Trystan Casey
An air handler and an electric furnace are not the same things. An air handler is a device that can heat or cool a house, depending on the mode and thermostat setting. It does not generate its own heat but uses heat pump coils to heat the air. On the other hand, a furnace creates heat by burning fuel like natural gas, propane, or oil or by using an electric heating element to heat a heating coil. It then transfers the heat to the air and pushes it into the rooms. Furnaces are generally considered more suitable for extremely cold climates, while air handlers are preferred in moderately cold regions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Function | An air handler moves air around the home, whereas a furnace creates heat. |
| Heat source | A furnace is a direct heat source, whereas an air handler relies on a separate heat source, such as a heat pump or AC coil. |
| Energy efficiency | In warm climates, an air handler and heat pump system is more energy-efficient than a furnace. |
| Cooling | An air handler can cool a house, whereas a furnace cannot. |
| Noise | Air handlers are quieter than furnaces. |
| Indoor air quality | Air handlers improve indoor air quality. |
| Energy loss | Air handlers are designed to prevent energy loss. |
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What You'll Learn
An air handler does not generate heat, it moves air
An air handler and a furnace are two different pieces of HVAC equipment. A furnace generates heat by burning fuel like natural gas, propane, or oil, or by warming an electric heating coil. Once the heat is created, it is transferred to the air and then pushed out into your home. On the other hand, an air handler does not generate heat. Instead, it moves air around your home. It uses the heat pump coils to heat the air, which is why its heating power is limited.
An air handler is a great device in areas that are not extremely cold, as you can use it in both winter and summer. It can heat or cool your house depending on the mode and thermostat setting. When on heat mode, the heat pump coils heat up the air and subsequently the house. When on cool mode, the refrigerant in the AC system draws heat from the air, cooling it down.
If you live in an area where it's warm most of the year, a heat pump and air handler system will offer a more energy-efficient solution, saving you in monthly utility costs. However, in areas where it's cold most of the year, heat pumps can become ineffective as it is challenging to collect enough heat from outside, and a furnace would be a better option.
In some cases, your furnace may have everything you need to both heat and cool your home, and you won't need an additional air handler. However, if you are installing a new central air conditioning system, your existing furnace may not be compatible, and you may need an air handler as well.
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A furnace generates heat by burning fuel
A furnace is a heating unit that generates heat by burning fuel. This process is known as combustion, where fuel mixes with air in the burner system and is ignited, creating heat. The burner is the critical component responsible for combusting fuel and generating controlled heat. Modern furnaces may have multiple burners strategically positioned within the heating chamber to achieve target temperatures and uniform heat distribution.
There are different types of furnaces that operate uniquely and utilize a range of fuel sources. Furnaces can burn natural gas, propane, oil, or biofuels, and some may even use electricity. The choice of fuel influences the furnace's design, combustion technology, and cost. For instance, gas furnaces may be cheaper to run than heat pumps, and gas is easily available through pipelines. However, fuel-powered furnaces are more common than electric ones due to the high cost of electricity.
The heat generated by burning fuel in the furnace is transferred to the air, which is then circulated throughout the home. This is done by a circulating fan or blower fan, which is part of the furnace unit. The fan forces air through the system, drawing it in, pushing it through the heat exchanger, and then pushing the heated air out. The heat exchanger is a vital component as it transfers heat from the burning fuel to the air, and it is placed above the burner system so that heat and smoke rise into it.
Some homes may opt for an air handler instead of a furnace. An air handler moves and circulates air but does not generate heat, so it is often used with a heat pump. It uses coils to warm the air, similar to an air conditioner, but it cannot create heat on its own. In contrast, a furnace can heat air independently and distribute it through ductwork, making it a popular choice for heating homes in the United States.
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An air handler can heat or cool a house
An air handler is part of an HVAC system, and it can heat or cool a house. However, it does not generate its own heat. Instead, it relies on a separate heat source, such as a heat pump or AC coil, to heat the air. When in heating mode, the air handler blows air over the heat pump coils, which heats up the air and subsequently the house. When in cooling mode, the refrigerant in the AC system draws heat from the air, cooling it down.
