling System (HVAC). UNICO System’s unique HVAC technology has created draft-free, even temperatures throughout the complex even in hot weather, providing excellent energy efficiency and is a very environmentally friendly option, with the added bonus of being a cost-effective solution.

Property type

The Weighing Room complex is a large entertainment facility with multiple rooms. This features a brand-new changing room for jockeys to get changed, make their preparations for racing and spend some time relaxing. A new neutral working zone for the valets ensures all jockeys have the correct colours and riding equipment to hand from one race to the next. On the upper floor there is a canteen and social area, a physiotherapy studio and warm-up room. A Stewards’ Room for weighing-in and use by race officials, together with a TV Broadcast office are both situated on the ground floor. The Unico’s 3-in-1 System was specified to provide the ideal indoor environment all year round, for everyone using the facilities in each area.

System specification

The system specification chosen for the Weighing Room complex was the result of close collaboration between Worcester Racecourse & Arena Racing Company (ARC), Unico’s principal UK distributor Bell Plumbing, and Unico Specialist Installation Partner, Butco.

Considered were the major principles of cost, energy efficiency and sustainability. The resulting system specification was chosen as it maximises the potential of heat pumps to offer air conditioning, heating, hot water and integration with mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems (MVHR). The technology was specified for the Weighing Room as a versatile, practical and financially attractive alternative to a traditional fossil fuel-based HVAC system.

Another key factor to consider was the cooling capability of the Unico System, since the summer racing season indoor temperatures within the weighing room complex can be uncomfortably high.

Project delivery

Despite challenges of a tight area behind the canteen servery and significant height restrictions under the mono pitched room, the small footprint, compactness and horizontal configuration of the Unico AHUs meant that Bell Solutions were able to configure a layout that maximised use of the available space within a tight project deadline.

Results

The energy efficiency within the building has been completely optimised:  approximately 97% of system energy is retained and delivered into the conditioned spaces through room outlets. Furthermore, Unico’s HVAC system operates with extremely low noise levels (<30 decibels) and is visually unobtrusive, the outlets blending into the interior decor of each room.

Indoor air quality levels throughout the building are also consistently high thanks to lower humidity levels and the ability of Unico technology to remove up to 30% more humidity than would be achievable with traditional air conditioning technology.

With the aspiration principle of operation, small jets of cooled or warmed air are driven at high velocity into the different areas of the Weighing Room facility with minimal temperature differentials of no more than +/- 1º C floor to ceiling and no drafts. Standard white finish linear outlets are used extensively in front of floor to ceiling windows and the canteen servery, to form a conditioned air curtain that helps to keep room temperatures to desired preset levels. Round outlets have been carefully positioned around ceilings to ensure uniform delivery of conditioned air within each space, preventing hot or cold spots and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout.

The ability to set draft-free even temperatures, as well as providing precise instant cooling is a great benefit of the Unico HVAC system. All these factors create a consistent environment temperature and optimum comfort levels for all users in every room within the building.

The installation at Worcester Racecourse has demonstrated that in the light commercial sector, Unico’s technology is a viable environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based heating/air conditioning with a BMS system.

Richard Soper, Director of Unico Systems explained: “I’m delighted that our HVAC System has been such a success for the Weighing Room facility at Worcester Racecourse by keeping temperature levels consistently comfortable in all the rooms, year-round. Unico’s HVAC System technology has so many benefits for our customers, especially now we seem to be experiencing more heatwaves in the UK due to rising global temperatures. The convenient all-in-one system regulates the temperature in a building throughout the year, come snow or shine. We’re proud of the fact that it’s so energy efficient as well as being a very sustainable option, and cost-effective.”

Michael Thomas, General Manager of Worcester Racecourse, commented: “The new Weighing Room is a significant step forward in the future viability of the racecourse. For my team, the ability to set temperatures for each area and control the complete Unico installation remotely from an office located in the Grandstand is incredibly convenient. The installation work was carried out by Butco in an extremely professional way, working to tight deadlines. Feedback from jockeys, race officials, broadcasters and others who use the facility has been very positive in terms of indoor temperature levels and personal comfort within a year-round, busy working environment. The Unico system has been a game changer for us.”

