What Are the Primary Components of an Air Handler?

Air handling units, or simply air handlers, are an integral component of any HVAC system, particularly commercial and industrial systems. They are tasked with circulating and conditioning air within a building, maintaining a pleasant indoor climate.



What Is an Air Handler?

An air handler is a piece of equipment that controls and distributes air within a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. It is usually found indoors, either on the roof, in a mechanical room, or within the building. The air handler does not produce heating or cooling on its own — rather, it operates in combination with other HVAC equipment such as chillers or heat pumps to manage the indoor climate.

In order to completely learn what are the main components of an air handler, it’s essential to break down each element that constitutes the system and their working together.

What Are the Main Components of an Air Handler?

This is a composition of the critical components usually located in an air handler unit (AHU):

1. Blower (Fan Section)

The blower is the force that pushes air through the unit and into the ductwork. Depending on the use, the fan can be centrifugal, axial, or plug-type. It has a significant effect on airflow and system pressure.

2. Cooling and Heating Coils

These coils condition the air. Chilled water or refrigerant flows through the cooling coil to cool the air, while hot water or electric coils warm the air as required. This is one of the most crucial responses to the question: what are the major parts of an air handler?

3. Filters

Filters purify the air prior to entering the ducts. They trap dust, allergens, and other particulates, safeguarding the equipment and indoor air quality. Filters vary from simple mesh types to HEPA-grade for sensitive applications.

4. Dampers

Dampers regulate the volume of air entering or exiting the air handler. They are applied for blending return and fresh air, or for isolating air supply to individual zones. These mechanical dampers assist in pressure and airflow regulation.

5. Humidifier/Dehumidifier (Optional)

In certain applications, some AHUs incorporate humidification or dehumidification equipment to control indoor humidity levels. This is particularly vital in locations with sensitive environmental conditions.

6. Controls and Sensors

Today’s air handlers are designed with sensors and controllers to track temperature, humidity, pressure, and flow rate. These devices make automation and integration with building management systems (BMS) possible, making them more efficient and reliable.

Knowing what are the main components of an air handler helps HVAC technicians and facility managers efficiently manage and maintain air handling systems for optimal performance.

Why Knowing These Components Matters

Now that we’ve answered what are the main components of an air handler, let’s explore why this knowledge is important:

Improved Maintenance: Knowing each part helps in diagnosing issues and performing preventive maintenance.

Energy Efficiency: Optimizing each component, such as using high-efficiency fans or advanced filters, can reduce energy consumption.

Better Air Quality: Proper filter selection and regular coil cleaning enhance indoor air quality.

System Longevity: Component functionality understanding prolongs the life of the overall HVAC system.


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