All in One Home Renovation Solution
Indeed, the compatibility of the Unico System with renewables was essential. A Daikin Altherma Low Temperature Split Air Source Heat Pump was selected as the matching energy source for the heating and cooling to the first floor of the property. The heat pump is linked to the space saving horizontal Unico 1218 Air Handling Unit situated in the loft space 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, replacing the radiators which took up so much wall space. On the property’s ground floor underfloor heating has been installed where ducts could not be retrofitted.
Convenient use of the loft space for the compact air handler, ductwork and flexible supply tubing was a key advantage when retrofitting the Unico systm into an older property. From an installation viewpoint, the lightweight modular ductwork promotes safe, easy handling and time savings. The air handler isolates noise and vibration with sound deadening insulation, meaning it could be located immediately above the main bedroom without any risk of noise disruption.
Equally, the flow of air through the supply tubing and into the room through the outlets generates minimal noise. Once the heated or cooled air enters the bedroom it creates a draught free, even environment with minimal temperature fluctuations. The Unico system removes 30% more humidity from the air compared with conventional heating and air conditioning systems and has a significant role to play in improving air quality and preventing the formation of unhealthy damp and mould.
The system is controlled through a Nest home automation system and thermostat which is suited to the functionality and operation of the Unico system. It provides further energy savings by learning preferences and automatically adjusting heating and cooling levels.
To maximise the energy efficiency of the installation and further improve indoor air quality,
additional technologies were added. Battery storage, running on an overnight low cost tariff, stores electricity for lighter duty appliance power consumption during the day. An intelligent hot water tank delivers precise amounts of hot water specifically when needed. To complement the air filtration and reduced humidity levels provided by the Unico system, additional bipolar ionisation technology provides continuous air purification within the home to eradicate the smallest particulate and viruses.
The owner commented: “ There may not be a better time to consider small duct HVAC technology. We take climate control in our cars for granted, yet when it comes to our homes we are far more circumspect and air conditioning is still seen as something of a luxury. But times are changing and Unico as an all inone system for heating, cooling, ventilation and indoor air quality, demonstrates that you can have your cake and eat it – maximum comfort, energy efficiency, straightforward installation and lower CO2 emissions all in one system.“