UNICO’s 3-in-1 heating, ventilation & cooling system is the ideal solution to retrofit older homes for the optimal environment

Posted on by jomorgan

The UNICO  3-in-1 heating, ventilation and cooling is the ideal solution to retrofit older homes that may be draughty, energy inefficient, have poor insulation and generally hold uneven temperatures that encourage problems like mould and suffer from little ventilation and air flow. User friendly and easy to control, the system improves the environmental impact of a property and boosts its sustainability credentials.

This system provides a convenient solution for homeowners or prospective buyers when considering older, drafty properties with ineffectual insulation and old boiler systems that can often lead not only to unwanted expense, but also homes that are often too hot or cold throughout the seasons.

The Home

The property in Worcestershire is an 85 square metre, 1980 standard build detached home with equal floor space on each level, owner by customer Joe Roberts. There are two double bedrooms, a single bedroom and a bathroom upstairs. At ground level there is a hallway, kitchen and a large dining/living area which takes up the majority of the space. The home already featured double glazed windows, a loft space fitted with 200mm loft insulation and cavity wall insulation.

The fact that good insulation in place from the outset was important, enabling accurate heat loss surveys and meticulous system sizing to be carried out with a thorough understanding of exactly how heat would transfer through the accommodation.

The Solution

Our customer has expertise in renewable technologies in his professional capacity at UNICO’s official partners Bell Plumbing Supplies, and with the ability to install the new system himself, Joe selected the units himself. He chose a Worcester Bosch Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) with weather compensation that for added efficiency, adjusts its performance automatically based on external weather conditions. Alongside this Joe chose the Unico Heating, Ventilation & Cooling (HVAC) system, which he knew would integrate perfectly with the heat pump and was ideal for retrofitting into a home of this type and age.

With a 4.5 kW house heating and cooling load, the compact 1218 Series Unico Air Handling Unit with a chilled water coil was specified and installed out of the way in the loft space. The fully insulated and sound-attenuated ducting delivers conditioned air via multiple branches to room outlets on the two floors. It was conveniently routed above ceilings and inside cavity walls with its small diameter and flexibility making it simple to install. A total, of 13 round ceiling mounted room outlets were set up throughout both levels of the property.

The Results

Energy Saving Heating and Air Conditioning System

Running the Unico HVAC system in conjunction with the ASHP has enabled the creation of a truly energy efficient heating and air conditioning system. The Unico System maintains a comfortable 18ºC temperature throughout the whole house.

Customer Joe commented: “Energy saving comes from the efficiency of the Air Source Heat Pump and the overall design of the installation which is running at an efficiency of 350%.”

For additional economy, a Mixergy intelligent hot water cylinder has also been installed. Located in the loft alongside the Unico Air Handler, this provided the happy bonus of allowing an existing airing cupboard to be used for a new shower, extending the existing bathroom.

Minimal Impact to the Improved Interiors

With no need to pull up floorboards to get rid of old heating system pipework, the installation caused minimal disruption. Furthermore, the 13 ceiling outlets are finished in white, integrating naturally with the newly decorated rooms and totally discreet in appearance.

Joe added: “Friends who visit actually assume that the outlets are ceiling spotlights  and are surprised when they are told that they blowing conditioned warm or cooled air around our home. Our clothes are also successfully being dried in the jet stream of the room outlets, which is an unexpected benefit.”

A major interior design benefit of the installation for Joe was the ability to remove all the old radiators, freeing up wall space for new bookshelves to accommodate an extensive library collection.

Year-Round Even Temperatures Delivered by Quiet Technology

Whilst traditional heating and cooling systems effectively distribute warm or cooled air into a room unevenly, the Unico system works on the aspiration principle, with the room outlets delivering conditioned air into each room at a consistent temperature with no more than a +/-1ºC variation, no drafts, and no cold or hot spots.

It operates with minimum noise too as Joe explains: “ Once the Unico System was set up to the requirements of our home, it has run quietly in the background of our day to day life, causing no noise disruption and is scarcely noticeable to the eye either.“

 A major interior design benefit of the installation for Joe was the ability to remove all the old radiators, freeing up wall space for new bookshelves to accommodate an extensive library collection.

Improved Air Quality and Piece of Mind

The three-in-one system has the ability to provide cooling and ventilation alongside heating, providing peak functionality 365 days a year.  Cooling and ventilating in the summer allows windows to be kept closed, ensuring pollen and other pollutants cannot diminish the indoor air quality. The air filtration and optional UV light for air disinfection removes odours, mould and bacteria from the home.

