Is it getting a little warm inside? Stop side-eyeing your AC unit. The problem may be with your air handler unit instead. You might need to repair or refurbish your air handler—but what’s the difference and how do you know when you need to call an air handler repair specialist versus bringing in a new AC unit? Let’s take a look!
What is an air handler?
Have you ever wondered what that large metal box in your closet is? That’s your air handler—it’s the thing that is connected to your HVAC system that takes the air that is cooled by your AC and distributes it evenly throughout your house. If it isn’t working properly, then your AC could be chugging away, cooling a small area effectively, but you won’t be able to tell because you’ll have hotspots in your house where the cool air just isn’t making it.
What do you do when your air handler isn’t working? You bring in a specialist for a repair or refurbishment, of course. It isn’t as big a deal as it sounds, but you’ll definitely want to be sure that the air handler is the problem before you start on your repairs, so here are the five signs you need to look for to diagnose your air handler woes.
1) Your Fan Isn’t Blowing
It’s your number one fan—and your number one clue that you need to call an air handler repair technician. If the fan, or blower, isn’t blowing, or if it is making weird noises, it’s time to make a phone call. If the fan stops blowing the air-conditioned air through your HVAC system entirely, you’ll struggle to keep your temperatures liveable without overloading your AC unit. It’s best to call someone at the first sign of trouble when it comes to this symptom.
2) Condensation Leaks
Your air handler has a condensate pan that catches any of the condensation that naturally builds up as a result of the air temperature changes it creates. The pan will be located below the air handler, and it has lines and drains to keep that condensation from turning into a puddle on your floor. Those lines can get clogged, though, and when that happens, the pan can overflow. If you see any moisture or water damage around your air handler, you should be calling someone in to see if there is a problem.
3) Clogged Filters
You can lose air flow in your vents if you let your air filters get too clogged with dust, dirt, and debris. It’s best to be proactive and have an air handler repair specialist come on a regular maintenance schedule to check and change your filters. If you do notice a drop in air flow, though, and your fan seems to be working fine, then you definitely need to check your filters. Inefficient air flow means an inefficient cooling system overall.
4) Mold
If you see or smell mold in your home, you need to have your air handler serviced. Because it deals with so much condensation and moisture, it is possible for mold to grow in your filers or inside your HVAC. It’s also possible for other contaminants to get inside (like construction debris that may lead to respiratory issues). Keeping on top of your seasonal maintenance is the best preventative measure on this one, but if you do notice any mold in and around your system, don’t hesitate to call an air handler repair technician for a service.
5) The Blower Motor Stops
Blower motor failure can occur because of anything from a bad relay to a bad run capacitator, with a lot of other variables in between. If you suspect that your blower motor has failed, then you need to call in an air handler repair specialist. They will be able to diagnose your issue and get you the replacement parts you need to refurbish your unit.
Where to Get the Best Air Handler Repair Service
Talk to a local specialist if you notice any of the above issues with your air handler, or if you want to be proactive and have an air handler repair specialist schedule you into a proper seasonal maintenance routine so you can ensure your air handler is always in the best shape possible.