Air Conditioner vs. Air Handler

If you’re hunting for heating and cooling services, you may find confusing, sometimes contradictory information about a variety of HVAC systems. One thing that creates quite a bit of confusion is the air handler. Is this the same as 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 models of HVAC systems. It links to a network of air ducts that deliver conditioned air throughout the building. Air handlers vary in size, type and capacity, dependent on the application. 

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

Does an Air Conditioner Use an Air Handler? 

Typically, an air conditioner utilizes the furnace’s blower motor, so no air handler is needed. However, in weather where home heating is not needed in a home or commercial property, an air conditioner may be the lone HVAC equipment present. In this situation, the indoor air handler runs in tandem with the outdoor unit, referred to as the condenser.  

In this setup, the AC unit’s air handler forces indoor air along the outside of the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat and collects moisture, leaving the air handler to circulate cooled, dehumidified air back into the building using ductwork. Refrigerant lines connect the air handler to the outdoor condenser, enabling the heat transfer to the outside. This will permit 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 commonly found. In cold climates where heat pumps are less effective, they are at times installed alongside furnaces, creating what’s known as a dual-fuel system. However, advancements in cold-climate heat pumps make dual-fuel systems less popular as of late. Because there is no furnace to lend its blower motor, heat pumps need a dedicated air handler to move conditioned air. 

Heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outside air and shifting it inside through the indoor coil. The air handler blows air across the coil to acquire heat before circulating it all over the building. A heat pump can also be used for cooling, where it pulls heat from the indoor air and transmits it outside, just like an air conditioner. 

Does a Furnace Use an Air Handler? 

No. Furnaces are made with a blower motor to distribute conditioned air. The blower is commonly housed within the furnace. It blows air across the heat exchanger, a metal component that transfers 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 heated, the air circulates back through the ductwork system and into the building. 

What Are the Parts of an Air Handler? 

The major parts of an air handler include: 

• Blower: The blower is a motor-driven fan that circulates air within the ductwork. It moves air across the heating or cooling elements to manage the indoor temperature. 
• Heating or cooling elements: According to the type of HVAC system you have, the air handler may have heating or cooling elements, including an evaporator coil or backup electric heat strip. 

• Air filter: An HVAC air filter takes 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 replace your air filter on a regular basis 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 particular rooms as necessary to uphold a comfortable temperature. 
• Humidifier or dehumidifier: Some air handlers contain a humidifier or dehumidifier, which controls the indoor relative humidity level. A humidifier adds moisture into the air in the winter, while a dehumidifier removes moisture in the summer. 
• Control system: The control system is responsible for regulating the air handler. It might include a thermostat, humidistat or other sensors to track the temperature and humidity in the building. 

Schedule Air Conditioner or Air Handler Repair 

If you’re having issues with your air conditioner, air handler or other HVAC components, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Our team of knowledgeable technicians 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.