The system also removes 30% more humidity than conventional air conditioning systems, resulting in the significant reduction of condensation on windows and keeping mould at bay.

CONCLUSION: A Versatile System Suitable for Every Home

Joe commented: “The system is designed to be as efficient as possible and it is nice to prove that a standard 1980s built home can have a heat pump and be fitted with a Unico System to provide heating and hot water very efficiently, with no improvements to the insulation. It has been faultless in operation. We will also add solar power and battery storage in our transition to a greener lifestyle.”

In conclusion, this installation has provided many benefits in terms of embracing sustainability, the versatility of heating and cooling with a single system, ventilation and moisture reduction resulting in a much fresher and more pleasant indoor environment and offering much-improved interior design freedom. “You don’t need to have a new build home to realise the benefits of a Unico Heat Pump installation!” Joe confirms.

TIME FOR ACTION ON NET ZERO! SAYS RICHARD SOPER, THE UNICO SYSTEM.

Posted on by jomorgan

Our new government faces many challenges to get the country back on track to its 2030 reduced emissions target and achieve net zero emissions by 2050. It’s a very tall order and new initiatives are required very quickly. Reports by recognised independent organisations set out their thoughts on what actions need to be taken to achieve these goals – and they make perfect sense.

A significant number of their ideas relate to how we must change the way we heat and increasingly cool our homes. After all some 18% of this country’s total carbon emissions emanate from heating our households. Over recent years, encouraged by financial incentives, the installation of heat pumps, and renewable energy sources has grown at the expense of fossil fuel systems. This growth has not been quick enough with the speed of uptake being hampered by several factors such as government policy rollback, the need for more financial incentives for homeowners and a lack of qualified installers.

When it comes to heat pumps, the still relatively high upfront cost of heat pump installations, the payback periods and the practical difficulties in retrofitting the technology in existing housing stock remain major obstacles, as well as the comparative cost of electricity needed to run a heat pump. One idea is to make electricity cheaper and ensure that the lower running costs of heat pumps compared to fossil-fuel boilers is reflected in household bills. Another is that new heating engineers must be able to access high quality training in low-carbon heating and existing gas heating engineers must be supported and incentivised to make the switch.

Such proposals are broadly welcomed by the HVAC manufacturing and installation sector – and not just those companies who manufacture, supply or install heat pumps. Other manufacturers of associated HVAC products that are compatible with renewables, and offer many additional benefits over and above sustainability, also support the need for fast government action.

Unico is one of those companies. Its Small Duct High Velocity (SDHV) technology that heats, cools and ventilates homes may not be widely taken up as yet, but residential installations are growing quickly. Unico Fan Coil Units/Air Handlers not only work brilliantly with heat pumps, but they are also highly energy efficient with high maximum cooling / heating outputs and fast response times. Compact and available in different horizontal or vertical configurations, they can fit conveniently into smaller spaces such as attics or even cupboards.

There are other significant benefits too. Firstly, as an all-in-one system, there is no need for investment in separate technologies around the home. Secondly, it offers the not-to-be-underestimated benefit of raising and maintaining Indoor Air Quality levels. These are essential for our general well-being, particularly for those suffering from respiratory issues.

The Unico System offers air filtration and is equipped with integral standard air filtration. There is also the possibility of upgrading to higher grades of filter – for example, UV light air purification can counteract airborne allergens, dust, germs, odours, mould and bacteria from within the home.

An inherent advantage of Unico SDHV technology is its ability to remove greater levels of humidity from the air than other forms of traditional HVAC technology. This is an essential requirement at a time when new build homes are better insulated and more tightly sealed than ever before, lacking adequate natural ventilation.

Thirdly, it’s a highly energy efficient system, with some 97% of the electrical energy used to operate the system finding it’s way into the rooms of a property in the form of conditioned cooled or warm air and hot water delivery. This represents exceptional efficiency.

There you have it – three simple benefits of SDHV technology, without even setting out many other side operational and installation advantages. So let’s stand in support of all the organisations shouting out for fast action from this government. Time is running short, but if implemented quickly, new initiatives and changes to our approach to achieving net zero can help save the planet. In the meantime, such measures will create a better platform for making daily living in our homes a greener, more comfortable and healthier experience through the take up of newer HVAC technologies.

