While they might appear similar to furnaces on the surface, air handlers are very different. Whether you’re using a heat pump or air conditioning, the air handler plays an important role in delivering warm or cool air throughout your home. If you’re wondering what air handlers exactly are, let’s take a closer look at them and their components.
What Is an Air Handler?
An air handler is a component in an HVAC system that helps circulate conditioned air throughout a building. It works with heat pumps, air conditioners, and other systems to regulate indoor temperature by distributing this conditioned air to different spaces.
The air handler controls the flow of hot air or cold air, which ensures your home stays comfortable year-round. Larger air handlers are typically used for commercial spaces, while smaller ones are found in residential settings.
The Main Components of an Air Handler
The Blower Motor
The blower motor is responsible for moving air through the HVAC system. When the air handler activates, the blower motor spins the fan to push either warm air or cold air into the ducts and into your living spaces. A faulty blower motor can reduce air quality by failing to circulate air properly, making it harder for your air conditioning or heat pump to maintain the desired indoor temperature.
The Coil
The evaporator coil is where the magic of heating and cooling happens — as air passes over the coil, it either absorbs heat, producing cold air, or releases heat, resulting in warm air. Air handler coils work directly with the outdoor unit to transfer heat. In air conditioning mode, the coil cools indoor air, while in heating mode, it helps warm it.
The Air Filter
The filter in the air handler plays a crucial role in maintaining good indoor air quality. It traps dust, pollen, and other contaminants, and prevents them from entering the HVAC system and circulating throughout the building.
However, over time, a clogged air filter can hinder airflow and force the blower motor to work harder — reducing the overall efficiency of your air conditioning or heat pump. As such, regularly replacing the air filter helps your air handler work efficiently and ensures cleaner, healthier air for your home.
The Plenum Connectors for Air Handler
Plenum connectors link the air handler to the ductwork, allowing conditioned air to travel from the air handler into the rest of the building. These connectors create a smooth transition point between the blower motor and the ducts, which helps maintain proper airflow.
Whether you’re dealing with a larger air handler or a smaller unit, well-installed plenum connectors are essential for an efficient HVAC system. Without them, you could experience uneven distribution of warm air or cool air throughout your home.
For Professional HVAC Services, Call EMCO Tech Heating & Cooling Today
At EMCO Tech Heating & Cooling, Carrier HVAC dealers, we’re dedicated to providing homeowners throughout Bucks and Montgomery counties with the best HVAC assistance possible. From air duct design services and AC installation to heat pump services and air conditioning maintenance, we’ll make sure your home stays comfortable throughout the year. Give us a call today for further information and to schedule one of our services.