At Comfort Caddies, we provide a wide range of HVAC services, including air handler installation. If you don’t pay much attention to the different components of your HVAC system until something goes wrong, you aren’t alone. However, it can be beneficial to understand the basics of how your home is heated and cooled. This will help you be better in-tune with any signs of potential problems, and allow you to invest in a maintenance schedule that will prolong the life of your system and help it operate more efficiently. Keep reading to learn more about air handlers and how Comfort Caddies can help with all your air handler needs.
What is an Air Handler Unit?
Essentially, as the name might imply, the air handler portion of your HVAC system is responsible for moving the air throughout your home. At first glance, the air handler may appear a lot like a furnace. It is basically a metal box that contains all the various components that work together to blow both hot and cool air through the ducts so that you can regulate your indoor air temperatures.
When it comes to HVAC systems, there are a lot of different terms that can make things confusing. It doesn’t help that they are sometimes used interchangeably when they shouldn’t be. Here is a quick breakdown of how the different components relate to one another and work together.
When we use the term HVAC, we are referring to the full heating and cooling system that works to regulate your home. This includes every component from the heat pump and ductwork to refrigerant and blowers. You can think of HVAC as an umbrella term.
The air handler and the heat pump and subcategories that work together to power the HVAC system. An air pump heats works to remove heat from the air. Meanwhile, the air handler aids with the refrigeration process while also distributing the air throughout the home. While these two main components rely on each other, they have very different roles.
Housed inside the air handler, which is usually located indoors are other important components, including:
- Evaporator coil. When the HVAC system is working to cool the home, air will be sent over the evaporator coil, which removes humidity and makes the entire home feel more comfortable. When you want to heat the home, heat will be transferred to the air as it passes over the evaporator coil.
- Blower motor. The blower moves the air throughout the ductwork and helps it to properly circulate throughout the home.
- Air supply and return connections. A plenum connects the ductwork to your air handler so that the right air is supplied into the home and the return air can enter to be either heated or cooled as necessary.
- Filter. HVAC filters are an underestimated component of these complex systems. Filters help you enjoy clean hair by removing particles and allergens and prevent various components of the system from becoming clogged. These filters should be changed at least once a month. A dirty filter can cause all sorts of problems from an inefficient system that costs more in monthly utility bills to a complete shutdown.
Heat Pump Handler Systems
If you live in a colder climate, you probably have a traditional furnace and air conditioning system that runs on gas. However, heat pumps are more commonly used in warmer climates, which makes air handlers another necessary component. For Florida residents, a heat pump is the most efficient option so that you can save money on monthly utility bills and provide a comfortable home throughout the year.
Trane Air Handlers
Trane is one of the most recognizable and trusted names in HVAC products. If you are looking for a reliable air handler that will provide an excellent return on your investment, a Trane product is a good way to go. They provide a wide range of air handlers that all come with great performance, but also offer specific advantages to meet your needs and priorities.
Trane Hyperion Communicating Air Handler
For those who are looking for the most efficient and environmentally-friendly model, they recommend the Hyperion Communicating Air Handler. Typically, more efficient models will come with a higher upfront investment, but you are able to recoup the cost over time through lower utility bills.
Trane M Series Air Handler
If you want to reduce your upfront investment and still enjoy a high level of efficiency, the M Series Air Handler is a budget-friendly option that provides whole-house comfort and a great value. The Hyperion Series Air Handler features an insulated cabinet, which is the main difference between the two options.
What Size Air Handler Do I Need?
At the same time, you can shop according to size and capacity. You will want to work closely with a professional to make sure that you have an HVAC system that is appropriately sized for your home. A system that is too big or too small can reduce efficiency and cause unnecessary wear and tear that will result in a shorter lifespan for your HVAC. Fortunately, the experienced team and Comfort Caddies can provide a free inspection of your home so that we can provide informed recommendations for the best solutions for heating and cooling your specific home.
Professional Residential Air Handler Installation
Hopefully, you have learned a little more about the role the air handler plays in the overall operations of your HVAC system and how it pairs with the heat pump to provide warm and cool air as needed. When it comes to getting the most out of your air handler, it all starts with proper installation. Whether purchasing a Trane or an air handler from a different manufacturer, our experienced technicians can expertly execute the installation process. They are well-versed in all makes and models, so that you can rely on Comfort Caddies for all your needs.
It is also important to keep in mind that the single most important thing you can do to help maintain your air handler is to regularly change the air filter. As mentioned, this should be done at least once a month and perhaps even more often if you have pets. From there, be sure to schedule a regular maintenance visit with Comfort Caddies to inspect, clean, and repair all the components of your system.
Schedule A Free Quote For Air Handler Installation Today
Whether you need help with air handler installation, maintenance or repair, the team at Comfort Caddies is ready to help. We have an extensive and highly mobile team, so you don’t have to wait for service. Call us today to get started on your project and learn for yourself why Comfort Caddies is the most trusted source for HVAC services in and around Naples, Florida.
