The Important Role of the Air Handler
The air handler is the most important part of a home’s HVAC system. It’s what heats and cools the air, and distributes that air throughout the house. More than just an appliance, the air handler keeps a home comfortable.
Read on to learn about the parts of the air handler, how it works, and what problems may potentially come up.
What Is an Air Handler, and How Does it Work?
An air handler is similar in appearance to a furnace, but unlike a furnace, it both heats and cools the air, and it runs only on electricity, not gas. It is a great choice for homeowners who want to update their HVAC system, save on fuel costs, and consolidate their heating and air conditioning into one appliance.
The air handler works by drawing air through an intake. This air is then heated or cooled by passing over either a heating element or an evaporator coil. The treated air is then forced by a blower fan through a system of ductwork into the home via vents.
A heat pump installed outside the house is also necessary; it uses refrigerant to draw heat from the outdoor air or disperse heat, depending on whether the system is heating or cooling.
The Parts of an Air Handler
The air handler is composed of three main parts, each with a specific function:
- Evaporator coil - This consists of a coil of tubing filled with refrigerant, which draws the heat out of the air, cooling it
- Electric heat strip - This is an element that uses electricity to get hot, heating the air when needed
- Blower motor - The motorized blower fan creates intake and blows air through the handler and into the ducts
Other auxiliary parts include filters, optional humidifiers or dehumidifiers and the electrical components that make the unit run, like the control board and capacitor.
When To Get Air Handler Services
Like any home appliance, the air handler may suddenly stop working. Several things can go wrong with the unit, causing it to malfunction.
Here are some of the most common problems.
- Dirty air filters - The filters in the air handler should be replaced frequently, but if ignored, dust and debris will accumulate. This will result in poor air quality, reduced airflow and even fan blockages or clogged condensate drains.
- Dirty evaporator coil - When the evaporator coil becomes dirty, it will be less effective at pulling heat from the air. The air inside the home will not be as cool as it should, and the unit will have to work harder to reach the desired temperature.
- Blower motor failure - When the blower motor fails, air will move through the system sluggishly or not at all. The cause could be electrical, or it could be caused by the accumulation of dirt and grime.
- Low refrigerant - If the air blowing through the vents is warm when it’s supposed to be cold, it could be due to a lack of refrigerant. Low refrigerant levels may be due to the age of the unit or a leak.
- Broken fan belt - The fan belt keeps the fan blades spinning, but the exposed belt is vulnerable to damage. A clacking sound within the air handler could signal a damaged fan belt.
It’s essential to call a professional HVAC company for the repair and maintenance of an air handler. A certified technician will be able to diagnose problems, repair them and provide annual maintenance to keep the system running efficiently.
About Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning
Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning has been Boston’s go-to HVAC company since 1962. They specialize in detailed inspections, personalized service, and top-quality customer care. Their experts will work hard to find the perfect heating and cooling solutions for every home.
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