Do I Need an Air Handler in My Texas Home?

Meet the air handler. It has a starring role in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry.

If you have a ductless mini split system, you need an air handler to do the heavy lifting. It circulates conditioned air throughout your Texas home. Doing so lets you keep your living space at the desired temperature.

Are you in the market for a new heating or cooling system? Air-Ton Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. Is your air conditioner or heater more than 10 years old? You’ll be pleased to know that comfort technology is much more efficient now. The US Department of Energy (DOE) estimates you could save up to 50 percent on your energy bill just by upgrading your current AC system.

From our desk, here’s what you should know about air handlers:

What Does an Air Handler Do and How Does it Work?

They work in conjunction with your heating and cooling equipment to produce the perfect indoor temperature. They have four main components with important duties:

1. The blower is a motor-controlled fan. It aids with circulation.
2. The evaporator coil removes heat and humidity from the air.
3. Sound attenuators keep your air ducts whisper-silent.
4. Air filters ensure high indoor air quality (IAQ) and protect your equipment from dust build-up.

Different Sizes for Different Needs

Depending on square footage, there is an air handler for just about every space. If ideally-sized, it can circulate air evenly without using more energy than necessary.

A smaller wall mounted air handler is typically reserved for residential settings. These air handlers may be called terminal units, blower coils, or fan coil units. Their setup is simple: consisting of an air filter, a blower, and a coil. They pull air from inside your Houston home, treating and recirculating it.

Large air handlers are called makeup air units (MAUs). These mega-machines are usually found in commercial or industrial settings. Unlike their smaller cousins, MAUs pull air from the outdoors. If you’re a business owner, you should consider a rooftop unit (RTU).

When you’re shopping for an hvac air handler, one of our HVAC specialists can audit your home. They will take notes, conduct measurements, and perform calculations to find a model tailored to your needs. That way, you’ll have the perfect balance of comfort and efficiency.

Do I Need an Air Handler?

If your home has an AC and heat pump combination, you’ll need a residential air handler. If you have a furnace or radiant heat, you don’t need an air handler.

If you live in a mild temperature region, a ductless system coupled with an air handler is the way to go. However, if you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s wise to have a furnace.

Or, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with a dual-fuel system. These systems provide you with a fuel-burning furnace on those super cold days and an electric heat pump on milder days. Ask out team how this system can save you significant money over time.

Need help with heating and cooling?

Air-Ton Heating & Air Conditioning has a team of curious and reliable HVAC specialists on call for you here in Houston, TX. Whether you need a repair, replacement or maintenance, you can always reach us at 713-661-2760 or conveniently request service online today.