Commercial Installation

Posted on 10th June 202228th October 2025 by stewart

Commercial Installation

Installation of the Unico System Small Duct High Velocity (SDHV) System

Unico carried out a commercial installation at the NSBRC building to showcase their excellent new SDHV Systems in the commercial and professional setting!

The National Self Build and Renovation Centre (NSBRC) is the country’s only permanent venue for independent homebuilding advice and showcases the best building technologies and construction methods.

Since becoming an employee owned business in 2014, the facility has been continuously developed to ensure the optimum visitor experience for the 1000s of self-builders, home improvers and building professionals who attend annually.

The most recent initiative has been the installation of a new Unico System Small Duct High Velocity (SDHV) system in the reception area of the venue to welcome visitors with a comfortable indoor environment whatever the time of year or the weather outside.

Improve indoor air quality with the Unico System

Air Craft

This is an an indoor air comfort specialist and approved Specialist Partner for the Unico System. They were responsible for the design and installation of the system.

Managing Director Darren Johnson believes that the all in one cooling and heating solution was the best technology to fulfil the requirements of the project. “ The beauty is Unico’s ability to provide cooling and heating from one compact Air Handling Unit (AHU). It also being able to match it with the latest environmentally friendly Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) energy source is great. In the summer, the 100+ square metre reception area, with its full width glazing. It can be affected by elevated temperatures especially when many visitors can congregate. Then in colder months the space needs heat and Unico can deliver that too.” says Managing Director Darren Johnson.

How We Did It

The suspended ceiling above the reception had plenty of space for the installation of a Green Series Unico MB4260H Air Handling Unit (AHU). It features the latest Variable Speed Control high efficiency fan, which is up to 62% more energy efficient. Smart Control Board to ensure precise airflow control, easy commissioning and diagnostics.

One of the major advantages of the Unico System is its ability to be adapted for operation with the latest heat pump technology. In this case it uses a Heat Pump coil and a Daikin Heat Pump outdoor unit. We were also using low environmental impact R32 refrigerant with significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP).

To ensure compatibility between the two technologies, Unico and Daikin cooperated to develop a customised control box interface. Air Craft used their extensive experience to ensure the required loading and technical performance for the AHU and the ASHP were carefully matched.

The installation was completed by Air Craft with minimal disruption in the day to day operation of the reception area. Following rigorous testing it was fully operational in time for the NSBRC’s series of open days in May 2022.

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Residential Renovation

Posted on 13th May 202228th October 2025 by stewart

Residential Renovation

A core heating and cooling solution for a residential renovation

Installation background

Installation Date: Spring 2022
Property Type: Renovation of 1990s four bedroom detached family home in Dorset. Unico provides heating and cooling to first floor
Unico System: 1218BL1 Blower Module, Variable Speed EC motor, 1218 CL1 Heat Pump Coil
Energy Source: Daikin Altherma Low Temperature Split Air Source Heat Pump
Controls: Nest Home Automation System and Pro Learning thermostat
Additional Technology: Underfloor Heating System to ground floor, intelligent hot water tank for precise hot water delivery, energy saving battery storage utilising low cost overnight tariffs

Discreet climate control

Solution

The specification of Unico System for the installation has demonstrated how this technology can form the core heating and cooling solution for a home renovation project based on renewable heat pump technology.
The property has undergone a complete renovation. Energy saving loft and cavity wall insulation was already installed and the owners wished to dispense with the ageing gas boiler, microbore pipework and wall hung radiators. These were to be replaced with a new system featuring renewables and electricity only. With the expectation of higher temperatures and hotter, less comfortable nights in the years to come, investment in an all in one system that can use renewable energy for heating, cooling, ventilation and indoor air quality throughout the year was the ideal solution.

Compatibility

The compatibility of the system with renewables was essential and a Daikin Altherma Low Temperature Split Air Source Heat Pump was selected as the matching energy source. The heat pump is linked to the space saving horizontal Unico 1218 Air Handling Unit situated in the loft and features variable fan speed motor, a Smart Control Board for precise airflow control and a Heat Pump Coil module. The main central duct connects to the air handling unit, feeds the flexible supply duct tubing before emitting conditioned air into the bedrooms through discreet round ceiling outlets.

To further maximise the energy efficiency of the installation, battery storage technology, running on low cost overnight tarrifs, stores electricity for lighter duty appliance power consumption during the day. To meet hot water demand precisely and exactly on time, an intelligent hot water tank has been installed.

