What Is an Air Handler: Everything You Need to Know

Professional Services
June 16, 2022

If you're asking, "What is an air handler?" you'll be happy to know we have the answer.

 

Although air handlers work simultaneously alongside heat pumps and air conditioners for a more efficient HVAC system, they all have different functions. We'll explore precisely what an air handler is and how an expert HVAC company in Grafton can help you decide if an air handler is correct for you. 


What Does an Air Handler Look Like and Do? 

An air handler largely resembles a furnace and is even a cased unit, just like a furnace. Most homeowners' air handler is an indoor unit consisting of evaporator coils, a blower, and ventilation parts, including an air filter. 

 

Your air handler is a crucial component of your HVAC system that works alongside your heat pump or air conditioner. Most air handlers are linked to already established ductwork, which transfers conditioned air throughout your home, giving it back to your air handler. 

 

Your air handler then takes this cool air (due to your evaporator coils removing its heat) and transfers it throughout the ducts in your home. This process is the primary function of your air handler and is an excellent asset to your HVAC cooling and heating system. 


Different Types of Air Handlers

There are also many different sizes of air handlers fit for other properties. For example, your typically small unit often only has a blower, evaporator coils, and an air filter. These air handlers are sometimes called fan coil units, terminal units, or blower coils. 

 

There are also larger air handlers called makeup air units (MAU). This air handler only conditions outside air instead of recirculating inside air. 

 

An air handler only designed for outdoor use is called a rooftop unit. This outdoor unit is typically located on the roof, as the name suggests. This outdoor unit is mainly for commercial use.


The Difference Between Air handlers and Air Conditioners

When asking, "What is an air handler?" many people question the difference between an air conditioner and an air handler. Sometimes these two terms are even used interchangeably, but while both an air conditioner and air handler work together, they have very different functions. 

 

The main difference is that an air conditioner cools your air by extracting heat, while an air handler transfers this cool air throughout your house. This confusion is that both units have coils, but an air handler can't function properly without an air conditioner. 


The Difference Between Air handlers and Furnaces

A furnace gets powered by oil, gas, or electricity to produce heat, and its blower distributes hot air throughout a residence. Creating and distributing hot air means that you generally won't need an air handler when you have a furnace. 

 

Instead of being used alongside furnaces, air handlers often accompany heat pumps. Heat pumps are an alternative to furnaces and are more efficient. They transport heat from outside into your home while your air handler distributes this heat. 

 

Although some air handlers do have their heating system, they best work as a way to regulate your indoor air versus being a source of heat. 


Reasons to Have an Air Handler

If you have a traditional gas, or electricity, you probably won't need an air handler. 

 

However, if you have or are considering an alternative such as an electric heat pump, investing in an air handler is a smart move. Some heat pump and air conditioner systems already come with an air handler. 

 

Besides what type of HVAC system you have, another factor determining whether you need an air handler is where you live. Colder climate homes typically use a furnace, meaning an air handler isn't necessary. 

 

Warmer climates that don't experience a lot of cold temperatures often don't use furnaces. Instead, they opt for heat pumps due to their efficiency. Southern regions use heat pumps more often than northern regions, for example. 

 

If you're using a heat pump, you'll want to pair it with an air handler as it can reduce wear and tear and extend your HVAC system's longevity. 


Signs You Need to Replace Your Air Handler

Knowing the answer to "What is an air handler?" also requires knowing how to troubleshoot issues. While air handlers are durable, nothing lasts forever. Signs you might need to replace your air handler are: 

 

  • Weak airflow: If the air coming out of your vents is weak or its strength changes throughout the day, then this may mean your blower motor is malfunctioning. Failure to repair or replace your blower motor can cause more strain to your air handler, eventually rendering it non-operational. Dirt can also impact your motor's ability to function, and it may just need a quick cleaning. 
  • Frozen air conditioner during summer: If ice is forming on your air handler during summer, there can be several reasons. Sometimes the cause is as simple as having a dirty or clogged air filter. Your evaporator coils may even need a quick cleaning. However, if you have a refrigerant leak, this might mean it's time to replace your air handler. 
  • Skyrocketing energy bills: While you're bound to see some hikes in your energy bills during seasons like winter or summer, if your accounts are unusually high, this can indicate an issue with your HVAC system. A faulty air handler, and various other potential problems, can cause huge spikes. 
  • An outdated HVAC system: The U.S. Department of Energy advises homeowners to replace their HVAC system every 10 or 15 years. After ten years, HVAC components can start cracking and breaking down, including your air handler. You should also have HVAC technicians regularly check your system for signs of damage. 


Call Professional Services Today

An air handler is an integral part of your HVAC system, which works alongside your air conditioner and heat pump. Its primary function is to circulate cool or warm air throughout your home, and it can be a significant investment that'll make your HVAC system run more efficiently. 

 

Let our team answer, "What is an air handler?" and help you learn more about air conditioning maintenance when you give us a call today at 262-218-2636!

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