• Unico System Selected for Energy Challenge Home

    Jan. 9, 2013
    The Challenge Home program represents a new level of home energy performance based on rigorous requirements, which are designed to ensure exceptional levels of energy savings, home comfort, health and durability.

    Unico, Inc. announced in December that its Unico System will be installed in a U.S. Department of Energy Challenge Home, a first for the company.

    Originally known as the DOE Builders Challenge, the Challenge Home program represents a new level of home energy performance based on rigorous requirements, which are designed to ensure exceptional levels of energy savings, home comfort, health and durability.

    “Unico is very excited to have our small-duct, high-velocity HVAC system installed for the first time in a DOE Challenge Home,” said Randy Neiderer, LEED AP, Vice President, Marketing, Unico, Inc. “For the Unico System to meet the energy requirements of this home is a testament to our commitment to sustainability through green building initiatives.”

    The new Challenge Home is part of a 26-home development currently under construction in the Chicago suburb of Libertyville, IL.  Developer John McLinden and his team have incorporated energy efficiency into the design of every new home. 

    The Challenge Home takes energy efficiency to a higher level.  In addition to the Unico System, the home will be built with insulation levels higher than code, advanced water distribution systems that will reduce yearly wasted water by up to 6,000 gallons, and advanced appliances and lighting, including the use of mostly LED lighting fixtures.

    Construction of the home is scheduled to be completed sometime in the spring of 2013.