Air Handler Vs Hydronic: Pros And Cons Of Each

When it comes to HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, there are two main types: air handlers and hydronic systems. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for your home will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the climate you live in, and your budget.

Air Handlers

An air handler is a device that circulates air throughout your home. It is typically installed in the attic or basement, and it uses a fan to draw air in from outside and circulate it through the ducts in your home. Air handlers can be used with a variety of different types of heating and cooling systems, including furnaces, heat pumps, and air conditioners.

Advantages of Air Handlers:

• Relatively inexpensive to install and operate
• Can be used with a variety of different heating and cooling systems
• Can be used to circulate air throughout your entire home
• Can help to improve indoor air quality

Disadvantages of Air Handlers:

• Can be noisy
• Can be difficult to maintain
• Can be less efficient than hydronic systems

Hydronic Systems

A hydronic system uses water to circulate heat throughout your home. It is typically installed in the basement or crawl space, and it uses a boiler to heat water. The hot water is then circulated through pipes in the floor, walls, or ceiling of your home. Hydronic systems can be used with a variety of different types of heating and cooling systems, including boilers, heat pumps, and solar thermal systems.

Advantages of Hydronic Systems:

• More efficient than air handlers
• Can be used to heat and cool your home
• Can be used to circulate heat throughout your entire home
• Can help to improve indoor air quality

Disadvantages of Hydronic Systems:

• More expensive to install and operate than air handlers
• Can be more difficult to maintain than air handlers
• Can be less flexible than air handlers

Which Type of System is Right for You?

The best type of HVAC system for your home will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the climate you live in, and your budget. If you have a small home in a mild climate, an air handler may be a good option for you. If you have a large home in a cold climate, a hydronic system may be a better choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a System

When choosing an HVAC system, there are a number of factors to consider, including:

• The size of your home: The size of your home will determine the size of the HVAC system you need.
• The climate you live in: The climate you live in will determine the type of HVAC system you need. If you live in a cold climate, you will need a system that can heat your home effectively. If you live in a warm climate, you will need a system that can cool your home effectively.
• Your budget: The cost of installing and operating an HVAC system can vary significantly. It is important to factor in the cost of installation, operation, and maintenance when choosing a system.

Installation and Maintenance

Both air handlers and hydronic systems require professional installation. It is important to hire a qualified HVAC contractor to install your system. Once your system is installed, it is important to have it maintained regularly. Regular maintenance can help to keep your system running efficiently and prevent costly repairs.

Summary: Choosing the Right HVAC System for Your Home

Choosing the right HVAC system for your home is an important decision. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision that will meet your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between an air handler and a hydronic system?

An air handler circulates air throughout your home, while a hydronic system circulates water throughout your home.

2. Which type of system is more efficient?

Hydronic systems are more efficient than air handlers.

3. Which type of system is more expensive to install and operate?

Hydronic systems are more expensive to install and operate than air handlers.

4. Which type of system is better for my home?

The best type of system for your home will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the climate you live in, and your budget.

5. How often should I have my HVAC system maintained?

It is important to have your HVAC system maintained regularly. Regular maintenance can help to keep your system running efficiently and prevent costly repairs.