Mitsubishi Mini Split System in Detroit – What Is an Air Handler?
An air handler is a mechanical device used to distribute air throughout a home or building. It is used in conjunction with a heat pump or air conditioning system, and may be installed indoors or outside the home depending on the model. The term “air handler unit" (AHU) is often used to described this device.
Mini Split System Reviews in Detroit – Air Handler.
The cooling process begins when fresh air from outside is fed into the air handler. A refrigerant or coolant in the handler cools this fresh air, then blowers or fans send it into the building's ductwork. The ducts distribute this cool air to each room. A second set of ductwork, known as “return ducts” collect warm exhaust air and transfer it back to the air handler.
Once the warm air reaches the air handling unit, the refrigerant in the unit collects the heat from the air and sends it to an outdoor compressor. The heat is expelled to the outside, and the refrigerant is sent back to the air handler to cool more air and repeat the cooling cycle. These systems work in reverse during the winter to heat the air in the home.
An air handler is typically installed on either the rooftop on in an indoor mechanical room. In general, these devices are located outdoors in a commercial application, and indoors in most residential settings. Special support pads made of concrete are often used to support them, and additional supports may be added to minimize noise and vibration.
