Why Install an Air Handler in the Attic? Benefits & Risks

How to Install an Air Handler in an Attic

key takeaways

To install an air handler in an attic, choose an accessible location, ideally away from the south-facing side to reduce heat exposure. Proper insulation, ventilation, and shading can prevent heat build-up that causes system inefficiency. Air conditioner shade can expand your system lifespan and improve efficiency during hot weather. The installation of awnings and shade covers for the air conditioning unit helps protect it from direct sunlight and reduces strain.

What is an Attic Air Handler?

An attic air handler is a unit installed in the attic that circulates heated or cooled air throughout your home. It works with your HVAC system to maintain comfortable temperatures.

Installing an Air Handler on a Sun-Facing Side of the Attic

Installation of an air handler on a sun-facing side of the attic can come up with a few challenges. The temperature within the device rises significantly when sunshine strikes the air handler. High temperatures can reduce the efficiency of the system. But, with proper insulation, ventilation, and shading, you can reduce the transfer of heat from the attic to the HVAC system.

Challenges of Sun-Facing Installations

  • The biggest challenge of sun-facing attics is when it reaches extremely high temperatures in summer. This can strain the air handler which reduces its efficiency.
  • Extended exposure to high temperatures speeds up the breakdown of components, such as mechanical parts, wiring, and insulation.
  • High temperatures can cause condensation problems. Exacerbating moisture buildup in the attic and potentially causing damage to the system.
  • Constant exposure to the sun's heat can cause the air handler to struggle with efficient cooling.

Best Practices for Sun-Exposed Installations

  • Appropriate Insulation: You can reduce the transfer of heat from the attic into the system by using high-quality insulation around the air handler and ductwork.
  • Sun Protection Barriers: To exclude sunlight and reduce attic temperatures, apply reflective coatings or radiant barriers to the roof.
  • Ventilation: Make sure the attic has enough airflow to release heat and cool the area around the air handler.
  • Shading: To lessen direct sunlight on the roof above the air handler, install exterior shading devices like awning over air conditioners or solar screens.

Installing an Air Handler on the South-Facing Side of the Attic

In summer, the south-facing side of the attic faces extreme heat. The direct sunlight can heat the air handler and make it harder to work. Proper insulation and ventilation are necessary to prevent overheating.

Climate Considerations for South-Facing Attic Installations

The efficiency of air handler installations in south-facing attics is dependent on the climate. In hot regions, the attic can become a heat trap that reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system. Implementing radiant barrier, additional insulation, and ventilation can control the attic temperature.

Optimizing Airflow in Sun-Exposed Areas

A south-facing side is usually a sun-exposed area of your home. It is important to maintain the indoor temperature by optimizing airflow. Installation for larger ductwork and using reflective roofing material can also reduce the heat buildup. It also reduces the strain on your HVAC system caused by high temperatures.

How to make air handler in attic more efficient

  • Seal Ductwork: Ensure all ducts are properly sealed to prevent air leaks.
  • Add Insulation: Insulate the attic and the air handler unit itself to reduce energy loss.
  • Regular Maintenance: Replace filters regularly and have the system inspected annually.
  • Upgrade Thermostat: Use a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize heating and cooling cycles.
  • Proper Ventilation: Ensure the attic is well-ventilated to prevent overheating of the unit.

Where to Put HVAC Units: Air Handler Location Options

To avoid the need for long ducting that can reduce efficiency, the air handler is best installed as close to the center of the home as possible. If space permits, the most convenient place for the furnace, or air handler unit (AHU) if it’s equipped with air conditioning, is in the basement of the home. Another option for installing your HVAC is the garage.

Garage Installations in Florida

In Florida, the installation of air handler units is common due to the climate and space considerations. If you install your HVAC unit in the garage, it will be easy for you to maintain and repair it because of easy accessibility. It keeps the noise away from the living area. But, during the summer, your garage can experience high temperatures if it is not insulated. Your bill will go up since your unit will have to work harder.

Ideal Locations in Various House Types

The design of the home can affect where an HVAC system is best placed. The best place for the air handler unit AHU for single or two-story houses is the central corridor. The attic or basement is the best place to centralize airflow in multi-story houses. Crawl areas or utility closets are ideal in ranch-style homes.

Benefits of Installing HVAC Units in Garages

There are several benefits of installing HVAC units in garages. Firstly, it makes living spaces more useful. Garage installation helps keep the noise generated by the system’s functioning away from occupied spaces. More workspace is available for technicians to work on installations and repairs. It reduces the system’s exposure to dust, filth, and outside factors which prolongs its life.

What Kind Of HVAC System Is Usually Installed In Florida

The most common option for whole-house cooling in Florida is central air conditioning. These units work well at keeping the house at a constant temperature.  For homes in Florida, ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are also an option.

