Why Your HVAC Air Handler Is In The Attic

What is an HVAC Air Handler?

The air handler is one of the most vital components in your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. Its primary function is to circulate conditioned air throughout your home. Here’s a breakdown of its functions:

Air Circulation

The air handler contains a blower fan that circulates air from the home’s interior through the return ducts, passes it through the HVAC system’s filters, and then pushes it back into the living or working spaces through the supply ducts.

Temperature Regulation

The air handler houses the evaporator coil (for cooling) or the heating elements (for heating). Depending on the season and the desired indoor temperature, the air handler either cools or heats the air passing through it.

Humidity Control

In addition to temperature regulation, some air handlers have features for controlling humidity levels. In humid climates, air handlers can dehumidify the air by condensing moisture from it on the evaporator coil. In dry climates, they can add moisture to the air through a humidifier.

Air Filtration

Air handlers typically contain air filters aimed at capturing pet dander, pollen, dust, and other airborne particles, which results in improved indoor air quality.

Ventilation

While the primary function of the air handler is to recirculate conditioned air, it can also integrate with ventilation systems to introduce fresh outdoor air into the building. This helps to maintain indoor air quality by diluting indoor pollutants and replenishing oxygen levels.
Overall, the HVAC air handler plays a vital role in maintaining comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency within buildings by regulating temperature, humidity, and air circulation.

Why Would The Air Handling Unit Be In The Attic?

In many cases, the air handler unit is located in the home’s attic. While it might seem like an odd placement at first, there are practical reasons behind this common setup.

Space Considerations

One primary reason for installing the HVAC unit in the attic is space efficiency. While air handlers come in various sizes, modern designs strive to balance efficiency and performance with space considerations, aiming to minimize the footprint while still meeting the building’s HVAC requirements. Attics often provide ample room for HVAC components without encroaching on valuable living space. With the unit above the living space, homeowners can maximize the square footage within their homes, utilizing the attic for storage or other purposes.

Accessibility

Attics are relatively accessible compared to other areas of the home, such as basements or crawl spaces. HVAC technicians can more easily access the air handler for installation, maintenance, and repairs without disrupting daily activities in the living areas.

Visual Appeal

Another advantage of placing the HVAC unit in the attic is improved aesthetics. By concealing the system overhead, homeowners can maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance within their living areas. This setup also eliminates the need for unsightly outdoor condenser units, contributing to a more visually pleasing exterior.

Sound Levels

Furthermore, locating the HVAC system in the attic helps to minimize noise disruptions indoors. The attic acts as a buffer zone, reducing the transmission of operational sounds from the unit into the living spaces below. This can lead to a quieter and more comfortable environment, especially during periods of heavy use.

Ductwork Accessibility

Attics provide ample space for running ductwork to distribute conditioned air throughout the home. The proximity of the air handler to the ductwork simplifies the installation process and reduces the length of duct runs, which can improve energy efficiency.

Insulation

Attics are typically well-insulated spaces, which helps to prevent heat loss or gain from the air handler and ductwork. This insulation helps maintain the efficiency of the HVAC system by reducing energy waste.

Summing It Up

While all of the above are advantages of installing air handlers in attics, it’s essential to consider factors such as adequate ventilation, proper structural support, and protections against moisture to ensure the longevity and efficiency of the HVAC system. Additionally, in regions with extreme temperatures, extra insulation and ventilation may be necessary to prevent the air handler from being affected by temperature fluctuations in the attic.