An AC air handler is a unit located in your home or building that has a blower fan, heating and/or cooling parts, filters, and dampers. The air handler controls how much air is sent out through the air conditioner or heater. It also determines whether or not the air sent is warm or cool. An air handler, or air handling unit, is a device used to condition and circulate air as part of a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system. An air handler is usually a large metal containing a blower, heating or cooling elements, filter racks or chambers, and dampers.
All this being said—the air handler is a very important component of an AC unit. With the summer months fast approaching in Gaithersburg, Germantown, Potomac, Clarksburg, and nearby areas in Montgomery County, MD,it’s important you understand common AC air handler unit trouble signs that may require professional AC repair:
Fan Unit Problems
The fan unit that works in conjunction with the air handler is the fan that actually blows the air throughout a home or building. If the unit starts making odd noises or fails to blow at all, the main air conditioning fan may need to be replaced.
Condensate Leaks
A very common indicator of AC air handler unit trouble is condensate pan leaks. AC units work hard during the summer and create a lot of condensation that will accumulate in the pan below the air handler. As algae builds up in the lines, it can clog the drain line, causing the pan to overflow and potentially cause water damage. In some cases, bugs or mice may have entered the drain line from the outside of the house and clogged the line. If you notice moisture or water pooling below your air handler, a condensate leak is usually the cause.
Dirty AC Blowers
The filters in your home’s air handling unit protect its blower assembly. A typical AC unit circulates air through a “squirrel cage” blower fan in your home’s ductwork. It’s absolutely crucial for you to check and change air filters at least on a monthly basis when the system is in use. It’s possible for air conditioning airflow to double when a very dirty fan of this type is cleaned or replaced.
Contaminated Blower Compartments
Contaminated blower compartments can lead to poor indoor air quality. Leaks into the blower compartment of an HVAC air handler can create mold problems as well. This condition suggests that the unit has not had seasonal AC maintenance.
These are the most common problems pertaining to an AC system’s air handler unit. If you observe one or more, contact Michael Bonsby HVAC & Plumbing today for professional AC services.
