High-velocity air conditioning systems are a perfect solution for adding central air conditioning to homes that aren’t compatible with traditional systems. Many older homes in the greater Boston area have space constraints or plaster walls that don’t allow them to fit the large ductwork used in traditional systems. That’s why high- velocity AC systems use smaller, flexible ducts to deliver cold air in a way that can be designed into any situation.
Boston Unique Indoor Comfort was deeply involved in the development of the high-velocity cooling principle, and we have been retrofitting homes with these systems for nearly 50 years. As a result, we’ve pioneered many of the current engineering practices and installation approaches. In short, if your situation requires a high-velocity solution, Unique Indoor Comfort’s unrivaled expertise means that you can be confident you’re making the best choice for your home.
Contact us today to discuss our services for high-velocity air conditioning in Boston and the surrounding areas.
How High-Velocity HVAC Systems Work
There are two defining parts of a high-velocity AC system. The first is its 2” flexible ducts that are responsible for delivering cool air throughout your home. These ducts can be easily engineered and maneuvered to fit within the framework of your existing home. In comparison, traditional ducts are commonly 6” in diameter and have large “trunklines” that are often 8”x18”. They generally require much more space to install, and often call for significant modification to the home’s design, like adding soffits and other architectural details.
The small size of these ducts means that air is delivered at nearly 4x the velocity of traditional systems, creating air currents that help to circulate air around the room. This prevents air stagnation and helps to ensure a more consistent temperature throughout your home.
The second key component of a high-velocity mini-duct system is the air handler. A high-velocity air handler is smaller than those often used in traditional central air service, meaning that it can easily fit into a small attic, crawlspace, or even a closet, keeping it hidden and out of the way.
Why High-Velocity Air Conditioning?
Evenly Cooled Environments
A high-velocity HVAC system’s ability to move air at four times the speed of a traditional air conditioning system means that hot air pockets don’t stay for long. By consistently moving hot air in this way, these systems are also capable of reducing in-home humidity by up to 30%. All of this ensures a more even, comfortable temperature during a Boston summer.
Efficient, Quiet Performance
Because high-velocity air conditioning creates a less humid environment, your system will no longer need to work as hard, and you will no longer hear the grinding gears of an outdated system. Less energy being spent and smaller ducts mean quieter and more efficient operation.
Quick & Easy Installation
Adding high-velocity AC to older homes in the Boston area is a much simpler process than adding traditional air ducts for central AC. It is installed without invasive construction or much modification, so the process of getting it up and running in your home is painless. The size and flexibility of high-velocity mini ducts also mean that vent placement isn’t dictated by house and room design, but where you want them. This makes it particularly useful for adding AC to an older home that doesn’t already have ductwork.
Considerations for Your Home
Cost
Retrofitting a central air conditioning system into a home requires a significant up-front investment when compared to the cost of window units and split-type systems. However, high-velocity air conditioning is proven to save money long-term, as its efficient operation and ease of installation mean energy and maintenance bills will be at a minimum. You can also finance through the Mass Save Program for high-velocity installation with a heat pump. Up to 50K 0% interest for 84 months.
High Velocity Air
The higher velocity at which these systems operate means airflow in your home will feel noticeably faster. While this does serve to cut down on humidity and improve the overall efficiency of the system, it is important to note the sensation of a draft as high-velocity systems operate.
Air Source Heat Pump Rebates
| Rebate Type | Rebate Amount | Federal Tax Credit |
| Whole-Home | $10,000 per home | Up to $2,000 |
| Partial-Home | $1,250 per ton* up to $10,000 | Up to $2,000 |
Cost Example
Below are cost examples of installing a whole-home heat pump.
| Standard Incentive | |
| Average Installation Cost | $22,000 |
| Mass Save Rebate (Whole-Home) | $10,000 |
| Federal Tax Credit | $2,000 |
| Net Project Cost | $10,000 |
Our High-Velocity HVAC Services in Greater Boston
If you are interested in a high-velocity mini-duct system in the Boston area, our experts at Unique Indoor Comfort are ready to help. As leading experts on high-velocity HVAC systems, we provide professional installations, with solutions especially well suited to Boston’s older homes. Our team has decades of experience retrofitting homes with high-velocity systems, using compact air handlers and flexible 2-inch ductwork that can be routed through walls, floors, closets, attics, and other tight spaces. This allows us to design an efficient whole-home comfort system around your home’s existing architecture while minimizing disruption to plaster walls, historic details, and valuable living space.
Our expertise continues well beyond installation. If you already have high-velocity air conditioning in Boston or the surrounding areas, we provide ongoing support with repair and maintenance services. If you’re experiencing uneven temperatures, weak airflow, unusual system behavior, or another performance issue, our technicians can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repair. Regular maintenance can also improve efficiency, reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns, and help extend equipment life, which gives you dependable comfort from your high-velocity system for years to come.
Why Greater Boston Chooses Unique Indoor Comfort
From new high-velocity system installations to repairs and routine maintenance, Boston Unique Indoor Comfort provides the expertise Greater Boston homeowners need for dependable year-round comfort. Reasons to choose us for high-velocity HVAC services include:
- Experienced high-velocity HVAC specialists
- 45+ years of experience serving the Boston area
- Expertise in Greater Boston’s older and historic homes
- Comprehensive installation, repair, and maintenance services
- Quality workmanship and dependable service
Ready to improve your home comfort? Contact us today to schedule high-velocity HVAC services in Greater Boston.
Want to Learn More About High-Velocity AC System Maintenance, Repair, & Installation?
Have any more questions, or interested in installing a high-velocity air conditioner unit in your home? The experts at Unique Indoor Comfort would love to help!
FAQs
What is the best location to install a high-velocity air handler?
The best location for a high-velocity air handler depends on your situation, but we prefer to start as high up in the home as possible. It is easier to push the air down throughout the home as opposed to pushing it up into the rising hot air. Remember hot air rises, so cold air falls! The most popular locations for installation are the attic and top floor knee walls or closets.
Can a high-velocity AC system work with existing ductwork?
Unfortunately, no. A high-velocity system uses unique insulated 2” flexible ductwork that is specially designed to deliver air quietly and efficiently at increased speeds. This ductwork can be fished through closets, walls, and floors in order to not take up living space.
Can I also run my home’s heat through a high-velocity system?
While rare, we are able to install two options for heating through a high-velocity system. For more information, reach our team today.
How long do high-velocity air conditioning systems last?
With proper installation and maintenance, high-velocity systems can last up to 20 years.
How much does a high-velocity system cost?
Because of the ductwork installation, high-velocity systems can vary from $28,000 to $60,000. However, high velocity air conditioning is proven to save money long-term. High Velocity systems are extremely efficient which lowers energy bills. Ease of installation also means maintenance bills will be at a minimum.
Is a high-velocity system right for my older home?
Installing high-velocity AC in older homes is often a great choice, especially for older homes without ductwork. High-velocity HVAC systems only use small, flexible ducts that can be routed through tight spaces, which is less disruptive than adding traditional bulky ductwork.
How is high-velocity AC different from central AC?
Traditional central AC typically relies on large ducts and vents to distribute conditioned air. High-velocity systems use much smaller ducts and outlets to move air at a higher velocity. Their compact design makes them particularly useful for older homes and other properties where installing conventional ductwork would be difficult.
Request a Quote Today
Contact us today at (978) 330-7460 or complete the brief form below. A Unique Indoor Comfort representative will get back to you within 24 hours.