Difference Between Air Conditioner and Air HandlerIntroductionAn air conditioning unit is responsible for regulating the temperature of the air inside your home, ensuring it is either warm or cold. On the other hand, air handlers play a crucial role in circulating the air throughout a given space without affecting its temperature. Air ConditionerAn air conditioning system, commonly known as an "AC," is designed to regulate and control the temperature within a space by providing cooling or heating. AC units are widely used for cooling purposes and come in various types to suit different needs, such as central air, window-unit AC, and ductless AC. For large buildings, rooftop systems are often utilized. Due to the versatility of AC units, you won't typically see them mounted on walls in places like malls or hospitals. In addition to cooling, AC systems also serve other important functions:
Air Conditioner ComponentsThe air conditioner relies on a combination of components to function properly, including the evaporator coil, compressor, condenser coil, expansion valve, air filter, refrigerant, fan, and thermostat. Air Conditioner WorksWhen comparing air conditioners and air handlers, most individuals typically refer to central air conditioners. However, there are various other types of air conditioners available, such as mini-splits, window units, and portable air conditioners. Air conditioners consist of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit contains the compressor and the condenser coil, while the indoor unit houses the evaporator coil. These key components are interconnected using copper pipes. Both the evaporator and condenser coils function as heat exchangers. Heat from the indoor air is absorbed within the evaporator coil, while in the condenser coil, it is released into the surrounding air. This heat exchange process is facilitated by a refrigerant, which is a chemical substance. The refrigerant enters the evaporator coil within the indoor unit as a very cold liquid. Depending on whether the air conditioner is connected to an air handler or a furnace, the fan will draw in hot air from the house and pass it over the coil. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air, effectively cooling it. The cooled air is then distributed back into the house through the supply air ducts. After absorbing heat from the air, the refrigerant vaporizes, exits the evaporator, and enters the compressor. The pressure of the refrigerant gas inside the compressor increases, resulting in a significant rise in its temperature. This increase in temperature is crucial for transferring heat to the hot air outside. In the process of heat exchange, heat is transferred from an area with a higher concentration to an area with a lower concentration. After being compressed, the refrigerant, which is in a superheated state, enters the condenser coil. As it passes through the coil, the condenser fan blows cooler air over it, causing the refrigerant to release heat and transfer it to the outside air. By the time the refrigerant exits the condenser coil, it has released so much heat that it has condensed back into a liquid form and is ready to return to the evaporator coil for further cooling. As you can observe, the condenser performs a similar function to the air handler, but they are distinct from each other. Air Conditioner AdvantagesAn air conditioner not only regulates the temperature to prevent discomfort from heat or cold, but it also offers additional advantages, as outlined below.
Air Conditioning Disadvantages
Air HandlerAn air handler, known as a "fan coil unit," is an essential component of an HVAC system. Its primary function is to efficiently distribute air throughout the vents and various rooms in your home. By working in conjunction with your heat pump or air conditioner, it enhances their performance and effectiveness. This unit is not only utilized in residential settings but also plays a crucial role in the central air conditioning systems of medium to large buildings. It can be found installed on the roof, floor, or basement. Air handlers come in three main types: single-speed, five-speed, and variable-speed, each offering different levels of control and efficiency. Air Handler ComponentsThe components of the air handling unit collaborate to guarantee its optimal performance, just like those of an air conditioner. These components include the housing, fan (blade and motor), heating/cooling coil, filters, panel, High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter, humidifier, and mixing box. Air Handler WorksAn air handler is a crucial component that works in conjunction with either an air conditioner or a heat pump. The blower, which is the most important part of the air handler, is often referred to as a blower by some individuals. A complete air handler consists of various components, including the blower, evaporator coil, electric heating strips, and air filter, among others. It is typically housed in a metallic box that resembles a furnace and is installed in the attic, basement, or closet. Air handlers are connected to both the return and supply air ducts. The return air ducts bring hot or cold air from the house for heating or cooling purposes. Inside the house, these ducts terminate at the return air vents. On the other hand, the supply air ducts carry cooled or heated air from the air handler to different areas of the house. As you can observe, the house, air handler, and ductwork form a continuous loop that operates continuously, regardless of whether the house is being cooled or heated. When the thermostat signals the need for cooling or heating, the air handler activates, and its blower starts drawing air from the house through the return air ducts. Depending on whether the air needs to be cooled or heated, it passes through the cooling or heating coil, where heat exchange occurs. Before the air is heated or cooled, it undergoes filtration to remove dust, lint, pollen, and other impurities. The conditioned air is then supplied back to the house through the supply air ducts. In addition to heating and cooling, air handlers also play a crucial role in ventilation. Ventilation involves intentionally replacing stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. Ventilation is an essential aspect of HVAC systems. To ensure your comfort, it is important to cool or heat the air and ensure its freshness. Recirculating the same air repeatedly can lead to stale indoor air. Activities such as breathing, cooking, and cleaning can lower the quality of indoor air, highlighting the need for proper ventilation. While natural ventilation can be achieved by simply opening doors and windows, it can reduce the efficiency of your cooling and heating systems. The air handler is linked to a vent that brings in fresh air from the outside, resulting in a mixture of indoor and outdoor air that is cooled, conditioned, and distributed throughout your home. Air Handler AdvantagesHere are the advantages associated with air handling units.
Air Handler DisadvantagesWhen an air handling unit experiences a malfunction, it can have a negative impact on the performance of the air conditioner or heat pump system it is designed to support. Air Conditioner vs Air Handlers
ConclusionAir conditioners are responsible for regulating indoor temperatures by cooling or heating the air, while air handlers distribute conditioned air throughout a space without affecting its temperature. Each system has distinct functions, components, and advantages, contributing to the overall comfort and efficiency of HVAC systems. Next TopicDifference Between |
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