What Makes a Good Split System Air Handler?

Your split system air handler has a lot of work to do. It's responsible for pushing conditioned air through the ductwork to every part of the home. Simultaneously, it is passing heat through the coil to the condenser outside.

Of course, that's just in summer. If you use a heat pump, then the air handling unit keeps going in winter by receiving heat from the condenser to keep your home warm. In short, an air handler is a pretty important part of your central heating and air installation.

What kind of split system air handler should I buy?

For starters, don't run out and buy the first air handling unit you find. Chances are you'd get something incompatible with your condenser and improperly sized for your home. When you're in the market for an air handling unit, keep the following criteria in mind:

Compatibility 

An air handling unit isn't the whole system, so it's got to work effectively with everything else. If you buy one that is improperly matched with your air conditioner or heat pump, you're going to have problems.

Capacity 

Few homes are exactly alike, and you need an air handling unit that can push the ideal air flow your home needs. Have a Manual J Load Calculation done on your home. Then, buy an air handling unit according to those specifications. This will save you time and money in the long run.

Efficiency 

The more efficient your HVAC system, the less you spend over the long term. This includes your air handling unit! Less efficient equipment is cheaper up front, but there are hidden costs down the road. That cost often comes in the form of a higher monthly utility bill.

Warranty 

Many industry manufacturers provide reliable and effective warranty packages for their air handling units. Pick a reliable warranty and don't forget to follow the registration guidelines.

Not Sure?

Still have questions? Ask away in our Q&A section below, send us a chat message, drop an email, or call! We are ready and able to answer any HVAC question you have.