The Unico System features air filtration to remove larger particulate from the indoor air. For additional continuous protection from airborne viruses and bacteria, complementary bi-polar ionisation technology has also been specified.

Space saving roof space installation

Advantages

All year round heating and cooling solution
Convenient use of the loft space for the compact air handler, ductwork and flexible supply tubing is a key in retrofit renovation projects
Lightweight modular ductwork promotes safe, easy handling and time savings during installation
The air handler isolates noise and vibration with sound deadening insulation, allowing installation immediately above the main bedroom with no risk of noise disruption
The flow of air through the supply tubing and into the room through the ceiling outlets generates minimal noise
Wall space freed up with the removal of radiators
Once heated or cooled air enters the bedroom it creates a draught free, even environment with minimal temperature fluctuations
Removes 30% more humidity from the air compared with conventional heating and air conditioning systems, improving air quality and preventing the formation of damp and mould

Improve indoor air quality with the Unico System

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Unico chosen for Mid Devon District Council Installation

Posted on 13th December 202128th October 2025 by maddie

Over the past few monthswe have carried out work and equipment installed to two bungalows in Lapford, Devon. These reflect the highest level of energy efficiency Mid Devon District Council hope to achieve within this building type. The performance of the systems within the homes will be monitored for the first year of their occupancy and will help to:

Determine the lowest possible carbon footprint the Council can expect to achieve;
Determine budgets for future works; and
Indicate the level of carbon offset required to achieve net zero targets.

Space saving roof space installation

Installation of a HVAC or AC unit done by Unico Systems in the UK, this has been done in the left in a house.

Our state-of-the-art heating and cooling system has been installed in both properties, delivering benefits of air filtration (similar to that of a GP surgery), adjustable heating and cooling for cold winter months/hot summer months. As well as a humidistat controlled mechanical extraction vent (MEV) which can remove excess moisture.

This means that they would be suitable for people with respiratory diseases whilst also suitable for people with a compromised immune system.

Further adaptations have been made, including: increased cavity wall and loft insulation, newly fitted doors and windows. Also solar PV and/or solar thermal, internal renovation. We have also upgraded kitchens and level access showers making these truly lifelong properties.

These homes meet decarbonisation targets set out in the recently adopted Housing strategy. With the Council looking to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate of C (standard) in all properties by 2030 and becoming net zero by 2050 by retrofitting and upgrading existing properties.

Councillor Bob Evans, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Property Service said:

“It was a great opportunity to see these properties first hand. They are real, tangible examples of how we can achieve our decarbonisation targets through bringing our current housing stock up-to-date.

Making the Councils housing stock carbon neutral a reality is not going to be easy and will be financially challenging but these first steps are a positive sign of progress.

“The many benefits of these properties speak for themselves. It is my hope that we can bring more and more of these improvements to Mid Devon residents in the near future. Helping to make houses more liveable and most importantly, feel like home.”

The Council has existing carbon budget commitments to meet its targets with a recent bid for additional funding of £2.1 Million submitted to the Government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF).

From 2022, all new projects and new build Council homes will be an Energy Performance Certificate of A (very efficient) and zero carbon.

View the full case study here

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Mid Devon District Council select Unico based on its innovative design

Posted on 13th December 202128th October 2025 by maddie

Mid Devon District Council select Unico based on its innovative design

Superior Comfort

Installation background

Installation Date: Summer 2021
Property Type: Off gas one bedroom bungalow
Unico System: 1218 BL1 Blower Module, S.M.A.R.T. Control, Variable Speed EC Motor, 1218 CL1 Heatpump Coil Module & Ultraviolet Lighting System for air purification
Energy Source: Daikin Altherma EDLQ-CV3 air to water monobloc heat pump
Controls: Nest – Pro Learning Thermostat

The Unico System Benefit

The aim of this project was to provide a system that delivers efficient, high-quality heating, cooling and ventilation to an existing traditional build bungalow.

The system needed to be controllable, efficient, simple, effective and affordable. The installation is required to be scalable, in terms of application and value whilst addressing issues of ventilation, indoor air quality and possible overheating within the property.

Discreet climate control

Previous issues within the property

Property & occupants

Householders in this property type are more likely to be elderly and less mobile
Many householders have downsized to a smaller property, and with a lifetime of possessions means that space can be at a premium. Radiators and panel heaters may become obstructed and this impedes heating and the flow of air within the property.
Costly and inefficient heating systems are less likely to be used. This results in under heated, poorly ventilated properties that may be subject to damp and mould.
Householders often create conditions that are likely to cause issues., ie, don’t open windows, cook without lids, don’t close the door to the bathroom, hang wet washing by heaters, etc.

