Furnaces and air handlers are both important pieces of equipment that help people keep their homes at a comfortable temperature. Most people who are not HVAC professionals have heard of furnaces but have not heard of air handlers. It is important to understand the differences between these two types of machines. Continue reading to learn more about your furnace and air handler.
What Is An Air Handler?
It’s probably safe to say that most people know what a furnace is. However, as previously mentioned, air handlers are a little less well-known, which is why it is important to understand what an air handler is. An air handler is a device that helps your furnace or air conditioner maintain and regulate the temperature inside your home. Typically the air handler is connected to your thermostat. Air handlers are sometimes referred to as “fan coil units.” Air conditioners can kind of look like a furnace or other heating and cooling system because it is also box-shaped and has a blower in them.
The Difference Between Furnaces & Air Handlers
Air handlers are typically used in cases when the primary heating or cooling system needs to be supplemented. Typically air handlers are prepared to do air conditioning work, due to having an air conditioning coil in it. However, you can get an electric strip in the air handler that can allow the air handler to assist your furnace.
If you use an air handler with an electric strip to be your primary heater, you will likely run into some problems because the air handler cannot produce enough heat. Air handlers are also very expensive to run on their own. The difference between a furnace and an air handler is that the furnace is your primary source of heat in your home, while an air handler simply assists with air flow and heating your home.
Our Recommendations
We at Genuine Comfort use air handlers specifically for air conditioning here in Utah. We don’t recommend using an air handler as your primary furnace, because it will simply not be able to keep up with the amount of heat and circulation that your home needs. Air handlers are best used as additions in Utah.
Do You Need An Air Handler Or Furnace Installed?
If you are looking to get a new furnace or would like to install an air handler to help your furnace with air conditioning or heating, we at Genuine Comfort would be more than happy to help you out. We offer comprehensive heating and cooling installation and repair services that aim to help homeowners and businesses stay comfortable inside. We have several talented and experienced technicians on our team that will know how to properly install your machine or properly diagnose and troubleshoot any problems that your heating or cooling system may have. Reach out to us today for more information or to set up an appointment.
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