Sleep Easy This Summer

Posted on by jomorgan

Summer is a season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and unfortunately, sweltering heat. In 2022, we saw temperatures soar to a scorching 40.2°C, making it crucial to find ways to keep cool, especially at night.

While we rely on climate control in our cars, shops and offices, many of us still overlook the importance of air conditioning in our homes. However, with global warming causing more frequent heatwaves, the need for effective home climate control has never been more pressing. Don’t wait until the next heatwave to start thinking about your home’s climate control.

Your key to a cool, comfortable home

The Unico System is a 3-in-1 solution for cooling, ventilating and heating your home. This system is designed to provide even, draft-free and whisper-quiet comfort, ensuring you and your family can sleep soundly through those hot summer nights. Imagine one system that seamlessly manages your home’s climate.

  1. Perfect Sleep Temperature: According to the Sleep Foundation, the ideal temperature for sleep is around 18.3°C. Unico helps you maintain this optimal temperature, preventing the restlessness that comes with heat and the difficulty of falling asleep when it’s too cold.
  2. Improved Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
    In addition to keeping you cool, Unico enhances your home’s IAQ by filtering out viruses and contaminants. This means a healthier living environment for you and your family, which is particularly important given the current focus on respiratory health.
  3. Quiet Operation: Say goodbye to the noisy, rattling air conditioners of the past. The system operates quietly, ensuring that your sleep remains undisturbed by the sounds of a running air conditioner or fan.

Benefits of improved sleep quality

Lack of sleep can significantly impact your physical and mental health. When your bedroom gets too warm this can increase your body temperature and disturb your sleep. You are more sensitive to temperatures during the first two sleep stages and are more likely to wake up during these stages if you feel too hot. Suppose you wake up during the first two sleep cycles. In that case, you are less likely to spend enough time in deep sleep, which is important for cell repair, immune system recovery and other restorative physiological processes.

Air conditioning can ensure the right temperature in your bedroom and throughout your home is maintained, promoting better sleep and overall well-being. By keeping your home cool and comfortable, you can wake up refreshed and ready to face the day.

Unico Sleep Easy Campaign
Ready to transform your home into a cool oasis? Get in touch to find your local Unico System Specialist Partner today. They offer unrivalled expertise in heating, cooling, and ventilation systems and can provide:
  • A fully costed quotation tailored to your home’s needs.
  • An installation schedule designed to minimise disruption.
  • Technical know-how and 24/7 after-sales service.
  • Extended product warranties for peace of mind.

Sleep easy this summer – and every season – with The Unico System.

The Unico System UK Partners with Ebac to Expand its offering to Include MVHR Systems in the UK

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The Unico System, based in the Midlands, is pleased to announce that it has partnered with Ebac a UK manufacturer of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems. This collaboration marks a significant expansion of The Unico System’s product range, allowing it to offer state-of-the-art MVHR solutions to the UK market.

As a pioneer in the HVAC industry, Unico has always been dedicated to providing innovative and efficient climate control solutions. With the integration of Ebac’s MVHR technology into its offerings, Unico aims to set an even higher standard in indoor air quality and energy efficiency for both residential and commercial buildings.

Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems are essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment and is designed to continuously extract and supply fresh, filtered air to houses and similar dwellings. Through heat recovery, MVHR systems reduce the need for additional heating, contributing to lower energy bills and supporting sustainability goals.

Customers will now have access to these cutting-edge MVHR systems alongside The Unico System’s existing renowned HVAC solutions, providing a comprehensive approach to indoor climate control that includes heating, cooling, ventilation, air filtration, humidity control, air disinfection and now, heat recovery, which is unrivalled by competitive alternatives.

“We are excited to partner with Ebac to bring their MVHR technology as an additional accessory to our customers in the UK,” said Richard Soper, MD of The Unico System. “This collaboration aligns with our commitment to innovation and sustainability, and we believe it will benefit our customers by providing them with superior indoor air quality and energy efficiency.”

He continues “The combined expertise of The Unico System and Ebac will help buildings meet and exceed current and future regulatory requirements for energy efficiency and air quality.”

