Air Conditioner vs. Air Handler

If you’re looking for heating and cooling services, you may come across confusing, sometimes contradictory information about different HVAC systems. One element that causes plenty of confusion is the air handler. Is this the equivalent of an air conditioner? We’re here to set the record straight. 

What Is an Air Handler? 

An air handler is the indoor component of some types of HVAC systems. It hooks up to a network of air ducts that deliver conditioned air all through the building. Air handlers range in size, type and capacity, depending on the application. 

Some people use the terms “air handler” and “blower” interchangeably, but this is not correct. An air handler is an entire unit containing a blower and numerous other components, all of which work together to condition and circulate the air. 

Does an Air Conditioner Use an Air Handler? 

Normally, an air conditioner utilizes the furnace’s blower motor, so no air handler is needed. However, in climates where home heating is not required, an air conditioner may be the sole HVAC equipment present. In this situation, the indoor air handler operates in tandem with the outdoor unit, referred to as the condenser.  

In this setup, the AC unit’s air handler pushes indoor air across the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat and collects moisture, leaving the air handler to circulate cooled, dehumidified air back inside the building via ductwork. Refrigerant lines connect the air handler to the outdoor condenser, assisting with the heat transfer to the outside. This makes it possible for the air conditioning to uphold a constant, comfy indoor temperature and humidity level. 

Does a Heat Pump Use an Air Handler? 

This is where air handlers are most frequently found. In cold climates where heat pumps are less dependable, they are sometimes installed alongside furnaces, creating what’s called a dual-fuel system. However, advancements in cold-climate heat pumps make dual-fuel systems less popular these days. With no furnace to lend its blower motor, heat pumps need a dedicated air handler to move conditioned air. 

Heat pumps work by removing heat from the outside air and moving it inside via the indoor coil. The air handler blows air across the coil to acquire heat before circulating it through the building. A heat pump can additionally be used for cooling, where it retrieves heat from the indoor air and transfers it outside, just like an air conditioner. 

Does a Furnace Use an Air Handler? 

No. Furnaces are equipped with a blower motor to move conditioned air. The blower is most likely found inside the furnace. It pushes air across the heat exchanger, a metal component that exchanges heat from a fuel source to the air blowing past it. The fuel source can be natural gas, propane or oil, which is ignited to create heat. Once warmed, the air is distributed back through the ductwork system and into the building. 

What Are the Parts of an Air Handler? 

The main components of an air handler include: 

• Blower: The blower is a motor-driven fan that disperses air throughout the ductwork. It drives air across the heating or cooling elements to control the indoor temperature. 
• Heating or cooling elements: Depending on the type of HVAC system you have, the air handler may include heating or cooling elements, including an evaporator coil or backup electric heat strip. 

• Air filter: An HVAC air filter removes dust, dirt and other contaminants from the air as it goes into the air handler to be heated or cooled. Air filter types and efficiency ratings vary depending on system requirements. Remember to switch out your air filter regularly to prevent restricting airflow through the system. 
• Dampers: Dampers are used to control airflow in structures with zoned heating and cooling. They can be manually or automatically operated to direct air to certain rooms as desired to keep a comfortable temperature. 
• Humidifier or dehumidifier: Some air handlers have a humidifier or dehumidifier, which controls the indoor relative humidity level. A humidifier adds moisture into the air in the winter, while a dehumidifier gets rid of moisture in the summer. 
• Control system: The control system is a way to regulate the air handler. It might include a thermostat, humidistat or other sensors to keep track of the temperature and humidity throughout the building. 

Schedule Air Conditioner or Air Handler Repair 

If you’re suffering from issues with your air conditioner, air handler or other HVAC components, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help out. Our squad of knowledgeable specialists can diagnose and repair any problems with your climate control system, so that it runs safely and efficiently. We believe in our exceptional work so much that we stand behind all repairs with a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! For more information or to set your home up air conditioning repair in Fort Lauderdale, please contact a Service Experts office in your area today.