To meet these challenges, they turned to the Unico System.

Solution

Mid Devon District Council selected the Unico SDHV system based on its innovative design which delivers conditioned and enhanced indoor air quality. The system integrates a humidistat controlled MEV and maintains an exchange of fresh air to the property. The advantage of being able to locate the distribution system in the roof space.

The longer term operational benefits include the price point, the integration of known technologies (ASHP) and the potential for future installations to be delivered by the DLO. The enhanced environmental controls maintain healthy households, reducing pressure on the local NHS and GP surgeries. We also expect the system to be fundamental in helping with the reduction of disrepair claims as a result of damp and mould.

Space saving roof space installation

Unico & Mid Devon Case Study Installation

Unico & Mid Devon Case Study control — Nest Pro Learning Controller

Unico & Mid Devon Case Study air filtration — Return Air Grill for air filtration

Unico & Mid Devon Case Study — Unobtrusive outlets

Unico & Mid Devon Case Study outlet2 — Outlets which colour matching to interior

View full press release

Download the case study

Improve indoor air quality with the Unico System

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We are exhibiting at The National Self Build & Renovation Centre

Posted on 19th November 202128th October 2025 by maddie

We are proudly exhibiting at The National Self Build & Renovation centre is the UK’s only permanent venue for independent homebuilding advice and support. Established in 2007, they have helped almost a quarter of a million visitors build their own dream home or extend and improve their existing property.

Our new stand

Unico Systems exhibition stand from a show, this is a stand that has their information and graphics on the walls. UK stand

Join Us!

The NSBRC is open six days a week showcasing the very best building methods, innovations and technologies.

They have an expert helpdesk, a range of shows, workshops and educational courses to support their visitors in their quest to build their perfect home.

We are looking forward to helping with your upcoming projects.

Whilst exhibiting our exceptional services we will have an expert on hand to answer questions, take details and we will be working with you to advise on the best solution for you!

Why not start your tailored design process today!

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Upskill to benefit from lockdown bounce-back

Posted on 6th July 202128th October 2025 by maddie

The Unico System features in H&V News for Upskill Opportunity

A boom in home improvements and renovations has seen heating and cooling engineers and installers in demand like never before. Richard Soper outlines why training is key.

H&V News

Check out the article below

Upskill to benefit from lockdown bounce back – Hvnplus.co.uk

Lockdown receding allows for trained professionals to take advantage of the industry and upskill their abilities in engineering!

If you are interested in discovering more on the Unico System or CPD training course then get in touch with our solutions team on 01384 422094 or email [email protected]

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The Unico System features in PHAM News

Posted on 15th June 202128th October 2025 by bradley

The Unico System and Bell Plumbing Supplies features in PHAM News

The Unico System and Bell Plumbing Supplies have both been featured in an issue of PHAM News discussing how a new CPD has been created by Richard Soper (ex- Worcester Bosch CEO). This is going to help heating engineers add cooling and ventilation to their resume.

Check out PHAM News through the link below where they speak on Bell Plumbing Supplies, The Unico System with the newly introduced CPD training and much more.

Check out the article below

Additional skills available for heating engineers with the introduction of the CPD – TheUnicoSystem

If you are interested in discovering more on the Unico System or CPD training course then get in touch with our solutions team on 01384 422094 or email [email protected]

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The UNICO System in the Home- Designer and Architects Magazine

Posted on 21st May 202128th October 2025 by bradley

With the ban on gas and oil boilers in new build design homes set to come into effect by 2025. Renewable heating will be the way forward along with an indication on how easily and simply this can be implemented.

Check out the Home-Designer and Architect magazine through the link below where they speak on Bell Plumbing Supplies, The Unico System with the newly introduced CPD training and much more.

New CPD set to enable heating engineers to offer ventilation and cooling @TheUnicoSystem

If you are interested in discovering more on the Unico System or CPD training course then get in touch with our solutions team on 01384 422094 or email [email protected]

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Fifteen Restaurant Cornwall

Posted on 9th January 202028th October 2025 by stewart

Fifteen Restaurant Cornwall

Superior Comfort

A restaurants most important priority is their diners comfort and experience, with excellent coastal views and beautiful interior when it comes to the interior of this establishment we had to come up with the best design possible!

