PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2026 26 Training& Education


Learning about an all-in-one solution


Unico’s small duct high velocity (SDHV) technology represents an all- in-one heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, promising to deliver reduced humidity, improved air quality and a space-saving heating solution. MD Richard Soper explains how the system works and the opportunity for installers to get up to speed.


the role of the installer/HVAC engineer is changing rapidly. Delivering modern homes is no longer just about installing a heat source – today’s buildings require controlled airfl ow, eff ective ventilation, good indoor air quality (IAQ), and reliable heat pump integration that work together as one system. Tighter building envelopes,


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higher insulation levels and stricter regulations mean there is far less margin for error. Poor airfl ow design, incorrect commissioning or a misunderstanding of how systems interact can quickly lead to complaints, effi ciency losses and callbacks, so the need for high-quality, practical training is more important than ever. For many installers, skills have


traditionally been developed over time by learning from repeat installations and solving problems as they arise onsite. Although this approach worked with legacy heating systems, it is far less eff ective in today’s low-temperature, low-carbon environment. Heat pumps, mechanical


ventilation and modern distribution systems behave very diff erently from traditional boilers and radiators. Issues such


s the UK construction sector accelerates towards low- carbon buildings,


as noise, uneven temperatures or poor IAQ are often not visible at fi rst fi x, only appearing once a building is occupied, which is why understanding airfl ow, pressure and system balance is becoming just as important as pipework or electrical connections.


Richard Soper Managing director of Unico for Europe


Practical learning One of the most eff ective ways to close this knowledge gap is hands-on training using live, working HVAC systems, such as our Unico specialist training centre based in Birmingham. Being able to see and interact with an operating installation gives a far better understanding than classroom theory alone. Live systems allow trainees to:


• Observe airfl ow and pressure


Blended learning models that


combine practical sessions with online modules provide an opportunity to develop new skills without extended time away from site


 Installers from Total Renewable Solutions


undergoing training at Unico’s training centre in Birmingham


distribution in real time • See the eff ect of poor


detailing or incorrect duct sizing • Understand commissioning,


balancing and optimisation in practice This approach is especially


valuable for anyone working on apartments, retrofi t projects or homes where space constraints demand more careful planning. Rather than learning through trial and error on-site, professionals can build confi dence in a controlled training environment.


Airfl ow and IAQ With increasing attention on occupant health and wellbeing, as well as the health of the building, ventilation and IAQ are now core parts of system design. Regulations such as Building Regulations Part O and Awaab’s Law highlight the risks of poor ventilation, particularly in airtight dwellings. This means ventilation can no longer be treated as an afterthought. The training therefore needs to cover:


• Correct airfl ow rates and distribution


• Balancing supply and extract • Managing moisture,


pollutants and temperature Systems that combine heating,


cooling and ventilation require the installer to take a whole-


building approach, considering how each element aff ects comfort and performance throughout the property.


Heat pump integration Heat pumps continue to be widely specifi ed, but system performance depends heavily on how eff ectively heat is distributed. Poor compatibility between the heat source and the distribution system can lead to ineffi ciency, noise issues and dissatisfi ed clients. A training environment that


includes multiple heat pump brands working alongside ventilation systems allows trainees to understand these integration challenges before encountering them on site and provides exposure to diff erent confi gurations. Rather than promoting a single solution, this multi-brand approach also helps to develop transferable knowledge across diff erent projects.


Training programme As systems become more technical, informal learning is increasingly being replaced by structured training programmes. Modular training covering system design, installation, commissioning, servicing and optimisation provides a clearer progression route. Blended learning models


that combine practical sessions with online modules provide an opportunity to develop new skills without extended time away from the site. Importantly, CIPHE- accredited training pathways also provide formal recognition of competence, off ering reassurance to employers, housing providers and specifi ers. Eff ective programmes address


real-world compliance by referencing the regulations that installers encounter every day, such as Building Regulations Part L and Part O, the Future Homes Standard, as well as SAP and HEM


methodologies. Understanding how installation


decisions aff ect energy performance calculations and regulatory sign-off also enables HVAC engineers to engage more confi dently with designers, assessors and building control offi cers.


Unico training options To support installers at all stages of their development, we off er a range of fl exible training options:


• Online training through Unico


University and a CPD module available on the website


• In-person training at our


dedicated, state-of-the-art training centre


• On-site training support


during a fi rst Unico installation, providing practical guidance and confi dence in real project conditions This blended approach


ensures learning is accessible, practical and directly relevant to real installations. The modern installer is expected to understand more than individual components – success now depends on knowledge of airfl ow, comfort dynamics, low-carbon integration and regulatory compliance. Hands-on, system-based


training that mirrors real installation challenges, is playing an increasingly important role in preparing installers/HVAC engineers for the future, not just to meet standards, but to deliver buildings and homes that perform as intended.


Join the network We are actively looking for skilled and motivated HVAC engineers to become Unico System Partners (USPs). If you are interested in expanding your expertise and working with innovative HVAC solutions, we would welcome the opportunity to support your journey. For more details, please use the online link below ◼ phamnews.co.uk/626/27


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