This partnership is a strategic move to address the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient ventilation solutions in the UK. With Ebac’s MVHR technology, The Unico System is well-positioned to deliver enhanced value to its customers, helping them achieve both comfort and compliance in their building projects.

For more information regarding the partnership between The Unico System and Ebac, contact [email protected] or call 01384 422094.

ADVANTAGES OF THE UNICO SMALL DUCT HIGH VELOCITY DUCTED HVAC SYSTEM

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With the overriding need to replace fossil fuels as an energy source, heat pumps and other renewables have quickly made their mark on modernising our existing UK housing stock. Demand for effective HVAC solutions in the home is also being driven by new legislation that addresses overheating through the Building Regulations, Part O and because of the ban on gas boilers in new homes from 2025. The consequences of these developments, together with the incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, are encouraging positive change in the quest to achieve net zero carbon output and to achieve the optimum indoor living environment.

Unico Lapford Project. Shows Ducted system.

Considerations in HVAC Selection

There are decisions to be made by homeowners and installers on selecting the most appropriate HVAC solution. With climate change and the trend towards warmer summers, how to cool a property is becoming as important as how to provide warmth. Heat pumps provide a source of renewable energy that can be used for complete indoor climate control and are available in many variations.

Assessing Heating and Cooling Delivery Systems

When it comes to the heating and cooling delivery systems, the alternatives have both advantages and drawbacks. Traditional radiators? Air conditioning units on the wall? Ducted systems? All in one solutions?  These choices must be weighed up and aside from energy efficiency and thermal comfort considerations, aesthetics and installation practicalities can be significant issues. These can include the need to make structural alterations to a property, maximising the use of available internal walls, dispensing with unsightly radiators or grilles and having sufficient space for ducting.

The Evolution of Ducted Systems

One viable approach would be to consider a central air distribution system that features small ducts to deliver heating and cooling into the living space. It can overcome many of the perceived obstacles when specifying and installing an HVAC system, whether in a new home or as part of a refurbishment project.

When it comes to ducted systems, traditional ducted AC systems in the home in the UK are uncommon and often impractical due to duct sizes and space requirements. Those who are looking for either permanent or temporary air conditioning consider split systems and portable solutions and these too have their drawbacks.

The reputation of ducted systems may have been tarnished by memories of original warm air heating systems. Their performance was often considered below par, not only in terms of efficient heat output, but also because of lack of air movement in room circulation, operational noise and maintenance issues. Of course, times have changed and there have been great steps forward in technology, so today’s warm air heating has much improved performance and controls.

The Unico System: A Modern Ducted Solution

It comes as a surprise to some customers that the Unico System Small Duct High Velocity (SDHV) system is a ducted solution. Its versatility as a central air delivery solution is highlighted by the fact that it is wholly compatible with heat pumps and offers air filtration, UV light air purification, ventilation and humidity control properties alongside heating and cooling. Its air delivery method uses a lower volume of air moving at high velocity resulting in significant advantages over other traditional forms of forced air ducted systems.

Small flexible ducting mixes and delivers conditioned air into living spaces. It has an internal diameter of only 51mm and the standard twist-fit connector simplifies the installation process. The compact design means that it can be conveniently twisted and fitted in the tightest of ceiling spaces, between joists and through wall cavities, before connecting to room outlets. The sound attenuating tubing is optimised for low noise and its outer jacket of two-ply reinforced Mylar provides a vapour seal to prevent leakage and moisture migration. It also enhances the energy performance by reducing radiant heat transfer and reducing thermal losses. 97% of the system’s energy is delivered into the conditioned living space.

With whisper quiet operation, discreet room outlets can be positioned seamlessly in walls, floors or ceilings. The air is delivered with decibel levels of < 30 and the aspiration principle of operation drives high velocity small jets of conditioned air driven into the living space, eliminating drafts, cold/ hot spots and keeping temperature differentials within +- 1ºC, floor-to-floor, floor to ceiling and room to room.  The design of the Unico System is a major advantage in refurbishment, self-build and new homes, affording a much better choice of room furniture layouts and maximum use of wall space.

Unico flexible ductwork is around 33% the size of conventional ducting and links via a central duct to a small footprint air handling unit that can be conveniently located in an attic or even a cupboard. Aside from size, however, there are other considerations when it comes to the specification of a ducted HVAC system.

