If you live in Tacoma, WA, or the surrounding areas, you may have an air handler as part of your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Not every system has one, but if yours does, you may require the professional air handler services available from the experts at Kliemann Brothers. Our professionals are happy to assist you with all of your residential cooling needs, including the important component known as an air handler.
What Is an Air Handler and How Does It Work?
Think of an air handler like the “lungs” of your HVAC system. This important component circulates treated (heated and cooled) air throughout your home and works with your heat pump or air conditioner. Here’s some more information about how air handlers work:
- Air intake and filtration: The air handler draws air from the return vents in your home, which passes through a filter to improve indoor air quality and remove allergens, dust, and other airborne particles.
- Air conditioning: The air passes over an evaporator coil to cool the air or a heating coil to heat the air.
- Air distribution: A blower fan forces the treated air through your ductwork and into the supply vents to distribute it throughout your home.
- Components: The air handler works with the blower or fan, the air filter, and the evaporator and/or heating coil.
- Location: Most air handlers are located inside your home and are usually placed in the basement, attic, or a dedicated closet space.
- Connection: Air handlers work in conjunction with your air conditioner or heat pump to distribute heated or cooled air through your home.
Signs Your Air Handler Needs Repair or Replacement
While not every problem you encounter with your HVAC system is related to the air handler, it’s important to recognize the signs that you may need HVAC air handler repair or replacement. Look for these common air handler problems, and remember these helpful air handler troubleshooting tips to help you identify issues early before they turn into costly breakdowns or the need for major repairs.
Weak Airflow
If it seems like the airflow coming from your HVAC is weak or inconsistent, it could be because the air handler isn’t blowing air forcefully enough. This issue may also be due to a dirty air filter, a clog in your ductwork, or an issue with the blower motor. Uneven temperatures could suggest that the air handler isn’t distributing the treated air evenly due to a faulty blower motor. Start by changing your air filter, and if you still have issues with airflow and uneven temperatures, contact Kliemann Brothers to schedule affordable air handler repair.
Strange Noises
While subtle, occasional noises from your HVAC are considered normal, loud and constant noises typically indicate an underlying issue. If you hear loud rattling, grinding, or squealing sounds, it might be due to issues with the fan bearings, the blower motor, a loose air handler, or problems with other components you can’t see. If you hear constant humming or whistling noises, it may be due to motor problems or a refrigerant leak. We recommend calling us for residential air handler services and other HVAC services so our experienced technicians can troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair the problem.
Rising Energy Bills
If your air handler is old or starting to malfunction, it needs to work harder to keep your home at the desired temperature. This means that your entire HVAC system is forced to work harder to treat the air, lowering its overall efficiency and resulting in higher-than-normal energy bills. If your air handler needs constant repairs, it could be time for HVAC system upgrades. We are happy to perform an air handler efficiency check to help you get to the root of the problem.
Odor and Humidity Issues
An unpleasant, musty, or moldy smell could mean moisture buildup inside your air handler, leading to mold or mildew growth. If you notice a burning smell, it might be due to an issue with electrical components, or you may have a short circuit somewhere. Unusually high indoor humidity could mean that your air handler is no longer effectively removing moisture from the air. Contact Kliemann Brothers if you need help locating and identifying the root of the problem.
Benefits of Regular Air Handler Maintenance
Routine air handler maintenance is beneficial in many ways. We recommend getting the air handler serviced at least once yearly for newer systems and twice yearly for older systems. Here are some reasons why getting regular air handler maintenance is so important:
- Routine maintenance prolongs the lifespan of your air handler and your entire HVAC system, protecting your investment.
- Preventative air handler maintenance allows you to identify issues early before they turn into costly repairs.
- A clean, well-maintained air handler supports safe, healthy indoor air quality for you and your family.
- When you maintain your air handler or upgrade to a new air handler, your HVAC system runs much more efficiently, saving you money on your monthly energy bills.
Why Choose Kliemann Bros for Air Handler Services?
There are plenty of reasons to choose Kliemann Brothers for professional air handler installation and other services, including:
- Our fast, reliable service: We offer same-day and emergency HVAC repair services to restore comfort to your home quickly.
- Our certified technicians: Kliemann Brothers’ team of highly trained, certified HVAC professionals has extensive experience in air handler repair, maintenance, and installation.
- Our energy-efficient solutions: We help customers optimize their HVAC systems for excellent performance and lower energy bills.
- Our upfront pricing: Whether it’s a repair or an upgrade, you’ll never get hidden fees with us, just honest and transparent pricing along with flexible financing options to help make our services affordable.
Schedule Your Air Handler Service Today
If you need air handler repair, maintenance, or an upgrade, trust the experts at Kliemann Brothers Heating, Air Conditioning, and Electrical. Our family-owned and operated company has proudly served customers in Tacoma, WA, and the south Puget Sound area since opening our doors in March 1998. If you want to learn more or schedule a reliable air handler service, contact us today!