In the world of modern home construction, where energy efficiency and indoor comfort are non-negotiable, traditional HVAC systems often fall short. Enter Small Duct High Velocity (SDHV) technology, a game-changer for high-end builders and homeowners alike. At Cobalt Creed, we specialize in delivering the Unico System, the leading SDHV HVAC solution designed specifically for homes with tight thermal envelopes. Founded on a legacy that began in 1985 when Joe Intagliata created the Unico Corporation in St. Louis, Missouri, Cobalt Creed continues this tradition by providing factory-direct access to this innovative technology. Our mission is simple: bring incredible indoor environments to your customers at the lowest possible cost, with unmatched service and support.
What sets the Unico System apart? Unlike conventional ductwork that requires bulky, space and architecturally compromising large rectangular duct work for the main plenum (up to 30” x 10” size), Unico systems use a main plenum small that averages 8” round or equivalent with small 4” OD flexible ducts—2” ID—that can be easily routed through existing structures or new builds without compromising aesthetics. This is particularly ideal for high-performance homes where insulation levels are high, and air leakage is minimal. The system excels in moisture management, ensuring indoor humidity stays balanced to prevent issues like mold growth, a common problem in tightly sealed modern homes. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is another cornerstone; the high-velocity airflow promotes constant circulation at lower air volumes, filtering out allergens and pollutants more effectively than low-velocity alternatives. In fact the Unico blower technology is designed to filter air inside the built space to MERV 14 (hospital level) with no reduction in the efficiency of the blower motor.
Cobalt Creed’s approach goes beyond just selling equipment. We offer comprehensive engineering services tailored to your project. As highlighted on our website, “Cobalt will engineer your system and from the engineering create a duct design and layout. The duct design then is our basis to create a part-by-part material list.” This means builders receive a detailed, customized design that includes Manual J heat gain and heat loss calculations based on your floor plans and building criteria—such as wall R-values, ceiling R, window U-factors, and solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC). These calculations ensure precise BTU requirements per room, delivering the comfort your clients expect without over or under sizing the system.
Energy efficiency is at the heart of the Unico System. By mixing conditioned air with room air at high velocity (between 1400 and 1600 feet per minute FPM at the outlet), it achieves even temperature distribution across the space, reducing hot and cold spots. The airflow at the outlet creates a negative pressure around its very directed air stream, very gently pulling the air in the room into its stream of air. This mixing of the air in each space eliminates temperature stratification-designed properly the Unico System will have less than 2 degrees temperature difference across the built space. This leads to lower energy consumption—often 20-30% savings compared to traditional systems—while maintaining whisper-quiet operation. The system’s compatibility with smart thermostats and home automation platforms further enhances this, allowing seamless integration with systems like Honeywell, Nest, Ecobee and other control manufacturers for remote control and zoning.
Our direct-from-factory model eliminates middlemen, passing savings directly to you. As noted on cobaltcreed.com, “Delivery is direct to you from our factory. Freight cost to you in many cases is minimal or sometimes ZERO with the requisite sized purchase order.” This buying power not only cuts costs but also speeds up timelines. We’ve supported diverse projects, from the historic renovation of St. Louis University High School’s church to a rustic cabin in Montana and modular developments like the MODULE Black Street project. These case studies demonstrate the Unico System’s versatility, whether retrofitting older structures or building anew.
Onsite support is another pillar of our service. Cobalt Creed works hands-on with contractors and builders to ensure proper installation, minimizing errors and maximizing performance. We even provide training resources to keep your team aligned with best practices. For high-end builders passionate about delivering superior indoor environments, partnering with Cobalt Creed means prioritizing IAQ, comfort, and efficiency without the premium price tag.
In an era where sustainable building is paramount, SDHV technology like the Unico System positions your projects as leaders in green construction. It’s not just about cooling or heating—it’s about creating homes that breathe easy, stay comfortable year-round, and stand out in a competitive market.
Key Takeaways:
- Custom Engineering at No Extra Cost: Cobalt Creed provides free duct design, layout, and Manual J calculations based on your project specs, ensuring a perfectly tailored Unico System as detailed on our website.
- Superior IAQ and Efficiency: The high-velocity airflow of the Unico System enhances moisture control and even temperature distribution, leading to better indoor air quality and up to 30% energy savings.
- Factory-Direct Savings: Enjoy zero freight costs in most cases and custom pricing direct from the manufacturer, making high-performance HVAC accessible for builders and developers.