These systems provide zoned heating and cooling without requiring a large-scale duct installation. Another option that is considered in Florida is heat pumps. Heat pumps offer both heating and cooling. They function best in places where it doesn’t often get below freezing.

HVAC System Is Usually Installed In Florida

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Which Is The Best Location For An Outdoor Condensing Unit

The unit should be positioned flat, in a shaded area, away from water and direct sunlight for optimal cooling. A wall facing either north or south is the ideal location; east and west walls should be avoided since they receive greater sun exposure in the summer.

Using Shade To Improve AC Efficiency

Proper placement of shade for AC units can improve their efficiency and expand their lifespan during summertime. By lowering the outside temperature, an air conditioner shade promotes more efficient cooling of the system. Installing shade for AC units, such as trees, awnings over air conditioners, or specially designed covers can lower the workload on the system. Even though an a/c shade can improve efficiency, it is important to keep enough airflow surrounding the unit to avoid overheating.

Ac Shade Ideas And Covers

You can improve your air conditioner’s efficiency and expand its lifespan by using the right ac unit shade cover. You can try different AC shade ideas that protect your AC handling unit (AHU) from dust, debris, direct sunlight, and other external factors. These shade covers for the air conditioning unit saves your HVAC system from producing extra heat in the summertime. This outdoor air conditioner cover gives year-round protection while providing the additional benefit of shading.

How To Hide Air Conditioner Unit Outside

The AC unit can be maintained attractive and accessible by stacking large wooden planter boxes around two of its sides. After the boxes are installed, you can plant any flowers or plants that suit the area’s lighting conditions and the height at which you want your coverage to be.

Protective Solutions For Outdoor AC units

From time to time, your swamp cooler needs some repair and fixes If it gets damaged. You can inspect and examine the problem yourself ( DIY) such as by cleaning the components, checking the capacitor, and examining the electrical issue.

You can fix minor issues yourself, but for major issues with your swamp cooler, you need to have a professional by your side. That’s when you can call professionals from All Seasons Home HVAC that has more than 20 years of experience in providing these services.

  • Using an a/c shade
  • Erecting a trellis
  • Using outdoor screen
  • Surrounding your AC unit with plants
  • Using a wooden fence covering ac unit
  • Planting trees
  • Using an outdoor air conditioner cover
  • Cleaning the AC unit
  • Using lattice panels
  • Placing outdoor privacy screens

Installing Awnings Or Covers

Installing awnings or covers can increase the longevity of your HVAC system and prevent it from inefficiency. Basically, this installation prevents your system from overeating and keeps its temperature balanced. When you install awnings over the air conditioner, make sure there is enough space for ventilation to prevent overheating. Using an outdoor air conditioner cover is also a great option to protect your air handler unit (AHU) from summertime heat and harsh weather.

People Also Ask

Can An Air Handler Be Installed In An Attic?

Yes, the installation of the air handler in the attic helps shield it from possible damage from bugs, accidents, and flooding. It’s important to have your attic properly insulated if you plan to install an AC handler in the attic.

What Is a Major Problem With Attic-Based Air Handling Units?

The main problem with attic-based air conditioning units is their lack of efficiency. Since attics are usually unconditioned areas, any duct leaks can drastically lower the energy efficiency of the entire house. It’s important to properly seal and insulate air ducts.

What Is The Disadvantage Of Having The Heat Pump Air Handler Installed In The Attic?

Compared to a heat pump in a closet or basement, an attic heat pump is exposed to more extreme temperatures. This can reduce your system’s efficiency. Additionally, it consumes more energy which increases utility bills.

What Is The Average Cost Of An Air Handler?

Replacing an air handler costs between $1,500 and $3,400, including the unit and installation, with most people paying around $2,450. The cost of the air handler is between $700 to $1,600 with  $800 to $1,800 for the cost of labor replacement.

Where Is The Best Place To Install An Air Handler?

The home’s basement is the most feasible place for the furnace, or air handler unit (AHU) if it is equipped with air conditioning. A single- or two-story home’s central corridor is the next ideal place for the AHU. It will ideally have a closet of its own in a main corridor where the ducts can easily branch towards the rooms it needs to.

Where Is the Air Handler Located?

Air handlers are generally located in the basement, attic, garage, or a dedicated closet. They sometimes have a shape similar to that of a gas furnace.

Why is air handler in attic?

An air handler is often placed in the attic to save space in living areas and provide better air distribution throughout the home. It helps maximize efficiency by keeping the equipment out of sight while serving the whole house.

What does a air handler look like?

An air handler typically looks like a large metal box, often rectangular, with various vents, ducts, and electrical components attached. Inside, it houses a blower, heating or cooling elements, and filters. The exterior is usually plain and functional, designed to blend into utility spaces like attics or basements.

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