Air Conditioner vs. Air Handler

If you’re searching for heating and cooling services, you may find confusing, sometimes contradictory information about a variety of HVAC systems. One element that garners plenty of confusion is the air handler. Is this the same as an air conditioner? We’re here to clear things up. 

What Is an Air Handler? 

An air handler is the indoor portion 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 individuals 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 numerous other elements, all of which work together to condition and circulate the air. 

Does an Air Conditioner Use an Air Handler? 

Usually, an air conditioner shares the furnace’s blower motor, so no air handler is necessary. However, in environments where home heating is not something that is necessary, an air conditioner may be the sole HVAC equipment present. In this situation, the indoor air handler works in tandem with the outdoor unit, called the condenser.  

In this setup, the AC unit’s air handler blows indoor air over the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat and collects moisture, leaving the air handler to circulate cooled, dehumidified air back to the building using ductwork. Refrigerant lines connect the air handler to the outdoor condenser, assisting with the heat transfer to the outside. This allows air conditioning to maintain 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 occasionally installed alongside furnaces, creating what’s called a dual-fuel system. However, advancements in cold-climate heat pumps make dual-fuel systems less popular as of late. Without a furnace to lend its blower motor, heat pumps require a dedicated air handler to move conditioned air. 

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

Does a Furnace Use an Air Handler? 

No. Furnaces are made with a blower motor to move conditioned air. The blower is usually housed in the interior of the furnace. It forces air across the heat exchanger, a metal component that exchanges heat from a fuel source to the air blowing across it. The fuel source can be natural gas, propane or oil, which is ignited to produce heat. Once warmed, the air is dispersed back through the ductwork system and into the building. 

What Are the Parts of an Air Handler? 

The major components of an air handler include: 

• Blower: The blower is a motor-driven fan that disperses air by way of the ductwork. It forces air across the heating or cooling elements to regulate the indoor temperature. 
• Heating or cooling elements: Based on the type of HVAC system you own, 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 contamination from the air as it enters 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 regularly to prevent restricting airflow through the system. 
• Dampers: Dampers are used to control airflow in buildings with zoned heating and cooling. They can be manually or automatically operated to direct air to particular rooms as necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature. 
• Humidifier or dehumidifier: Some air handlers include a humidifier or dehumidifier, which regulates the indoor relative humidity level. A humidifier infuses moisture into the air in the winter, while a dehumidifier removes moisture in the summer. 
• Control system: The control system is tasked with regulating the air handler. It might include a thermostat, humidistat or other sensors to keep track of the temperature and humidity in 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. Our squad of Expert professionals can diagnose and repair any problems with your climate control system, making sure it runs safely and efficiently. We believe in our exceptional work so much that we back all repairs with a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! For more information or to schedule air conditioning repair in Fort Lauderdale, please reach out to a Service Experts office in your area today.