Air Handler Vs Furnace: Which One Is Right For You?

When it comes to home comfort, two essential components play a crucial role: the air handler and the furnace. Both work together to provide warm or cool air throughout your living space, but they serve different functions. Understanding the distinctions between these two systems is vital for making informed decisions about your HVAC system.

What is an Air Handler?

An air handler is a component of a central air conditioning or heat pump system. It’s responsible for circulating and distributing conditioned air throughout your home via a network of ducts. The air handler contains a blower, which moves air through the ducts, and a coil, which transfers heat or cold from the refrigerant to the air.

What is a Furnace?

A furnace is a heating system that uses combustion to generate heat. It burns fuel, typically natural gas or propane, to heat air, which is then distributed throughout your home through ducts. Furnaces are commonly used in regions with cold climates where additional heating is necessary during winter.

Key Differences: Air Handler vs Furnace

1. Primary Function:

• Air handler: Circulates and distributes air
• Furnace: Generates heat

2. Fuel Source:

• Air handler: No fuel source
• Furnace: Uses fuel (gas or propane)

3. Operation:

• Air handler: Moves air and transfers heat/cold from refrigerant
• Furnace: Burns fuel to generate heat

4. Seasonal Use:

• Air handler: Used year-round (with AC or heat pump)
• Furnace: Primarily used during cold seasons

5. Installation:

• Air handler: Installed indoors, typically in a closet or attic
• Furnace: Installed indoors or outdoors

When to Choose an Air Handler vs Furnace

The choice between an air handler and a furnace depends on your specific heating and cooling needs.

Choose an Air Handler if:

• You have a central AC or heat pump system
• You need to circulate and distribute air throughout your home
• You want year-round comfort with both cooling and heating

Choose a Furnace if:

• You live in a cold climate and require additional heating
• You prefer a traditional heating system with fuel combustion
• You need a standalone heating solution

Integration with Other Systems

Air Handler: Integrates with central AC or heat pump systems to provide cooling and heating.

Furnace: Can be integrated with an air handler to form a central heating and cooling system or used as a standalone heating system.

Energy Efficiency Considerations

Both air handlers and furnaces come in varying levels of energy efficiency. Look for units with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings for air handlers and AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings for furnaces. Higher ratings indicate greater energy efficiency.

Maintenance and Repair

Air Handler: Requires regular filter changes and periodic inspections.

Furnace: Requires annual maintenance, including filter changes, cleaning, and safety checks.

Which is Right for You: Air Handler or Furnace?

Determining the right choice for your home depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you need year-round comfort with both cooling and heating, an air handler integrated with a central AC or heat pump system is an ideal option. If you live in a cold climate and require additional heating, a furnace is a suitable choice.

Recommendations: The Best Choice for Your Home

Understanding the differences between an air handler and a furnace empowers you to make informed decisions about your home comfort system. Consider your specific needs, climate, and energy efficiency goals to determine the best solution for your living space. Whether you choose an air handler or a furnace, regular maintenance and proper installation are crucial for optimal performance and longevity.