At Summers Comfort Heating & Air here in Denham Springs, we often get questions from customers asking, “What exactly is an air handler?” It’s a common term in the HVAC world, but not everyone knows what it does—or why it matters. That’s why we’re breaking it down in this post. If you’re trying to understand how your heating and cooling system works, this is a great place to start.
Understanding What an Air Handler Does
An air handler is the indoor part of your HVAC system that moves conditioned air throughout your home. It works closely with your air conditioner or heat pump. While the outdoor unit does the cooling or heating, the handler takes that treated air and circulates it through your ducts.
How Does an Air Handler Work?
Inside the air handler, you’ll find components like a blower motor, evaporator coil, and air filters. The blower pushes air through the system. Meanwhile, the evaporator coil cools or heats the air depending on the season. After that, the air travels through your ducts and into the rooms of your home.
Why Air Handlers Matter in Louisiana Homes
Here in Denham Springs and across southern Louisiana, humidity and heat can put your HVAC system to the test. The air handler plays a big role in keeping your home comfortable. A properly functioning handler helps maintain even temperatures. It also improves indoor air quality, and supports energy efficiency.
Signs You Might Have an Air Handler Issue
Like any mechanical system, air handlers can develop problems over time. Here are a few red flags to watch for:
- Weak airflow from vents
- Strange noises when the system kicks on
- Sudden spikes in energy bills
- Uneven temperatures throughout the house
If you notice any of these signs, give Summers Comfort Heating & Air a call. We can inspect your handler and fix any issues before they become costly repairs.
Regular Maintenance Makes a Difference
It’s easy to forget about your HVAC system until something goes wrong. However, keeping your air handler in good shape with regular maintenance can help prevent breakdowns. Changing filters, cleaning coils, and checking motor components are all part of the process. We offer seasonal tune-ups throughout Denham Springs and the surrounding areas.
Air Handler vs. Furnace: What’s the Difference?
Many homeowners think the air handler and furnace are the same thing. They’re actually different components. A furnace generates heat and usually includes a blower, while air handlers work with heat pumps or AC to move air. Some systems do combine the two in one cabinet, but they still function in separate ways.
Choosing the Right Air Handler for Your Home
Not all air handlers are built the same. The size of your home, ductwork layout, and whether you use a heat pump or central AC all factor into the right choice. At Summers Comfort Heating & Air, we help Denham Springs homeowners pick the system that fits their needs—and their budget.
Efficiency Ratings to Look For
If you’re replacing your system, look for air handlers with high SEER ratings and variable-speed motors. These features can help reduce energy use and improve comfort. Plus, many qualify for energy rebates.
Check out our SEER calculator here!
Trust Summers Comfort Heating & Air With Your HVAC Needs
We’ve worked on just about every type of air handler out there. Whether you’re building a new home in Livingston Parish or upgrading your current system in Walker, we’re here to help. Our team takes pride in offering honest recommendations and quality service.
If you’re still wondering what a handler is or whether yours needs attention, don’t hesitate to contact us. At Summers Comfort Heating & Air in Denham Springs, we’re always ready to explain things clearly and get your system working the way it should.
