PHAM NEWS | FEBRUARY 2026 26 Products in Action


Combo system delivers on efficiency


A large bungalow has undergone a new type of HVAC replacement that combines Unico’s 3-in-1 heating, ventilation and cooling system with a Vaillant air source heat pump and its supporting controls. The two integrated systems achieved a standout heat rating of 4.4 Coefficient of Performance (COP) as one of the first integrations of these two technologies. The homeowner’s main


priorities was to find a solution that would avoid the costly installation and disruption of underfloor heating, with an aim to minimise the bungalow’s carbon footprint, to maximise both energy efficiency and year-round comfort, all with an excellent COP.


via multiple branches of fully insulated and sound attenuated flexible supply ducting to 25 ceiling mounted round room outlets throughout the accommodation. Just 89mm in diameter, the size and flexibility of the ducting provided more layout options and easier installation, which took only five days to complete. The integration of the Unico


The Unico System’s


3-in-1 heating, cooling and ventilation capability stood out for homeowner Matt Inch, whose research led him to local contractor JLN Plumbing Heating & Electrics, a registered Unico System Specialist Partner (USP) with over 25 years’ experience in the industry.


Drainage adapted to recover shower waste-water heat


As part of a wider energy- efficiency strategy, Showersave waste-water heat recovery systems (WWHRS) were installed within the shower facilities at Currie Community High School in Edinburgh. The installation forms part of a building designed to meet Passivhaus performance requirements, where limiting energy demand across all services was a central consideration. The Showersave systems were


fitted to recover heat from waste water generated during shower use and transfer it to incoming cold water before it reaches the hot water source. This reduces the amount of energy required for water heating and operates continuously during use. The units are integrated into the shower drainage system and function without any input


/year. The installation contributes to lower hot water demand and supports whole-building energy targets. The systems contain no moving parts, incorporate a built-in overflow for safety, and are intended for long-term operation. The showers are used by both students and the wider community during extended hours. Currie Community High


from users. It is estimated that the WWHRS can achieve a reduction in the demand for hot water from the heat source by up to 50%, helping meet an operational target of 67 kWh/ m2


School is only the third school in Scotland to be built to Passivhaus standards and is expected to consume 70% less energy than a conventional school. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/36


“This was one of our first


opportunities to combine the Unico Small Duct High Velocity central air distribution system and a Vaillant heat pump and we’re delighted with the COP rating,” says Jim Lacey, director of JLN. “It was very suitable for this bungalow as the installation is non-disruptive, and with both


heating and comfort cooling, it is a far more versatile option than underfloor heating.” A customised HVAC system


was designed for the bungalow, with the compact unit positioned in the loft and the main central duct configured in a U-shape layout above all the rooms. Heated or cooled air is delivered


System with the Vaillant aroTHERM Plus 7kW Heat Pump, together with its complementary control system, has resulted in an even, year-round internal temperature. It also provides draft-free cooling. Notable savings on the home’s


electricity bills are already being achieved. The system achieved a heating rate 4.4 COP in March 2025, a 3.2 hot water COP in May and a 4.8 cooling COP in July, with the heat pump producing 4.8 units of cooling for every one unit of electricity consumed. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/35


Waterproofing a steam room


A home steam room installation has been completed using Schlüter- Systems waterproofing and uncoupling products, with the work focused on managing heat, moisture and vapour in an enclosed space. The installation incorporated Schlüter- KERDI-DS and Schlüter-DITRA, each selected for their intended use in high-humidity environments. Walls and ceilings were prepared


using Schlüter-KERDI-DS, a bonded waterproofing membrane with vapour barrier properties. The membrane was installed over the prepared substrate and sealed at joints, corners, and transitions to form a continuous vapour-tight layer before tiling. Its use is intended to limit moisture transmission into the underlying structure in areas exposed to sustained steam. On the floor, Schlüter-DITRA was installed beneath the tiled


surface. This uncoupling membrane is designed to separate the tiles from the substrate, helping to accommodate minor movement while also providing waterproofing, vapour pressure equalisation and load distribution. The installation prioritised product compatibility and detailing appropriate for steam room conditions. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/37


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40