John Hochreiner of Tesco Distributors, an HVAC wholesaler, knew he had a product that could solve the problem. He proposed installing the Unico System, manufactured by Unico, Inc. The system is a high-velocity, miniduct HVAC system specifically designed for applications with strict space constraints. It uses compact, modular air handlers, a 7-in. main trunk line, and 3-1/2-in. outer diameter flexible supply tubing, eliminating the need for traditional, "boxy" metal ducts. Unico System outlets consist of 5-in. outer dia and 2-in. inner dia circular plates that are available in paintable plastic or stainable wood so that they can be matched to blend in with any d?r.
Assured about the system's super-quiet air delivery, the college administrators hired Airdyne, Inc., a Bronx-based contractor, to install 11 Unico System five-ton air handlers in conjunction with York condensing units. The systems were also "sistered" to King Hall's existing basement boiler to provide additional heat. Because of its flexibility, the system was easily adapted to the boiler (which is the size of a small garage), thereby avoiding costly removal and remedial charges.