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Air ConditioningHome Efficiency & ImprovementJanuary 07, 2026
Is a High Velocity System Right for You?
Have you ever been told that a high velocity system may be right for your home, but aren’t quite sure what that means? You’re not alone, and we’re here to help. We’ll go over exactly what a high velocity system is, how to know if it’s right for your home, and the benefits and general price ranges of popular system options.
You may be wondering: how exactly does this work? These smaller ducts and the fast-moving air create more efficiency compared to a regular unit. Air is distributed in shorter, controlled bursts that spread more evenly throughout your home which help eliminate hot and cold spots. With small and compact ductwork, installation for high velocity systems can reach places that traditional systems cannot fit, while preserving the look of your home without large and bulky ducts.
Before making the final decision, there are certain types of homes we recommend for installing a high velocity system due to the added benefits they provide.
While high velocity systems offer these benefits, there are a few factors to consider. Installation costs are typically higher than traditional HVAC systems due to specialized equipment and labor. Since these systems require precise design and installation, it’s important to work with experienced technicians. In some cases, improper installation can lead to increased noise or reduced efficiency.
Prices for high velocity systems vary depending on your home’s size and layout, as well as the brand and model of the system. Generally, a full installation can range from $10,000 to $20,000, though larger homes or more complex installations may exceed this range.
A popular and reliable option that Ace Hardware Home Services installs is Unico. Unico high velocity systems typically fall on the higher end of the price range due to their modular design and specialized components. For a complete Unico system installation homeowners can expect average pricing to range from $18,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the system size, installation complexity, and home layout.
Unico systems are built using individual modules, including air handlers, coils, and flexible small-duct tubing. While the upfront cost may be higher than a traditional HVAC system, many homeowners choose Unico for its performance, efficiency, and ability to be installed with minimal structural impact.
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What Is a High Velocity System?
With the many types of HVAC systems, it can be a challenge to understand how a high velocity system is different. Simply put, a high velocity system uses the same basic functions as a traditional HVAC system but is faster and smaller. While a traditional system uses large volumes of slow-moving air, a high velocity system is an advanced climate system that uses smaller ducts to distribute airflow at a higher speed.You may be wondering: how exactly does this work? These smaller ducts and the fast-moving air create more efficiency compared to a regular unit. Air is distributed in shorter, controlled bursts that spread more evenly throughout your home which help eliminate hot and cold spots. With small and compact ductwork, installation for high velocity systems can reach places that traditional systems cannot fit, while preserving the look of your home without large and bulky ducts.
Benefits Of a High Velocity System
There are several benefits that installation of a high velocity system offers that make it a smart choice for homeowners.Better Humidity Control
High velocity systems are designed to remove moisture from the air more effectively than traditional systems. This helps maintain a more comfortable indoor environment, especially during humid months, and can also help reduce the risk of mold and mildew in the home.Space-Saving
Because high velocity systems use small and flexible ductwork, they require far less space than traditional HVAC systems. These ducts can be installed inside walls, ceilings, and tight spaces making them ideal for homes where large ductwork is not practical.Quieter Operation
Despite moving air at a higher speed, high velocity systems are designed to operate quietly. The air is delivered through insulated tubing and specialized outlets that reduce noise which results in minimal sound when the system is running.Improved Indoor Air Quality
Many high velocity systems include advanced filtration that helps reduce dust, allergens, and airborne particles. This can lead to cleaner air throughout the home and a healthier living environment for occupants.Is a High Velocity System Right For My Home?
Does a high velocity system sound more effective than your current system, or are you dealing with performance issues with your traditional HVAC system? Don’t hesitate to call our technicians for an evaluation to see if a high velocity system is right for your home.Before making the final decision, there are certain types of homes we recommend for installing a high velocity system due to the added benefits they provide.
Older Homes
If you have an older home or even a historic property, high velocity systems are effective choices because they can be installed with limited changes to the structure of the home. This allows homeowners to preserve architectural details while still upgrading comfort.New Construction
New construction homes can also benefit from installing a high velocity system. These systems may decrease overall installation costs and simplify the process by eliminating the need for extensive traditional ductwork throughout the home.Limited Space
Homes that lack room for a traditional HVAC system and the ductwork it requires are perfect for high velocity systems. Examples include townhomes, condos, and homes with low ceilings. This also applies to homes with limited crawlspace or attic space. The flexible installation and compact design offer minimal disruption to your home’s appearance while still providing efficient comfort.While high velocity systems offer these benefits, there are a few factors to consider. Installation costs are typically higher than traditional HVAC systems due to specialized equipment and labor. Since these systems require precise design and installation, it’s important to work with experienced technicians. In some cases, improper installation can lead to increased noise or reduced efficiency.
High Velocity General Price Ranges
Searching for any type of system can be daunting. With so many types available at different prices, we know it’s difficult to find the best option for your home.Prices for high velocity systems vary depending on your home’s size and layout, as well as the brand and model of the system. Generally, a full installation can range from $10,000 to $20,000, though larger homes or more complex installations may exceed this range.
A popular and reliable option that Ace Hardware Home Services installs is Unico. Unico high velocity systems typically fall on the higher end of the price range due to their modular design and specialized components. For a complete Unico system installation homeowners can expect average pricing to range from $18,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the system size, installation complexity, and home layout.
Unico systems are built using individual modules, including air handlers, coils, and flexible small-duct tubing. While the upfront cost may be higher than a traditional HVAC system, many homeowners choose Unico for its performance, efficiency, and ability to be installed with minimal structural impact.
Call Ace Hardware Home Services Today
Want to learn more about high velocity systems? Call your local Ace Hardware Home Service location now!Click here to find an Ace Hardware Home Service location near you.
