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Can I put my air handler in a closet?
If a full closet return (i.e., air handler on stand in closet) is unavoidable, seal all joints, seams, and edges of the closet air barrier (e.g., drywall, floor finish, sub-floor). Install an air barrier, if necessary, to enclose wall cavities and separate the closet from the attic.
Where should I place my air handler?
They can be installed in a utility closet or utility room in the home, in an unvented attic, or in an insulated and air-sealed basement or crawlspace. If a system must be located in the garage, an insulated and air-sealed closet should be constructed to completely isolate the HVAC equipment from the garage.
Can I install my own air handler?
Additionally, installing an HVAC unit yourself without experience could be dangerous. While do-it-yourself projects can help you save money in some cases, redoing or installing HVAC systems isn’t one of these projects. Instead, you should hire a professional HVAC technician to handle this monumental task for you.
Do air handlers need venting?
An air handler is also all electric and does not require venting any exhaust outside. The only way an air handler can heat air is by using an outdoor heat pump or by adding an optional electric heat element. This heat element acts like a toaster, heating air blown past it.
How much does it cost to move an air handler?
Whether or not the expensive relocation of your HVAC system will be worth it will depend heavily on the reasons for the move. Cost of relocation can approach $1,000, so if this is part of a remodel, you’ll want to add that into the entire cost of the project.
Do closets need AC?
It really all depends on where the closet is. If it’s within the middle of the home and not against unconditioned space; it may not be necessary. As a home inspector you just need to note rooms that don’t have supply vents; I find them all the time behind drywall and have never been cut out.
Is it hard to move an air handler?
If you’re not a professional contractor yourself, it may be too difficult to attempt on your own. While moving an HVAC unit can be expensive, depending on the extent of the work required and how far you’re wanting to move it, it can be less expensive overall to hire a professional to do it right the first time.
How do I stop condensation on my air handler?
Hot, humid air mixes with the cold internal air of the air handler by the cold metal of the unit causing condensation. Add more air flow around the air handler by adding vents or a physical fan. If the unit is in a closet or garage keep the doors open, or add a fan.
Should I put my air handler in the attic?
Reduced Energy Bills An additional benefit of having your AC handler in the attic is that it can lead to a reduction in your utility bills. Since it can cool the home more evenly, it won’t have to work as hard. This will lead to a reduction in energy bills.
Can you put central air in a house with no ductwork?
While any form of installing central air in a house without ducts will require some cutting and modifications, using a high-velocity or mini-split system can provide a much less intrusive, more economical solution in many cases.
How hard is it to install central air yourself?
Installing a central AC system is hard work. You’ll probably be required to do a lot of manual labour, including lifting heavy equipment, pouring a concrete foundation and even getting under the house. If this is not your idea of fun, you can pass this work over to the professionals.
Can you install central air in an old house?
Go All-In with Central Air or Heat Pumps Is installing central air in an old house possible? Sure. It’s an expensive and timely undertaking, but central air conditioning controls the climate of the whole home and offers higher efficiency—a key component that may mean money back in your pocket.
How do air handlers heat?
Surprisingly, an air handler itself doesn’t heat or cool the air at all. Instead, it blows indoor air across an internal heat exchanger or coil to add or remove heat from the air.
What is the difference between an air conditioner and an air handler?
Air handlers are designed to move air around. That’s all that they do. They don’t heat up or cool down, they move air. Air conditioners, on the other hand, exist only to cool air by removing heat from the outdoor air.
How much is an air handler unit?
An air handler costs $500 to $3,500, with most homeowners paying $700 to $1,500. This does not include installation, which averages $1,500 and ranges $200 to $2,100. Air handlers connect to an air conditioner or heat pump to provide cooled or heated air for an indoor space.
