An air handler is an important part of your home air conditioning system as it helps to circulate cool air through your Peachtree City, GA home. A common place to install this is in the attic.
Where should air handler be installed?
To avoid the need for long ducting that can reduce efficiency, the air handler is best installed as close to the center of the home as possible. Two common installation choices are a utility closet inside the house or a well-sealed equipment room in the garage.
Is it good to have AC unit in attic?
Attic units can use more energy – The main negative aspect of attic air conditioning units is that tend to be inefficient from an energy usage perspective. Contractors typically try to increase efficiency by sealing all of the air ducts located in any attic space.
Does my air handler in the attic have a filter?
The air handler is a large metal box that stores the AC’s fan and motor. You can typically find it inside the attic or basement. When you find it, the replaceable filter is on the unit’s left side, right side, top, or bottom.
Why is my air handler sweating in the attic?
Humid Air and Air Flow
If an air handler is in a garage, attic, crawlspace, or closet, it might experience less air flow and humid air. This is a common occurrence in Florida garages. Hot, humid air mixes with the cold internal air of the air handler by the cold metal of the unit causing condensation.
How long do air handlers last?
In general, most HVAC systems will last from 15 to 25 years, but depending on the type of system and other contributing factors, that estimate can be highly variable.
How does an attic air handler work?
Just like a furnace, air handlers contain a blower (fan), controls, and an evaporator coil that conditions and recirculates the air in your home. The air handler works with the outdoor unit (a condenser or heat pump) in a typical split-system by using refrigerant lines that connect the two systems.
Do air handlers need venting?
An air handler is also all electric and does not require venting any exhaust outside. The only way an air handler can heat air is by using an outdoor heat pump or by adding an optional electric heat element. This heat element acts like a toaster, heating air blown past it.
What part of AC goes in attic?
Our central air conditioner is called a vertical system because it stands up, where attic and roof installations lay horizontally.
How do I get hot air out of my attic?
Install electric ventilators and attic fans, which remove hot air from an attic. They have thermostats that turn the fan on at a recommended preset temperature of 100-110 degrees. Alternatively, install passive vents such as gable, soffit and ridge vents, which are openings in the roof that allow hot air to escape.
Will venting my attic cool my house?
Venting your attic helps maintain an appropriate and consistent temperature inside your attic, as well as throughout the rest of your home. However, ventilation alone may not be able to keep an attic cool in the summer. Your best bet is to combine air circulation with an attic fan to help reduce your cooling costs.
How much does an air handler cost?
Air handler costs depend more on the quality of your chosen unit than the size. You should expect to pay somewhere between $500 for a basic model and $3,500 for a premium air handler. However, most people pay between about $700 and $1,500 for a new air handler without installation, according to data from Pick HVAC.
Do I need an air handler with a furnace?
If you have a furnace you probably don’t need to worry about an air handler. Air handlers tend to be used with heat pumps and help manage air flow throughout the building. Some units also provide backup heating and cooling elements to help out the heat pump.
Where is the attic air filter located?
Horizontal units are frequently located in attics, large basements or garages. The filter usually fits in a slot on the air return side of the unit. These systems are usually found in smaller basements or crawl spaces where space is limited. The filter typically slides into a slot above or below the HVAC unit.
Why is my air handler dripping?
It can be several things such as a clogged condensate drain line, the drain pan is damaged or rusted, the condensate pump is broken, the air filter is not clean, or the refrigerant is low.
How do you fix a leaking air handler?
How to Fix a Leaking AC Unit: A Step-By-Step Guide
Locate the PVC Pipe Near Air Handler’s Drain Pan.Unscrew the Cap and Pour About 6 Ounces of Vinegar Down the Drain.Locate Outdoor Condensate Drain Line.Connect Wet-Dry Vacuum and Turn On 3. Clogged Air Filter. Look for Frozen Coils.
How do I stop condensation in my air ducts?
Wrapping your AC ductwork is an effective way to prevent condensation. Duct wrap has a foam insulation inner layer and a foil outer layer. Cleanly wrap it around the AC duct and fasten with duct tape near the joints.
