Hey folks, Mark Callahan here! When it comes to heating and cooling your home, air handlers are often a key component in keeping things comfortable year-round. Whether you're upgrading your current HVAC system or installing a new one, you might come across the term electric air handler or air handler with electric heat. These systems can make a huge difference in the comfort of your home, especially when paired with the right air conditioning and heating system.
In today’s blog, I’ll walk you through what an air handler with electric heat is, how it works, and why it might be the right choice for your home. Plus, I’ll explain the key benefits of having an electric air handler in your system and how it compares to other heating options like gas furnaces.
What is an Air Handler?
Before we dive into the specifics of air handler with electric heat, let’s first make sure we understand what an air handler is and why it’s crucial for your HVAC system.
An air handler is essentially the indoor component of an HVAC system. It’s the unit that moves air through your ducts to ensure that your home is cooled or heated efficiently. In simple terms, the air handler is responsible for distributing air throughout your home. It's made up of a blower, evaporator coil, and other essential components that help your HVAC system do its job.
Key Parts of an Air Handler:
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Blower Fan: This is what circulates air through the system and into your home.
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Evaporator Coil: Works in conjunction with the air conditioner or heat pump to cool the air.
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Electric Heater: If you have an air handler with electric heat, this component is responsible for providing the heat during colder months.
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Filter: Helps purify the air that’s circulated throughout your home, keeping dust and allergens in check.
What is an Electric Air Handler?
Now, let’s focus on the electric air handler. Unlike systems that rely on gas or oil for heat, an electric air handler uses electricity to power its heating elements, making it a great option for homes that don’t have a gas line or where gas heating may not be ideal.
An electric air handler has an electric heat coil or electric heating elements that generate warmth when the air passes over them. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to heat your home, especially when paired with an air conditioning system to cool your home during the hotter months.
How Does an Electric Air Handler Work?
In essence, the electric air handler works by pulling in cold air from the house and circulating it through the system. If you’re in heating mode, the air passes over the electric heat coils which warm the air before it's pushed back into your home. If you're in cooling mode, the air passes over the evaporator coil, cooling the air before circulating it.
The electric air handler can be installed with different HVAC systems, including heat pumps, where it works together to heat or cool your home effectively. When paired with a high-efficiency system, the electric air handler can deliver excellent comfort while keeping energy costs reasonable.
For more insights on how electric air handlers work, you can check out this AC Direct guide on air handlers.
Benefits of an Air Handler with Electric Heat
Now that we understand what an electric air handler is, let’s explore why this system might be a good fit for your home.
1. Energy Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of using an electric air handler is energy efficiency. Compared to older heating methods like oil or gas, electric heat is generally more efficient because it’s easier to control and doesn’t rely on combustible fuel. In the long run, an air handler with electric heat can help reduce your utility bills.
Many modern electric air handlers come with features like variable-speed blowers that use less electricity while still circulating air effectively. These features help boost your home’s overall energy efficiency, which is a win for both your wallet and the environment.
You can learn more about energy-efficient air systems on the U.S. Department of Energy website.
2. Reliability
Electric heat systems are highly reliable because they don’t have moving parts like combustion-based heating systems. If you’re looking for a system that requires less maintenance and has a longer lifespan, an electric air handler is a great choice. As long as the system is maintained and cleaned regularly, you’ll get many years of efficient heating.
3. Cleaner Air
Because electric air handlers don’t produce combustion gases like gas-powered systems, the air in your home will be cleaner. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues. Plus, many electric air handlers come with built-in filters that help purify the air as it’s circulated.
For more information on air quality in your home, check out the EPA's guide on air quality.
4. Cost-Effective Solution for Homes Without Gas Lines
If your home doesn’t have a gas line, installing a gas furnace or heat pump with a gas furnace might not be a practical or cost-effective option. In such cases, a air handler with electric heat is a much more economical option for keeping your home comfortable year-round. It can work effectively in both heating and cooling mode, providing a versatile solution for homes without gas access.
How Does an Air Handler with Electric Heat Compare to Other Heating Options?
Now that we’ve established what an electric air handler is and how it works, let’s look at how it compares to other heating options, such as gas furnaces or heat pumps.
Electric vs. Gas Furnaces
A gas furnace works by igniting natural gas to produce heat, which is then blown into your home. While gas furnaces tend to heat up a home faster, they also produce combustion gases that must be vented out of the home, and they require a gas line to function.
An electric air handler, on the other hand, doesn’t require gas or venting, which makes it more versatile and easier to install in homes that don’t have gas lines. While gas furnaces are often more cost-effective to run in colder climates, electric air handlers can still be a reliable and energy-efficient option, especially in milder climates.
Electric vs. Heat Pump Systems
Heat pumps are another excellent option for homeowners looking to heat and cool their homes. A heat pump system is a type of electric air handler that transfers heat from the outside air into the home. While heat pumps are very efficient, they work best in moderate climates and may struggle to provide adequate heating in extreme cold.
If you live in a region with harsh winters, a standalone electric air handler with electric heat might be a better option. It can provide consistent warmth without relying on outside air temperatures, ensuring you’re always comfortable.
Is the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle Right for You?
If you’re considering upgrading your HVAC system, the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle is a fantastic option. This bundle includes a high-efficiency air handler and air conditioning system, perfect for keeping your home comfortable year-round. Not only does it provide excellent performance, but it also uses R-32 refrigerant, an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants.
With 14.5 SEER2 efficiency, the Goodman system is designed to save you money on energy bills while providing consistent heating and cooling. Whether you’re replacing an outdated system or building a new home, this bundle is a solid choice for your HVAC needs.
Conclusion
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable, an air handler with electric heat can be a great addition to your HVAC system. Whether you're upgrading an old system or installing a new one, choosing an electric air handler offers a reliable, efficient, and low-maintenance way to stay comfortable all year long.
If you’re considering a new electric air handler or air handler with electric heat, be sure to look for high-efficiency systems like the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle to get the most out of your investment.
