Split heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems contain more than just an outdoor condenser and compressor; they also feature an air handler.
Typically found indoors, it’s an essential HVAC component that’s used to distribute cooled or warmed air. Because they are installed in a discreet location, though, many homeowners rarely see their HVAC system’s air handler.
So, what is an air handler and how does it work?
What Is an Air Handler?
An air handler is a multipart component in split HVAC systems that’s used to circulate cooled or warmed air throughout your home, depending on whether you are using the heater or air conditioner.
While there are different types of air handlers, most contain an evaporator coil, a motorized blower, a mesh air filter and various electrical connectors.
How Air Handlers Work
Air handlers are able to circulate cooled or warmed air thanks to their respective components.
The most important component in an air handler is the evaporator coil. Not to be confused with the condenser coil – the coil located outside your home – the evaporator coil transfers thermal energy.
When using your HVAC system’s air conditioner, the evaporator coil will remove heat and humidity from your home’s air. When using your HVAC system’s heater, on the other hand, it will add heat to your home’s air.
The motorized blower is another critical component of an air handler.
Consisting of a large powered fan, it blows the cooled or warmed air through your home’s ductwork so that it can be evenly distributed to various rooms and indoor spaces.
There are different types of motorized blowers, including single speed, multi-speed, and even variable speed. Regardless, they all work by blowing cooled or warmed air through your home’s ductwork.
Common Problems With Air Handlers
Air handlers can suffer from problems that, when ignored, make them less effective.
If dirty, the evaporator coil, for instance, will reduce its ability to transfer thermal energy. With dust or debris covering the evaporator coil, it may fail to remove an adequate amount of heat from the air.
In turn, your air conditioner may blow room-temperature air that fails to keep you and your family comfortable during the summer.
The motorized blowers used in air handlers can also fail.
In some cases, fixing a nonfunctional blower may require nothing more than resetting a tripped circuit breaker. In other cases, the blower may require repairing or replacing.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
