An air handler is a great investment for commercial facilities to keep the indoor environment comfortable and ensure uniform temperature throughout. Normally, two types of Air Handlers are used; Wall-Mounted and Ceiling-Mounted. In this article, we will talk about what an Air Handler is, its components, and which one you should pick between Wall and Ceiling Mounted Air Handler units.

What Is An Air Handler?

An air handler unit, often abbreviated to AHU, is one of the main components of your HVAC system. To put it simply, it is more like the "lungs" of any HVAC system, used to regulate and circulate air, usually through the ductwork ventilation system. It ensures that your system is energy efficient and creates higher-quality air. The air handler itself is an indoor component that works as a partner with the outdoor component. This large metal box is usually installed on the roof of buildings and contains heating or cooling elements, a blower, filter racks, dampers, and sound attenuators. The component performs the following functions:

  • Heating
  • Cooling
  • Ventilation
  • Maintaining Indoor air quality
  • Humidity Control

Although air conditioners such as ductless mini-splits are perfectly suitable for cooling a small area, you would need Air Handler Units for larger facilities. To understand how they work and whether your facility requires one, let's learn about how the various components of an air handler work in tandem to condition air.

Components of an Air Handler Unit

The Blower Motor: Blower motors consist of two types of motors:

  • Single-speed systems (Runs at constant RPM)
  • Variable speed systems (RPM is adjusted by computer to maximize efficiency)

These motors are used to blow air into the unit through the ductwork of a building.

Refrigerant: It is the chemical compound that is circulated around the Air Handler Unit's condenser coils to extract or add heat from the environment.

Condenser Coils: They are used to regulate the indoor air temperature by withdrawing refrigerant in a gaseous state.

Filters: They are responsible for extracting dust, debris, and harmful particles from indoor environments, making them an important system component.

Reasons To Invest in An Air Handler Unit

Efficient in Cooling Large Areas

Spaces with larger ceilings and open spaces require more energy from the HVAC system, translating to higher power bills. As a business owner or facility manager, consider equipping your HVAC system with an efficient and powerful Air Handler if you are looking to heat or cool your facility while keeping your energy bills low. This will reduce the system's burden, improve results, create more efficient performance, and lead to fewer breakdowns.

Able to Condition Multiple Zones, Easily

Most HVAC systems struggle to condition the air for multiple zones, especially in larger facilities. If this sounds like a familiar issue, an Air Handler can be the answer! Air Handlers ensure that every corner of your facility is provided with cold or warm air while being comparatively highly cost-effective than purchasing multiple ductless mini-splits or packaged terminal air conditioners.

Specially Designed for Commercial Areas

Air Handler Units are among the most suitable options for HVAC equipment that commercial areas with centralized operation routes have.

They are preferred for their efficient energy consumption, ease of installation, and accessible maintenance.

Ease of Maintenance

Since Air Handler Units are made up of a series of large components in a singular box or separate modules, they are significantly easier to maintain than smaller air conditioning systems.

Now that we have discussed what Air Handlers are and why you would need one of them for your facility, it's time we deconstruct the topic a little more. There are mainly two types of Air Handlers that are commonly used:

  • Wall Mounted Air Handlers
  • Ceiling Mounted Air Handlers

What are they, and how do they differentiate? Keep reading to find out.

Wall Mounted Vs. Ceiling Mounted Air Handlers

he truth of the matter is that each of these configurations is good and provides improved efficient performance. While ceiling-mounted Air Handlers are less obtrusive than wall-mounted units, they are more time-consuming and expensive to install. On the other hand, wall-mounted units are easier to install and maintain. However, they take up wall space that could otherwise be used for other purposes. Furthermore, if your facility is located in a warm area, investing in a ceiling-mounted air handler can be particularly comparatively more effective for cooling. This is due to its powerful fans, which have the ability to regulate the proper distribution of air in larger spaces. Another factor that influences the buying decision is the construction style of the facility. If your facility does not have thick walls, you can't get a wall-mounted air handler installed as it needs to rest within the wall and requires at least 16 inches of space. Similarly, if your facility's ceilings do not have a decent amount of gap with the floor, it wouldn't be a good idea to invest in a ceiling-mount air handler. These are some of the main factors that you need to consider before investing in a new Air Handler for your facility.

If you have decided which Air Handler type you would prefer and are ready to invest in, let us help you choose the perfect unit for either of the categories:

Top Rated Air Handlers

Goodman (AVPEC59D14) 4.0T - 5.0T Variable Speed Air Handler, With ECM Motor

Goodman's AVPEC air handler provides effective air distribution for facilities of nearly all shapes and sizes. It includes a newly redesigned all-aluminum evaporator coil, thermoplastic drain pan, variable-speed fan motor, and internal thermostatic expansion valve. These cutting-edge components improve the efficiency of your system and the consistency of your comfort. If you're looking for perfect air circulation, look no further than Goodman's AVPEC air handler.

Product Features

  • ComfortNet Communicating System compatible
  • CFM indicator
  • Provides constant CFM over a wide range of static pressure conditions independent of the duct system
  • Cooling Cap. (BTU/h) - 48,000
  • Voltage - 208/230V
  • Weight (LB) - 160
  • Standards and Certifications - ETL, AHRI, ISO
  • Warranty - All parts (5 YEARS)

Goodman 2.5T Ceiling Mount Air Handler, Multi-Speed With ECM Motor

Goodman's ACNF310016 Air Handler works with the multi-speed PSC motor and plays a key role in reducing indoor humidity, creating a much more comfortable environment.

Product Features

  • High-efficiency evaporator coil
  • Quiet operation
  • Direct-drive, resilient-mount, multi-speed motor
  • Models with EEM motors: ACNF25 And ACNF46
  • Models with PSC motors: ACNF18, ACNF24, And ACNF30
  • Available with and without heat
  • AHRI Certified
  • ETL Listed
  • Suitable for free-return installation (non-ducted return air)
  • Galvanized-steel construction

If you are looking to buy Goodman (AVPEC59D14) 4.0T - 5.0T Variable Speed Air Handler, With ECM Motor or Goodman 2.5T Ceiling Mount Air Handler, Multi-Speed With ECM Motor, head to our online store or call us at (877) 776-8228 for the best price, quick delivery, and installation service.

ProServices Supply

ProServices Supply is a top supplier of major HVAC systems and HVAC components. We house residential equipment, commercial equipment, heating equipment, and service parts and accessories. Call us today at (877) 776 - 8228. and speak with one of our experts, who will provide you with a personalized experience.

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