What is an Air Handler?
An air handler (also known as an air handling unit or AHU) is a vital part of an HVAC system responsible for circulating and conditioning air throughout a building. It works in conjunction with a heat pump or air conditioner to distribute heated or cooled air via ductwork.
An air handler typically consists of a blower motor, evaporator coil, air filter, and housing unit. It ensures that conditioned air is efficiently delivered to different rooms, maintaining indoor comfort and air quality.
In residential settings, air handlers are usually paired with heat pumps, while in commercial applications, larger air handling units serve multi-zone HVAC systems. Proper maintenance, including filter replacements and coil cleaning, is essential to ensure energy efficiency and longevity.
Without an air handler, an HVAC system would struggle to distribute air effectively, leading to uneven temperatures and poor indoor air quality. Choosing the right air handler size and configuration is key to achieving optimal performance in any heating or cooling system.
