Air handlers are key components in HVAC systems, yet they often go unnoticed compared to furnaces or air conditioners. If you’ve come across the term “air handler” and wondered what it is or what it does, you’re not alone.
An air handler plays an essential role in keeping your home comfortable by circulating and regulating indoor air. Whether you’re managing heating, cooling, or maintaining air quality, an air handler is a vital piece of your HVAC system puzzle.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this blog post:
- What an air handler is and how it works
- 5 crucial things you should know about air handlers
- Maintenance tips to keep your air handler running smoothly
🤔 What Is an Air Handler and How Does It Work?
An air handler is a metal encased unit that looks similar to a furnace. Its primary job is to circulate air throughout your home. It contains essential components like a fan, evaporator coil (for cooling), and filters. Together, these parts help distribute warm or cool air efficiently and keep your home comfortable all year long.
Unlike a furnace, which generates heat, or an air conditioner, which cools air, the air handler works as the circulatory system of your HVAC system. It pushes the conditioned air (heated or cooled) into your ductwork and distributes it across your home.
Are Air Handlers and Furnaces the Same?
A common misconception is that air handlers and furnaces are interchangeable. However, they are two different HVAC components. While both look similar and are used in climate control, their functions set them apart:
- Furnace: Generates heat using fuel, such as gas or electricity.
- Air Handler: Circulates and distributes heated or cooled air; often used in homes with heat pumps.
⭐️ 5 Things You Should Know About Air Handlers
Air handlers are essential for maintaining proper airflow and temperature in your HVAC system, ensuring your home or business stays comfortable year-round. Understanding how they work can help improve energy efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.
1. They Work with Heat Pumps
Air handlers are a critical component in homes with heat pump systems. Heat pumps work by transferring heat from one area to another, whether it’s moving heat into your home during the winter or extracting it during the summer. The air handler plays an essential role in this process by distributing the conditioned air throughout your living spaces, ensuring that every room remains comfortable. Without an air handler, the heat pump cannot function effectively, leaving your home unevenly heated or cooled.
2. They Have Built-In Evaporator Coils
To keep your home cool during hot weather, air handlers are equipped with evaporator coils. These coils work by absorbing heat from the air that passes over them. The refrigerant inside the coils takes this heat and transfers it out of your home, leaving the air cooler. The cooled air is then circulated into your living spaces, providing relief from the heat. This process is vital for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, especially during the summer months.
3. They’re Equipped with Filters for Clean Air
Air handlers don’t just control the temperature in your home—they also improve the air quality. They come with built-in filters that trap airborne particles such as dust, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens. This filtration process ensures that the air circulating throughout your home is clean and healthier to breathe. By removing these particles, air handlers can help reduce allergy symptoms and create a more comfortable environment, particularly for those with respiratory issues.
4. They Require Regular Maintenance
Like any other home appliance, air handlers need regular maintenance to operate at their best. Over time, filters can become clogged with dust and debris, which reduces airflow and forces the system to work harder, lowering efficiency. Fans and other components can also wear out or become dirty, further impacting performance. Regular maintenance checks, including cleaning or replacing filters and inspecting components, ensure that your air handler operates efficiently and lasts longer. Neglecting maintenance can lead to higher energy bills, poor air quality, and costly repairs.
5. They Offer Better Energy Efficiency
Modern air handlers are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Many models now feature variable-speed fans, which allow for precise control of air circulation. Unlike older single-speed fans that run at full power all the time, variable-speed fans adjust their speed based on your home’s needs. This not only provides more consistent and comfortable temperatures but also reduces energy usage, lowering your utility bills. Investing in an energy-efficient air handler can pay off in the long run with reduced operational costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
🛠️ Proper Maintenance for Air Handlers
Air handlers are durable, but they require regular upkeep to ensure peak performance. Here are some maintenance tips:
Change Air Filters
Regularly replacing your air filters is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to keep your air handler running smoothly. Clean filters ensure proper airflow, improve energy efficiency, and prevent dust buildup inside the system. Neglecting this simple task can lead to clogged filters, reduced performance, and even damage to your HVAC system. Aim to check and change filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and air quality.
Clean the Evaporator Coil
Over time, the evaporator coil collects dust and grime, which can disrupt the cooling process and reduce the efficiency of your air handler. A dirty coil forces your system to work harder, increasing energy costs and wear on components. It’s best to leave coil cleaning to professional HVAC technicians during routine servicing, as they have the tools and expertise to do it safely and effectively.
Check for Loose Wiring or Parts
Regular inspections of your air handler can help you catch small issues, such as loose wiring or components, before they become major problems. Loose connections can result in electrical malfunctions, reduced efficiency, or even system failure. Conduct a visual inspection yourself or have an HVAC technician do it during a maintenance visit to ensure everything is secure and functioning as it should.
Schedule Routine Service
Annual professional maintenance is crucial for keeping your air handler in top condition. HVAC technicians can perform a thorough inspection, clean critical components, and address any issues before they escalate. Routine service not only prevents costly repairs but also extends the lifespan of your air handler, ensuring it operates efficiently for years to come. Scheduling regular service is an investment in the long-term performance of your system.
👉 Air Handler Things To Know
An air handler is an essential component of your HVAC system, ensuring your home stays comfortable year-round by properly circulating and conditioning air. When it comes to keeping your air handler—and your entire HVAC system—running smoothly, Thelen Plumbing, Heating, and Air is the team you can trust. With over a decade of experience serving homeowners in the Minneapolis and Twin Cities Metro Area, we combine expertise, affordability, and 24/7 availability to deliver unmatched service.
Whether you need a repair, maintenance, or a new installation, we’re here to ensure your home’s comfort is never compromised. Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule your service and experience the Thelen difference!