Ductwork that is installed in unconditioned areas will reduce system efficiency and the ducts seen in attics with traditional AC systems are technically outside the building’s thermal boundary, often losing some 15% – 20% of the air going through them.

Efficiency and Performance

Putting values to duct efficiency, conventional ducts are generally 70 – 85% efficient and sometimes as low as 60% if significant leakage occurs from improper installation. On the other hand, Unico’s small ducts are easier to locate inside the conditioned (insulated) building envelope and therefore duct efficiency is not a significant issue. Indeed, efficiency is in the 85 – 95% efficiency bracket, based on correct installation practice.

Integration and Adaptability

The versatility and flexibility of the Unico ducted system, including its ability to counteract humidity issues and integrate with other forms of heating and ventilation, gives it even greater appeal. It can, for example, be easily installed and used just within the upper levels of a home, alongside traditional ground floor radiators or underfloor heating. In new homes that focus on high energy efficiency and building tightness with no adventitious air, the Unico System can help overcome hot sleepless summer nights as well as preventing overheating.

Professional Installation and Maintenance

Of course, careful design and layout of any SDHV system is essential and its specification must be based on calculations for heating and cooling demand within a home. Commissioning, installation and planned maintenance is also a task for experienced professionals including Unico’s Specialist Partners (USP) network.

For more information about The Unico System, please contact the team at [email protected].

Bell Plumbing Supplies Expands Reach with Worcester Branch, Offering Unparalleled Services and Cutting-Edge Solutions including The Unico System

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It was in early 2020 that Bell Plumbing Supplies took a further step forward with the opening of its new Worcester branch. This became the latest addition to the distribution network of the highly successful West Midlands plumbing and heating merchant. Since 2007 the company has established nine branches throughout the region, underlining the aim of bringing truly convenient local services to the trade and general public.  

The Worcester catchment area was recognised as one of great potential, with its good mixture of property types from smaller urban properties to country homes. Bell Plumbing Supplies set out to provide what no other independent organisation in its field was offering locally, in terms of depth and range of stocked products, trade counter and delivery services, a showroom facility and product training opportunities – all supported by a strong central organisation and highly knowledgeable staff for whom expert advice, good customer communication and courteous service are core values. 

Based at Unit 8, Great Western Business Park in Worcester, the modern premises retain some of the local heritage with an original outside wall dating from the bygone era of the local railway industry. But it is inside where the facilities are really impressive and from the outset the interior was planned to ensure the best experience for customers and staff. 

There is a large welcoming reception area and trade counter which is open six days a week. An adjoining open plan office is the hub for business administration, customer service and technical staff who provide customers with face to face product support as well as telephone and online advice.  

The branch’s location is proving particularly advantageous in attracting passing trade from the busy business park and the warehouse has a good core stock of products that meet the day-to-day needs of installers and the public. Many customers also take advantage of fast and reliable same or next-day delivery services. 

The dedicated showroom, meeting and training areas on the first floor are proving particularly popular and regularly welcome visitors for planned events or individual consultations. Customers can familiarise themselves with Bell Plumbing Supplies’ full product portfolio. Two of the highlights reflect the Worcester branch’s commitment to offering the latest eco-friendly heating and cooling solutions in response to the changing face of the market.  

Heat pumps and renewables are showcased in the highly informative Daikin Sustainable Home Centre and a further exciting addition to the space is Unico System’s versatile all-in-one heating, cooling, ventilation and air filtration system. Bell Plumbing Supplies is Unico’s principal UK distribution partner and receives comprehensive technical and sales support across the whole branch network.                                                                                                                                         

Unico’s presence at Worcester includes a fully functional system, so visitors can experience first-hand the comfort benefits and impressive performance of SDHV Small Duct High Velocity heating and cooling. The system also provides climate control to the ground floor trade counter area of the Worcester branch, helping to create a welcoming indoor environment for visitors as well as comfortable working conditions for staff. 

Paul Stevens, Unico System’s Technical Sales Trainer and Support Engineer, is in close contact with Branch Manager Liam Mulryan, providing technical and sales support, and arranging customer events and product demonstrations. Customised product training courses are also arranged at the fully equipped, state-of-the-art Stourbridge Training Centre. 

