Air Conditioner vs. Air Handler

If you’re looking for heating and cooling services, you may come across confusing, sometimes contradictory information about different HVAC systems. One component that causes plenty of confusion is the air handler. Is this the same as an air conditioner? We’re here to set the record straight. 

What Is an Air Handler? 

An air handler is the indoor part of some types of HVAC systems. It connects to a network of air ducts that distribute conditioned air throughout the building. Air handlers vary in size, type and capacity, based on the application. 

Some people use the terms “air handler” and “blower” interchangeably, but this is not accurate. An air handler is an entire unit containing a blower and a number of other components, all of which work together to condition and circulate the air. 

Does an Air Conditioner Use an Air Handler? 

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

In this setup, the AC unit’s air handler pushes indoor air across the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat and collects moisture, leaving the air handler to distribute cooled, dehumidified air back to the building via ductwork. Refrigerant lines connect the air handler to the outdoor condenser, facilitating the heat transfer to the outside. This allows air conditioning to uphold a constant, comfortable indoor temperature and humidity level. 

Does a Heat Pump Use an Air Handler? 

This is where air handlers are most typically found. In cold climates where heat pumps are less reliable, they are sometimes installed alongside furnaces, creating what’s referred to as a dual-fuel system. However, advancements in cold-climate heat pumps make dual-fuel systems less common these days. With no furnace to lend its blower motor, heat pumps will need a dedicated air handler to circulate conditioned air. 

Heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it inside using the indoor coil. The air handler blows air across the coil to collect heat before circulating it throughout the building. A heat pump can additionally be used for cooling, where it extracts heat from the indoor air and transfers it outside, just like an air conditioner. 

Does a Furnace Use an Air Handler? 

No. Furnaces come with a blower motor to move conditioned air. The blower is typically located inside the furnace. It pushes air across the heat exchanger, a metal component that transfers heat from a fuel source to the air blowing past it. The fuel source can be natural gas, propane or oil, which is ignited to generate heat. Once warmed, the air circulates back through the ductwork system and into the building. 

What Are the Parts of an Air Handler? 

The main parts of an air handler include: 

• Blower: The blower is a motor-driven fan that circulates air through the ductwork. It forces air across the heating or cooling elements to regulate the indoor temperature. 
• Heating or cooling elements: Depending on the type of HVAC system you have, the air handler may contain heating or cooling elements, including an evaporator coil or backup electric heat strip. 

• Air filter: An HVAC air filter removes dust, dirt and other contaminants from the air as it goes into the air handler to be heated or cooled. Air filter types and efficiency ratings vary based 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 structures with zoned heating and cooling. They can be manually or automatically powered to direct air to specific rooms as needed to maintain a comfortable temperature. 
• Humidifier or dehumidifier: Some air handlers contain a humidifier or dehumidifier, which regulates the indoor relative humidity level. A humidifier puts moisture into the air in the winter, while a dehumidifier takes out moisture in the summer. 
• Control system: The control system is a way to regulate the air handler. It may include a thermostat, humidistat or other sensors to monitor the temperature and humidity inside the building. 

Schedule Air Conditioner or Air Handler Repair 

If you’re having issues with your air conditioner, air handler or other HVAC components, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians can diagnose and repair any problems with your climate control system, ensuring it runs safely and efficiently. We believe in our excellent work so much that we back every repair with a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! For more information or to request air conditioning repair in San Antonio, please phone a Service Experts office in your area today.