An HVAC system’s variable speed air handler is typically the indoor unit. This unit houses the blower that circulates air throughout an indoor space. The handler works with an HVAC system’s heating and cooling components. It is also known as the furnace.
The performance of the air handler plays a huge role in determining the efficiency of your HVAC system. An efficient air handler can deliver adequate heating and cooling year-round without consuming too much energy.
On the other hand, poor heating and cooling, unusually high energy bills, and hot and cold spots indicate that the handler is not working properly. You will typically need a professional air conditioning installation and repair expert to install or repair an air handler.
Types of Air Handlers
Different types of air handlers can be used with a residential HVAC system. The common types of air handlers that are typically used include:
- Single-Speed Air Handlers: Single-speed air handlers run at their full every time you turn them on. This means you have little control over adjusting the heating or cooling delivered by these handlers. You either receive full-blown heating or cooling or turn them off. The obvious downside to these handlers is that they consume a lot of electricity.
- Multi-Speed Air Handlers: Multi-speed blower motors have two, or sometimes three, levels of operation instead of the single level in single-speed handlers. The handler starts working at full blast but eventually transitions into a lower setting. This allows the handler to ensure better heating or cooling while consuming less energy.
- Variable-Speed Air Handlers: Variable-speed air handlers are a step above multi-speed handlers. This type of air handler can operate at various speeds depending on the space’s current temperature. Below is a look at the benefits of using this type of handler.
Variable-Speed Air Handler Benefits
A variable-speed air handler offers a wide range of benefits. These include:
- Better Temperature Regulation: The stand-out advantage of a variable-speed air handler is that it can better regulate temperature, so you can enjoy even more heating and cooling year-round. This contrasts with single-speed handlers, which can be too hot or not hot enough in winter and barely cool or cold during the summer.
- Better Air Quality: Variable-speed handlers quiet down to a lower level of operation instead of stopping altogether. This allows these handlers to continue to function for longer, resulting in more extensive air filtration and better indoor air quality. This is a significant advantage if you have people at your home with respiratory problems or skin allergies.
- Noise Reduction: A variable speed air handler begins its operation at a low setting, meaning there is very little noise. It then ramps up its operation to ensure the desired heating or cooling degree. Once this level is achieved, the handler again tones down to a quiet operation. This allows the variable-speed blower motor to work without producing any notable noise most of the time.
- Energy Efficiency: A variable-speed handler adjusts its operation to always operate at the lowest possible level. This means the handler utilizes the least energy needed to reach the temperature you set. So the handler can consume less energy and save you significantly in energy bills.
Despite the numerous advantages of a variable-speed air handler, it also has its downsides. The major downside to this variety of handlers is that you must pay more upfront. This is because variable-speed handlers cost more than multi-speed handlers and more than single-speed air handlers.
These higher upfront costs are also translated into greater maintenance costs, as variable-speed handlers cost more to repair. So, this is a viable option only if you can commit to the higher unit and maintenance costs.
Hiring a Reliable Greenville, SC, Heating and Air Expert
If you intend to have the furnace, air handler, or any other component of an HVAC system installed at your home, we can help you. At General Air, we offer a comprehensive range of HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance services. Our experts work with residential and commercial HVAC systems, so we are the go-to choice for Greenville homeowners and businesses.
If you want an air handler installed or repaired or simply wish to consult an expert to decide which type is best for you, contact us. Call us at 864-936-8413 for free estimates, expert advice, and a service schedule.