“There are high levels of interest from local installers and homeowners in the Unico System, especially with next year’s ban on gas boilers in new homes and the need to address overheating in new residential properties. Bell Plumbing Supplies is fully trained in our systems and can offer customers a new and different environmentally friendly solution,” says Paul. 

One of the strengths of the Bell Plumbing Supplies organisation is the support that branches receive from the company’s dedicated Solutions team based at Stourbridge. Solutions can appraise potential installations, giving customers impartial, expert advice on the suitability of any products under consideration. This is particularly valuable when some of the less familiar heating and air conditioning technologies, including heat pumps and Unico SDHV, are being assessed. 

The Worcester operation under Liam and the team has gone from strength to strength over the last four years, exceeding expectations. Much of the hard yardage has been done in terms of establishing the branch, but there is more to come. “We’ll continue to offer installers, homeowners and self-builders hands-on, professional service. We never stand still and aim to set standards to which other suppliers aspire,” says Liam. 

UNLOCKING SUCCESS: THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING A UNICO SPECIALIST PARTNER FOR INSTALLATIONS IN THE UK

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In the dynamic landscape of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) solutions, Unico System stands out as a leader in innovation and energy efficiency with its Small Duct High Velocity (SDHV) technology.

For installers in the United Kingdom seeking to grow and add an extra dimension to their business, becoming a Unico Specialist Partner (USP) is certainly worth consideration. 

With more homeowners concerned about their environmental imprint and seeking cost-efficient heating systems, they are looking at eco-friendly alternatives including heat pumps and other renewables. And as the climate temperature increases in the summer months, they are also considering how to cool their homes efficiently. With its 3-in-1 heating, cooling and ventilation solution, the Unico System is at the forefront of available potential solutions. 

Our USPs see many benefits associated with this role:

  1. Cutting-Edge Technology

Unico is renowned for its cutting-edge technology in air conditioning and heating solutions. As a USP, professionals will be getting involved with SDHV technology at a time when it is quickly gaining acceptance as the most versatile, energy-efficient HVAC solution available. The need to address the forthcoming ban on gas boilers in new homes and how to comply with overheating in the home to comply with Building Regulations are significant issues. In terms of offering choice, proven technology, client satisfaction and an all-in-one solution, USPs will position themselves at the forefront of the industry. 

  1. Comprehensive Training Programs

To ensure the success of its USPs, Unico offers comprehensive training programmes. These cover in-depth product knowledge, installation techniques, troubleshooting and maintenance. This training empowers Partners with the skills and expertise needed to deliver top-notch service. Training also extends beyond purely technical aspects, encompassing sales and marketing strategies to help Partners effectively promote and develop sales opportunities for  Unico technology.  

  1. Exclusive Access to Marketing Resources and Co-Branding Opportunities

 Unico understands the importance of effective marketing in a very competitive industry. Becoming a USP grants exclusive access to a wealth of resources. Partners benefit from priority technical support, marketing materials, promotional tools, exhibitions, PR & Advertising to help develop their businesses. The USP can capitalise on the strength and high reputation of the Unico brand and support its own marketing initiatives through co-branding opportunities and collaborative campaigns.  

  1. Business Development and Networking Opportunities

 USPs have access to a network of like-minded professionals and industry experts. This community fosters collaboration, idea-sharing and business development opportunities. Regular events and conferences organised or supported by the wider Unico team create a platform for Partners to stay updated on industry trends and forge valuable connections.  

  1. Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty

Unico’s commitment to quality and innovation translates into high customer satisfaction. By aligning with Unico as a USP, professionals can offer clients HVAC solutions that prioritise comfort, energy efficiency, and reliability. The resulting customer satisfaction can not only lead to repeat business but also positive word-of-mouth referrals, contributing to long-term success. 

With the ability to provide HVAC solutions to customers looking for a specialist in new build and strip-back renovation projects by introducing Unico to them will open up new solutions that also focus on indoor air quality (IAQ), health & well-being as well as heating and cooling.

Becoming a USP helps businesses to thrive in a competitive market. From cutting-edge technology and comprehensive training to exclusive resources and marketing support, the advantages of joining as a USP are self-evident. As the HVAC industry continues to evolve, aligning with the forward-thinking and innovative Unico brand positions professionals for sustained success and growth in the dynamic UK market.

Get in touch to learn more about becoming a Unico Specialist Partner.