Air Handlers

At first glance, an air handler resembles a large metal box, punched with holes and equipped with a fan.  But inside this deceptively simple air conditioning part lies the motor responsible for circulating air throughout your home or business.  Air handlers provide the energy to move air throughout your ductwork; without these devices, your air conditioning system's cold air would be stagnant, cooling only the pipes that contain it. 

Heating and air conditioning systems are comprised of both an outdoor and indoor unit, which work together to cool and distribute air; air handlers are the indoor unit, powering the cooled air once it enters your environment from outdoors.  Often, air handlers contain a filtration system composed of air conditioning filters, which protect your air conditioning and refrigeration system and your home from harmful dirt and debris.  In home air conditioning systems, air handlers are usually controlled by a thermostat, which can be manual, digital, or even programmable.  In order to guarantee optimum performance from your air conditioning system, air handlers must be well-maintained. Air handler units that are located in areas that are difficult to access will be more likely to suffer from poor air filter maintenance, and overall decreased performance. Therefore, quick releasing, hinged access doors for maintenance are more desirable than bolted access panels in situations when the security of your air conditioning unit is not an issue.

Several companies who manufacture HVAC systems offer energy-saving air handlers.  These products, such as Trane air handlers, use the latest in technology to run fans and motors at variable speeds, instead of the single speed that most standard central air conditioning systems use.  In standard systems, the air handler is either on or off; in systems that utilize energy efficient technology, a variable speed motor (VSM) automatically adjusts power according to your home air conditioning’s cooling needs.  VSM air handlers slowly increase up to maximum speed instead of turning on all at once, thus avoiding the blast of air that accompanies most standard air conditioning systems. .  Because VSM air conditioning parts are able to modulate themselves, they substantially reduce the amount of energy used and therefore substantially reduce your energy bill.  Some local energy providers offer incentives for installing energy efficient air handlers in your air conditioning unit; ask your energy company for more details.

Like all other air conditioning parts, air handlers perform best when routinely serviced.  In order to keep your air handler in top shape, pay particular attention to your system’s air conditioner filters and ductwork.  Changing your air conditioning system’s filters every one to two months and inspecting your ducts annually will prevent dust and debris from accumulating in your air handler.  If you suspect a problem with your air handler, such as a broken fan, your should first check the circuit breaker responsible for your equipment.  After resetting the breaker, your air handler should restart.  If not, then contact your local air conditioning repair technician.  In general, air handlers are complicated pieces of machinery that should be diagnosed by a professional air conditioning contractor.