If you’ve ever been interested in learning about the cooling elements of your air conditioner, you likely have come across the term “air handler.” So, what is an air handler?
An air handler is crucial to many heating and cooling setups, working behind the scenes to keep your home comfortable year-round. In this guide, Automated Comfort Systems will explain what an air handler is and how it functions within your HVAC system. Our AC maintenance experts in High Point, NC, are here to help you understand this vital equipment.
What’s an Air Handler?
An air handler is a large metal box that houses several components essential to your HVAC system’s operation. It works with your outdoor unit to circulate conditioned air throughout your home. The air handler is typically indoors, often in a basement, attic, or dedicated closet.
The main components of an air handler include:
- Blower motor and fan
- Evaporator coil
- Air filter
- Heating element (in some systems)
- Control board
These parts work together to move air through your ductwork, filter it, and adjust its temperature before distributing it to various rooms in your house.
How Does an Air Handler Work in Your HVAC System?
What is an air handler, and how does it work? Air handlers play a vital role in ventilation as well as heating and cooling your High Point home. Here’s how they function in different modes:
Cooling Mode
In cooling mode, the process begins with the outdoor unit (condenser) cooling the refrigerant and sending it to the air handler. Warm air from your home enters the air handler through return ducts and intake vents and passes over the evaporator coil containing the cold refrigerant.
This interaction allows the refrigerant to absorb heat from the air, effectively cooling it down. Finally, the blower fan pushes this cooled air through your home’s ductwork, distributing it to various rooms and maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Heating Mode
Heating mode: In systems with electric heat, this process starts when the heating element in the air handler warms up. Air from your home enters the air handler and passes over the heated element, raising its temperature.
The blower fan then distributes this warmed air through your ductwork, circulating it throughout your home. The air handler’s blower motor and fan move air through the system during heating and cooling.
Meanwhile, the control board acts as the brain of the operation, managing all functions based on signals received from your thermostat to maintain the desired temperature settings.
Types of Air Handlers: Choosing the Right One for Your High Point Home
Answering the question, “What is an air handler?” also requires considering the different types. Different types of air handlers cater to various home sizes, climates, and HVAC configurations.
Single-Speed Air Handlers
These are the most basic types of air handlers. They operate at full capacity when running, regardless of your home’s heating or cooling needs.
Multi-Speed Air Handlers
Multi-speed air handlers offer more flexibility than single-speed units. They typically have low, medium, and high settings, allowing for better energy efficiency and temperature control.
Variable-Speed Air Handlers
As the most advanced option, variable-speed air handlers can make minute adjustments to their speed. This allows for precise temperature control and maximum energy efficiency. They operate at lower speeds most of the time, ramping up only when necessary, which can lead to significant energy savings.
Modular Air Handlers
Modular air handlers are designed for flexibility in installation and come in separate pieces that can be assembled on-site. This makes them ideal for homes with limited access to attics or basements, as the components can be moved through tight spaces and assembled in place.
Horizontal Air Handlers
These units are designed to fit into tight spaces, such as attics or crawl spaces. They’re installed lying on their side, making them perfect for homes where vertical space is at a premium.
Reach Out to Automated Comfort Systems When You Need Air Handler Services in High Point, NC
What is an air handler? Now that you understand what it is and how it works, you can better appreciate its role in your home’s comfort.
Our team of experienced technicians can provide expert AC repair and maintenance services to keep your air handler running smoothly. If you’re experiencing issues with your HVAC system or have questions about air handlers, reach out. Call Automated Comfort Systems for all your air handler and HVAC needs in High Point, North Carolina.