If you’re searching for heating and cooling services, you may find confusing, sometimes contradictory information about a variety of HVAC systems. One component that creates plenty of confusion is the air handler. Is this the equivalent of an air conditioner? We’re here to set the record straight.
What Is an Air Handler?
An air handler is the indoor part of some types of HVAC systems. It attaches to a network of air ducts that distribute conditioned air through the building. Air handlers range in size, type and capacity, depending on the application.
Some individuals use the jargon of “air handler” and “blower” interchangeably, but this is not accurate. An air handler is an entire unit containing a blower and numerous other components, all of which operate together to condition and circulate the air.
Does an Air Conditioner Use an Air Handler?
Usually, an air conditioner shares the furnace’s blower motor, so no air handler is needed. However, in weather where home heating is not something that is necessary, an air conditioner may be the sole HVAC equipment present. In this situation, the indoor air handler runs in conjunction with the outside unit, known as the condenser. In this setup, the AC unit’s air handler blows indoor air across the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat and collects moisture, leaving the air handler to circulate cooled, dehumidified air back to the building through ductwork. Refrigerant lines attach the air handler to the outdoor condenser, enabling the heat transfer to the outside. This allows air conditioning to maintain a constant, comfortable indoor temperature and humidity level.
Does a Heat Pump Use an Air Handler?
This is where air handlers are most frequently found. In cold climates where heat pumps are less dependable, they are sometimes installed alongside furnaces, creating what’s known as a dual-fuel system. However, advancements in cold-climate heat pumps make dual-fuel systems less popular these days. With no furnace to lend its blower motor, heat pumps require a dedicated air handler to move conditioned air.
Heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outside air and moving it inside through the indoor coil. The air handler blows air across the coil to obtain heat before circulating it throughout the building. A heat pump can even be used for cooling, where it pulls heat from the indoor air and moves it outside, just like an air conditioner.
Does a Furnace Use an Air Handler?
No. Furnaces come with a blower motor to distribute conditioned air. The blower is usually housed within the furnace. It pushes air across the heat exchanger, a metal component that exchanges heat from a fuel source to the air blowing past it. The fuel source can be natural gas, propane or oil, which is ignited to create heat. Once warmed, the air circulates back through the ductwork system and inside the building.
What Are the Parts of an Air Handler?
The main components of an air handler include:
- Blower: The blower is a motor-driven fan that disperses air by way of the ductwork. It moves air across the heating or cooling elements to regulate the indoor temperature.
- Heating or cooling elements: Depending on the type of HVAC system you have installed in your home, the air handler may have heating or cooling elements, including an evaporator coil or backup electric heat strip.
- Air filter: An HVAC air filter takes dust, dirt and other impurities from the air as it goes into the air handler to be heated or cooled. Air filter types and efficiency ratings vary depending on system requirements. Remember to swap out your air filter on a regular basis to protect against restricting airflow through the system.
- Dampers: Dampers are used to control airflow in properties with zoned heating and cooling. They can be manually or automatically controlled to direct air to certain rooms as needed to uphold a comfortable temperature.
- Humidifier or dehumidifier: Some air handlers contain a humidifier or dehumidifier, which controls the indoor relative humidity level. A humidifier puts moisture into the air in the winter, while a dehumidifier takes out moisture in the summer.
- Control system: The control system is responsible for regulating the air handler. It might include a thermostat, humidistat or other sensors to track the temperature and humidity throughout the building.
Schedule Air Conditioner or Air Handler Repair
If you’re experiencing issues with your air conditioner, air handler or other HVAC components, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to assist you. Our crew of experienced techs can diagnose and repair any problems with your climate control system, so that it runs safely and efficiently. We believe in our exceptional work so much that we stand behind each and every repair with a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! For more information or to set your home up air conditioning repair in North America, please reach out to a Service Experts office in your area today.