Air Handlers

What Is An Air Handler?

Most people have never heard of an air handler, and even fewer probably know what exactly it does. An air handler is an essential part of your air conditioning and heating system and works alongside other HVAC components. It holds the fan and is responsible for distributing the heated and cooled air throughout your home eventually releasing this air through vents or registers.

Why Type Of Handler Is Right For My Home?

Generally, there are three main types of heating and cooling systems located on the Virginia Peninsula. This is important because the type of system in your home will determine where your air handler is located. Additional things to consider when choosing an air handler include the size of your home, your budget, and your heating and cooling needs. Remember, working with qualified HVAC professionals such as A/C Masters can help to determine appropriate size and specifications to make sure your system is operating as it should.

  • Split air conditioner and furnace – In this setup, you have an outside air conditioning unit (likely on the ground outside your home) and a furnace inside your garage, attic, or a closet. The air handler is part of the furnace.
  • Split heat pump – This setup is similar to the first except there is no furnace, meaning your outside unit is responsible for both heating and cooling your home. However, there is still an air handler in your attic or closet that distributes the heated and cooled air throughout your ducts.
  • Packaged System – In this situation, the air handler is packaged with the outdoor unit into one piece.

Is One Type of Air Handler Better Than Another?

You probably know that stop and start traffic makes your vehicle less efficient and uses more gas, but did you know that the same is true of your air conditioner and heater? Standard air handlers can cause your heating and air conditioning system to cycle on and off frequently, ruining your system’s efficiency and costing you money.

However, there is an alternative. Variable speed air handlers adjust the speed of your air handler to the needs of your system so it runs longer and more efficiently.

How Do Air Handler Repairs Come About?

Just like any HVAC equipment, air handlers can experience issues over time. Some of the common issues we’ve been out to repair include:

  1. The heating or cooling coils in the air handler can accumulate dirt and debris, reducing their efficiency and effectiveness. Regular maintenance and cleaning is necessary to maintain optimal performance.
  2. Your air conditioning and heating system is running but no air is coming out of your vents. It may be that your air handler is the problem. We can help!
  3. Air filters in the air handler need regular replacement. If this task is being neglected, it may impact proper airflow and ultimately lead to poor indoor air quality.

A/C Masters Qualifications

Rely on the team at A/C Masters to efficiently complete your HVAC project. Wee offer comprehensive services for a wide range of HVAC equipment in the areas of Yorktown, Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, Gloucester, and neighboring areas. Need a free estimate for a new variable speed air handler? Contact us to speak with one of our comfort specialists.

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A/C Masters Service Areas

With our exceptional expertise and dedication, we are committed to ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of our valued customers across these regions. Trust A/C Masters for all your heating, cooling, and ventilation needs in the Virginia Peninsula!
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