When researching your cooling system, it can be very confusing. There are many different components and parts that make up your HVAC system. For example, you may have heard of an air handler, and if you haven’t, you’re not alone!
An air handler is the piece of equipment in your AC that moves air through your home. Inside the handler is a blower, and coils. It is located within your home in the attic or a closet. The air handler works alongside your air conditioner to move cool and hot air in the home.
The evaporator coil inside the air handler cycles refrigerant and keeps the coil cool. When the air handler brings in heated air from inside your home or workspace, it blows it across the cooled down coil and removes all heat. The cool air is then circulated back into your home/space, and the air that is hot is expelled outside.
As previously mentioned, the air handler is part of a team of equipment in your air conditioning system that works to cool and heat your home. For example, a heat pump in an HVAC system transfers heat in your home. The air handler is its partner in drawing in the cool air to heat it up, then moving the hot air around.
Common Air Handler Problems
Your AC and all the parts that make it up work hard to keep your home both cool and warm. If something is wrong with one part, that could affect the performance of your overall air conditioning system. Below you can find the most common problems that occur with air handlers.
Dirty Air Filters
All AC systems have filters that keep the air in your home or work environment clean. However, these filters need to be changed periodically on a monthly basis. If not, a dirty air filter can affect air quality and cause debris to float either into your home or into other parts of the system. Replace filters regularly to prevent this!
Evaporator Coils Clogging Up
If your filters are getting dirty, it could also mean your evaporator coils are clogged up. For them to work properly, they must be cleaned. These can be found by opening up your air handler. However, it is recommended that you get your evaporator coils professionally cleaned.
Motor Failure
If the blower motor within your air handler gives out, then air cannot move properly through your system. When this happens, the motor either needs a repair or replacement. If you continue to use your AC even though the motor is failing, it could lead to further damage to your system and even be dangerous.
