The air handler is the indoor cabinet of a split HVAC system. It houses the evaporator coil (where refrigerant absorbs heat from indoor air), the blower fan (which moves air through the duct system), the filter slot, and on heat pump systems, the auxiliary heat strips.
Air handlers are usually located in an interior closet, attic, garage, or basement crawlspace. They connect to the outdoor condenser via copper refrigerant lines and to the home via the ductwork.
Modern air handlers with ECM (electronically commutated motor) blowers run at variable airflow speeds, which improves both efficiency and humidity removal — particularly important in our climate.
Last reviewed:
Have a question about this?
Call our Charleston team. We’ll explain how air handler applies to your home — no charge for the conversation.