Air handlers are a good option for those who live in moderately cold areas and want a device for both winter and summer. They are also energy-efficient, quiet, and improve indoor air quality.
On the other hand, a furnace is a direct heat source and generates its own heat by burning fuel such as natural gas, propane, or oil, or by warming an electric heating coil. Once it creates the heat, it transfers the heat to the air and pushes it back out into the home through a circulating fan. Furnaces are a better option for those living in extremely cold areas as they have more heating power and can work in very low temperatures.
Both air handlers and furnaces help heat the surrounding air to keep homes comfortable, but they differ in their mechanisms and are suited to different climates.
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A furnace can only heat a space
On the other hand, an air handler can both heat and cool a house. It does not generate its own heat but relies on a separate source, like a heat pump, to deliver heated air. When on heat mode, the heat pump coils heat up the air, and subsequently, the house. When on cool mode, the refrigerant in the AC system draws heat from the air, cooling it down. Air handlers are ideal for moderately cold areas and are a great option if you want a device for all seasons. They are also energy-efficient, quiet, and improve indoor air quality.
The choice between a furnace and an air handler depends on your heating requirements and the usual climate in your area. If you live in a place that experiences very cold winters, a furnace is a great choice. However, if you live in an area that is only moderately cold and you want a device for both winter and summer, an air handler is a better option.
It is important to note that if you own a furnace, you may not need a dedicated air handler because the furnace blower works to circulate both heated and cooled air throughout your home. However, if you are installing a new central air conditioning system, your existing furnace may not be compatible, and you may need an air handler as well.
In summary, while a furnace can only heat a space, an air handler can both heat and cool a house, depending on the mode and thermostat setting. The decision to choose between a furnace and an air handler depends on your specific needs and requirements.
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A heat pump and air handler are more energy-efficient in warmer climates
An air handler is a component of an HVAC system that moves air. It does not generate heat on its own, but it can warm the air using a set of coils when paired with a heat pump. A furnace, on the other hand, generates heat by burning fuel or warming an electric heating coil.
In warmer climates, a heat pump and air handler can be a more energy-efficient solution than a furnace. Heat pumps are devices that can both heat and cool a home by transferring heat rather than generating it. During the warmer months, a heat pump can efficiently heat and cool a home, while during the colder months, the system may switch to a gas furnace for better performance in cold weather.
Heat pumps are more energy-efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems and can reduce household carbon emissions. They are more common in milder climates where temperatures do not typically drop below freezing. In colder regions, heat pumps can be combined with furnaces for energy-efficient heating on all but the coldest days. New cold climate heat pumps can provide energy-efficient heating even when it's below freezing outside.
For new homes or remodels, some homeowners are eliminating furnaces and opting for air handlers and heat pumps. This combination is popular among those seeking the most energy-efficient and dependable heating and cooling system. Air handlers are quiet, improve indoor air quality, and are designed to prevent energy loss.
In summary, a heat pump and air handler can be a more energy-efficient solution than a furnace in warmer climates. Heat pumps are more efficient at transferring heat in milder temperatures, while furnaces are better suited for generating heat in colder weather. The combination of a heat pump and air handler also offers additional benefits such as improved indoor air quality and reduced energy loss.
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Frequently asked questions
An air handler does not generate its own heat, instead, it uses the heat pump coils to heat the air. On the other hand, an electric furnace heats a heating coil akin to a space heater.
Yes, an electric furnace uses a blower to circulate air after heat exchange occurs.
Yes, an air handler can be used to cool a house. When used in AC mode, the air handler pulls all warm or moist air from the home’s interior into the unit, and then the air blows onto the coils.
Yes, an electric furnace can be used with a heat pump. A heat pump can be used as an alternative to an electric furnace.
The answer depends on your heating requirements. If you live in moderately cold areas, an air handler will suffice. But, if the weather gets extremely cold in your area, an electric furnace is more reliable.
