Whether you have an air handler and need it replaced or want a whole new HVAC system, contact Metro Services HVAC. Learn more about how they work and their benefits today!

Your air handler is the equipment that moves the air throughout the home. It operates with your home’s heating and cooling components, using a blower to transport the air to different locations. The equipment might resemble a furnace and is also where the indoor coil is located.

The air handler contains many components besides the blower, including filters, evaporator coils, dampers and mixing chambers. Air handlers are most common if you have an electric heat pump. If you have an air handler, it will probably be in your basement, attic or a designated closet space.

An air handler works in coordination with the HVAC unit ductwork. It uses supply vents to send hot or cold air to the desired areas, then draws air in from the return vents. While HVAC systems help control the temperature of the air, the air handler plays a pivotal role in its distribution.

There are three types of heat and AC air handlers:

• Single-speed: Single-speed options are the most affordable, but they only have two modes — completely on or off.
• Two-speed: These air handlers have a secondary setting that allows the equipment to run at less than 100%, letting it circulate air more evenly.
• Variable-speed: For many blower settings, you’ll need a variable-speed air handler. These can operate in different capacities to ensure maximum comfort in your home.

No matter which type you choose, the end goal of each is the same — to provide better air circulation of hot or cold air.

This equipment offers many benefits for homeowners in our Washington, D.C., and Maryland service areas:

• Supports the HVAC system: Air handlers prevent stagnancy, moving the hot or cold air appropriately throughout your home. They work in conjunction with your heating and cooling units, which can reduce wear on them and prolong their life span.
• Improves home comfort: You can help keep your home at your preferred temperature with an air handler. The whole house should be approximately the same temperature, increasing comfort.
• Reduces energy bills: The air handler unit works with your HVAC system by circulating treated air, easing the load on your heating and cooling systems.

Remember that your air handler requires regular maintenance and inspections like the rest of your HVAC system. Our team can perform many associated tasks, such as lubrication, cleaning the coils and drains and ensuring the wiring is adequate.

Signs your air handler might need to be repaired or replaced include:

• Higher energy bills: Although your energy costs will fluctuate throughout the year, an unreasonably high statement often indicates something is awry within your HVAC system.
• Weak or varying airflow: Whether you constantly have low airflow or it often changes throughout the day, performance issues in this arena can represent a problem with the blower. You’ll want to have the unit repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent these issues from worsening.
• Frozen particles on your AC: If you see ice forming on your air conditioning unit during the summer, it could be caused by a problem with your air handler. Refrigerant leaks, clogged air filters and dirty evaporator coils can all contribute to ice formation.

When you want an air handler installed, repaired or replaced, our technicians are ready to help. We serve the Washington, D.C. area and Frederick, Montgomery and Howard counties in Maryland. Get in touch with us online to learn more or request a quote!