Benefits

Even, draft-free temperatures
Quiet operation
Zone control options
Discreet supply outlets
Flexible design and installation

“If there were a Michelin rating for comfort, the Unico System would undoubtedly receive 3 stars”.

Jamie Oliver, of Britain’s Channel 4 documentary series “Jamie’s Kitchen”, began the Fifteen restaurant brand in 2002 with a flagship location in London. The name is derived from the celebrity chef’s apprenticeship program of training fifteen disadvantaged youth in the culinary arts and service management industries.

Unico System Fifteen Restaurant Interior

Overview

Fifteen in Cornwall overlooks the beach at Watergate Bay on the north coast of the county of Cornwall, UK. The restaurant offers slick, traditional Italian cuisine with a Cornish twist. The location features a high, open ceiling design and casual-chic interior with murals of pastel-coloured surf scenes adorning the walls.

The developers of the property were determined to create a visual style for this new location as unique as that of Mr. Oliver’s approach to food. While adamantly determined not to copy the “faux-industrial” look of exposed metal ducting that has become so common in commercial locales, they were committed to adding a heating and cooling system that could deliver superior comfort as well as disappear into the background.

To meet these challenges, they turned to the Unico System.

Strategy

The very features that make the Unico System attractive to the old home and custom home residential markets make it an optimal choice for commercial-built applications as well. The modular air handling equipment, smaller main trunk ducting and flexible supply ducting allow it to fit where conventional heating and cooling systems simply cannot.

Air handlers and the main ducting were situated outside of the main dining area and Unico System supply tubes were snaked through the sloped ceiling’s cavities to discharge conditioned air from the high side walls. The versatility of the Unico System’s terminating outlets allow it to fit seamlessly into Fifteen’s open design. Available in a slotted, 1-inch x 8-inch configuration, this version was chosen over the round 2-inch inner diameter option as it better blended with the interior’s distinctive murals.

Air distribution with the Unico System provides two additional benefits. Conditioned air gently circulates within the room’s existing air currents, eliminating the drafts that often create guest discomfort in restaurants. This gentle mixing also eliminates the phenomena of stratification (that is, alternating hot and cold spots) associated with conventional forced air systems, instead maintaining even temperatures throughout the dining room.

Results

Not only does the Unico System practically disappear within the interior design of Fifteen, but guests and staff alike are kept comfortable during the ever-changing seaside weather. Kitchens can be frightfully hot places in which to work but, due to the open design plan and the superiority of the Unico System’s air delivery method, staff have remarked that Fifteen’s kitchen is the most comfortable they’ve ever experienced.

On the other hand, with hard-to-see visual evidence, no drafts and even temperatures, guests are hardly aware of the heating and cooling system and are not distracted from enjoying a wonderful, healthy meal in a beautiful setting.

If there were a Michelin rating for comfort, the Unico System would undoubtedly receive 3 stars.

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Lancaster Gate Apartments

Posted on 18th October 201928th October 2025 by kirk

Lancaster Gate Apartments

Luxury Cooling & Heating

We offer premium products and solutions by creating and designing systems that perfectly solve issues out clients have. This client required a space conscious and elegant solution making use of our luxury systems.

Unico System - Lancaster Gate Apartment - installation of a kitchen ventilation system

Unico System - Lancaster Gate Apartment - close up to one of the ventilation ports

Benefits

Energy Efficient
Even temperatures across the rooms
Very quiet
Discrete supply outlets
Flexible design and installation

“The Unico System provides design freedom to decorate an interior without having to consider the clutter of radiators or pipework.”

“There is less than 2°C temperature difference floor to ceiling.”

“The system is suitable for installation benefitting all types of rooms found in an apartment.”

Unico System - Lancaster Gate Apartment - Interior Image of large windows casting light across a wooden floor.

Unico System - Lancaster Gate Apartment - outlside of the property showing white brick decorative terraced property

Background

A twenty one mini-duct Unico System with high performance central cooling and heating systems has been installed at new luxury apartments in Lancaster Gate, London.

This is a high profile development with apartments expected to sell at the higher end of the London market. The increase of your property value is seen consistently in the UK, when you invest in Climate control and HVAC Systems.

Solution

The Unico System delivers both heating and air conditioning through small unobtrusive outlets at ceiling level. The whole system operates from a heat pump and overall it delivers 3kw of energy for every 1kw input, making it extremely energy efficient.

To provide both air conditioning and heating using a heat pump as the source, the Unico System features a heat pump coil. Air is pulled across the coils to provide either cool or warm air. Each apartment has its own system, whilst some of the larger apartments have two.

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