From Victorian to Mid-Century Modern: How Unico Fits Any Older Home

One of the charms of owning an older home is enjoying the period craftmanship that went into its construction. The old cliché, “they don’t build them like they used to” is readily evident in older homes that have structural and finishing details that are no longer seen in modern homes.

However, an HVAC solution that fits with and doesn’t disrupt the artistry of these homes can be a challenge. Let alone one that provides lasting comfort and energy efficiency. This is exactly why The Unico System small-duct high velocity solution was created.

Many older homes relied on steam systems for heat or were built before the inclusion of ductwork for air conditioning. These homes often lack the necessary space to run traditional ducts without major renovations or compromises to the living space’s architectural aesthetics. In many of these homes, plaster and lathe walls reduce the interior wall cavity space, and floor joists weren’t built to modern sizing standards.

The Unico System was designed with the space limitations of these homes in mind. Unico ducts are engineered to fit within small areas in existing walls and ceilings. Unico System supply ducts are only 2 inches in diameter, making it easy to work them into almost any older home structure. They’re also flexible, which gives HVAC contractors the ability to thread them through spaces that can’t fit traditional ducts.

Another advantage The Unico System has for older homes is the air handling unit (AHU). With traditional HVAC systems, the AHU is often large and box-shaped, which makes it difficult to find space to accommodate it. The Unico System AHU is small and compact enough to fit in tight attics, crawlspaces, cubby holes, or even small closets.

And the system’s main trunk ducting, or plenum, is one-third the size of traditional forced air ducting, allowing it to fit in cramped areas. It’s just another way Unico makes older homes more comfortable without the need for extensive renovations.

Lastly, The Unico System uses discreet outlets rather than conventional rectangular registers. They are available in round and slotted configurations that can easily be further customized and can be painted, stained, or wall-papered to match the aesthetic style of your older home. The unique look of your older home will remain unchanged since Unico outlets virtually disappear in the existing decor.

So, whether your home is Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, Federalist, Victorian, or Mid-Century Modern, The Unico System is the perfect HVAC solution. Since its inception, The Unico System has been installed in all these home styles and more, including many properties listed on national, state, and local historic registries.

Supported by Old House Journal and Arts & Crafts Homes as a premier choice for small-duct HVAC in historic and home preservation. Old House Journal helps you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. Find how-to stories, design ideas, and hard-to-find products.

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_{Photos courtesy of Unico. Click here to read the original article on Fine Homebuilding.}