Air Conditioner vs. Air Handler

If you’re hunting for heating and cooling services, you may find confusing, sometimes contradictory information about different HVAC systems. One element that creates plenty of confusion is the air handler. Is this the same as an air conditioner? We’re here to help sort this out. 

What Is an Air Handler? 

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

Some people use the words “air handler” and “blower” interchangeably, but this is not right. An air handler is an entire unit containing a blower and numerous other parts, all of which operate together to condition and circulate the air. 

Does an Air Conditioner Use an Air Handler? 

Typically, an air conditioner uses the furnace’s blower motor, so no air handler is needed. However, in climates where home heating is not something that is necessary, an air conditioner may be the only HVAC equipment present. In this instance, the indoor air handler operates in conjunction with the outdoors unit, referred to as the condenser.  

In this setup, the AC unit’s air handler forces indoor air over the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat and collects moisture, leaving the air handler to distribute cooled, dehumidified air back inside the building via ductwork. Refrigerant lines link the air handler to the outdoor condenser, facilitating the heat transfer to the outside. This makes it possible for the air conditioning to maintain a constant, comfy indoor temperature and humidity level. 

Does a Heat Pump Use an Air Handler? 

This is where air handlers are most commonly found. In cold climates where heat pumps are less reliable, they are sometimes installed alongside furnaces, creating what’s called a dual-fuel system. However, advancements in cold-climate heat pumps make dual-fuel systems less prevalent as of late. With no furnace to lend its blower motor, heat pumps need a dedicated air handler to disperse conditioned air. 

Heat pumps work by pulling heat from the outside air and shifting it inside through the indoor coil. The air handler blows air across the coil to collect heat before circulating it through the building. A heat pump can additionally be used for cooling, where it retrieves heat from the indoor air and moves it outside, just like an air conditioner. 

Does a Furnace Use an Air Handler? 

No. Furnaces are made with a blower motor to move conditioned air. The blower is typically found in the interior of the furnace. It blows air across the heat exchanger, a metal component that exchanges heat from a fuel source to the air blowing across it. The fuel source can be natural gas, propane or oil, which is ignited to generate heat. Once warmed, the air spreads back through the ductwork system and into the building. 

What Are the Parts of an Air Handler? 

The basic components of an air handler include: 

• Blower: The blower is a motor-driven fan that disperses air throughout the ductwork. It drives air across the heating or cooling elements to control the indoor temperature. 
• Heating or cooling elements: Depending on the type of HVAC system you have installed in your home, the air handler may include heating or cooling elements, including an evaporator coil or backup electric heat strip. 

• Air filter: An HVAC air filter eliminates dust, dirt and other airborne debris from the air as it goes into the air handler to be heated or cooled. Air filter types and efficiency ratings vary according to the system requirements. Remember to replace your air filter routinely 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 certain rooms as desired to maintain a comfortable temperature. 
• Humidifier or dehumidifier: Some air handlers include a humidifier or dehumidifier, which manages the indoor relative humidity level. A humidifier puts moisture into the air in the winter, while a dehumidifier removes moisture in the summer. 
• Control system: The control system is tasked with regulating the air handler. It may include a thermostat, humidistat or other sensors to monitor the temperature and humidity in 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 & Plumbing is here to assist you. Our squad of experienced specialists can diagnose and repair any problems with your climate control system, so that it runs safely and efficiently. We believe in our excellent work so much that we stand behind every repair with a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! For more information or to set your home up air conditioning repair in the U.S., please contact a Service Experts office in your area today.