You’ve picked out the right R-32 air conditioner and matching air handler—great! But now you’re faced with a question that might not seem important… until it is:
Where should your air handler go? In the attic? The closet? Somewhere else?
The answer depends on your home layout, maintenance needs, and how much you care about long-term efficiency and indoor comfort. Let’s break it down.
What Exactly Is an Air Handler?
An air handler is the indoor part of your cooling (or heating) system. It moves air, holds the evaporator coil, and ensures your house stays comfortable. It’s quiet, it’s hardworking, and it’s often forgotten… until something goes wrong.
Where you place it can make a big difference in:
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Energy efficiency
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Service access
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Noise levels
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Indoor air quality
Closet Installation: Easy Access, Smart for Service
Pros:
✅ Easier to install and maintain – Everything’s right at eye level, making routine maintenance and filter changes a breeze.
✅ Better for conditioned airflow – Being inside the living space helps reduce heat gain or loss.
✅ Quieter – Most people find closet units produce less vibration and noise in the ductwork.
Cons:
❌ Takes up valuable square footage – You’re giving up part of a closet or utility room.
❌ Requires good sealing and insulation – To prevent air leaks and keep the space safe.
Best for: Ranch homes, single-story houses, and retrofits in warmer climates.
Attic Installation: Space Saver, But Watch for Heat
Pros:
✅ Saves space – Keeps your living areas clear.
✅ Ideal for homes with vertical ducting – Especially two-story homes.
Cons:
❌ Harder to access – Attics can be tight, hot, or not even floored. Not fun for maintenance.
❌ Efficiency hit – Attics get hot. This can raise the coil temperature and lower system efficiency—especially if ducts aren’t insulated well.
❌ Risk of freeze-ups in cold climates – An unconditioned attic in winter can lead to frozen components.
Best for: New construction, homes with limited utility space, and situations where access isn’t frequent.
The Wild Card: Garage or Crawlspace Installations
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Garages: OK for mild climates, but you’ll want insulated ducts and vapor barriers.
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Crawlspaces: Can work, but beware of moisture and mold. Vapor sealing and dehumidification are musts.
Mark’s Pro Tips for Better Air Handler Performance (Wherever You Place It)
🔧 Install a secondary drain pan – Especially in the attic. It’s your insurance policy against water damage.
🌡️ Insulate ductwork thoroughly – This is key in attics or crawlspaces to prevent energy loss.
📏 Allow for service clearance – Don’t wedge the unit in tight. Make room to work around it.
🛑 Don’t skimp on a filter slot – Choose a spot where changing filters is easy. It matters more than you think.
Still Not Sure? Here’s a Simple Rule of Thumb:
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If it’s hot where you live, keep your air handler out of the attic when you can.
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If space is tight, the attic might be your only option—but do it right with good insulation and access panels.
Final Thoughts from Mark
Where you place your air handler isn’t just a construction decision—it’s a comfort decision. And the right call today means fewer headaches (and service calls) tomorrow.
Need help picking the right unit and the best spot to install it? We’ve got you covered at The Furnace Outlet.
