What is an Air Handler?

 

Air handlers are an essential part of any HVAC system. They regulate airflow and temperature throughout a home or building. 

In places like Chicagoland, the weather can vary from extremely cold in winter to ultra hot in summer.  Good temperature regulation is important for keeping your home or business comfortable all year.

How Does an Air Handler Work?

An air handler works with your HVAC system. It helps move air through the ducts and controls the temperature and humidity inside your home. It draws air from the living space, passes it over a coil, and then circulates the conditioned air through the building. The motor powers the blower or fan, pushing air through the ducts and into each room.

In homes, it keeps a comfortable temperature in every room. In businesses, it helps control airflow in large buildings. 

Components of an Air Handler

An air handler consists of several key components:

• Housing: This is the outer shell that houses all the internal components.
• Motor: The air handler motor powers the blower or fan, which circulates air throughout the system and into the ductwork.
• Evaporator Coil: The coil cools the air in AC air handlers by absorbing heat from the air.
• Heating Elements: These electric heating coils or gas burners heat the air during colder months.
• Filters: Air filters trap dust, dirt, and other contaminants to maintain clean air quality.
• Dampers: These control the airflow and temperature by adjusting the amount of air that flows through the ducts.

Air Handlers vs. Condensers

Air handlers and condensers are both essential in HVAC systems but serve different roles. 

The air handler moves cooled air through ducts. The condenser cools the refrigerant outside and releases heat from indoor air. Together, they ensure efficient cooling and temperature regulation. Understanding their functions is key to proper HVAC system maintenance.

The Importance of Maintenance and Efficiency

Here are a few air handler care tips to keep your system running efficiently:

• Replace air filters regularly to ensure optimal airflow and air quality.
• Schedule annual inspections to catch potential problems early and ensure everything runs smoothly.
• Clean the coils to prevent buildup that could hinder the system’s ability to heat or cool effectively.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Air handlers can encounter a variety of issues, some of which may require professional attention:

• Air handler not blowing air: This could be due to a malfunctioning fan or clogged filters.
• Inadequate cooling or heating: This might indicate issues with the evaporator coil, heating elements, or low refrigerant levels.
• Strange noises: These could be a sign of a loose part or malfunctioning air handler motor.

If you experience persistent issues with your air handler, it’s time to contact an HVAC professional for a thorough inspection and repairs.

Let Thornton Help With Any Air Handler Issues

Understanding how an air handler works gives you a better idea of how the climate control in your home or business operates. This essential part of your commercial or residential home comfort system controls airflow and temperature.

It is important to know the parts of your HVAC system and how they work together. This helps ensure everything runs well. It also helps you know when to contact a professional, like the team at Thornton, for repairs or maintenance.