When deciding on the right HVAC system for your home, it’s essential to understand the differences between an air handler and a furnace, as each system operates differently and serves unique purposes. Choosing the correct system can impact your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term maintenance costs. 

Greg’s Air Solutions team specializes in helping homeowners evaluate their specific needs, guiding them through the selection, installation, and maintenance of the ideal HVAC system. Whether you need a complete replacement, a repair, or routine maintenance, our expert technicians ensure your system runs efficiently and reliably.

At Greg’s Air Solutions, we understand that each home is unique. That’s why we provide personalized consultations to determine whether a furnace, an air handler, or a combination of both will meet your household’s comfort and efficiency needs. Our team can evaluate your current system, identify inefficiencies, and recommend solutions that save energy and enhance performance. 

Key Differences: Air Handler vs. Furnace

Feature Air Handler Furnace
Primary Function Moves heated or cooled air throughout your home using ductwork. Generates heat using gas, oil, or electricity, then distributes it.
Heat Source Does not produce heat on its own; it works with a heat pump or AC unit. Creates heat internally using burners, heat exchangers, or electric elements.
Fuel Source Electricity powers the blower and heat pump. Natural gas, propane, oil, or electricity.
AC Capability Contains evaporator coils for air conditioning when paired with a heat pump. Needs a separate AC unit and an indoor coil for cooling.
Climate Suitability Best for mild or moderate climates. Ideal for cold climates with heavy winter heating needs.
Operating Principle Transfers heat with refrigerant coils in a heat pump or AC system. Burns fuel to produce heat and uses a blower to circulate warm air.

 

How Greg’s Air Solutions Can Help

At Greg’s Air Solutions, we provide complete solutions for both air handlers and furnaces:

Air Handler Services

  • Installation & Replacement: We ensure your air handler works perfectly with your heat pump or AC system.
  • Repairs & Maintenance: From noisy blowers to coil issues, our technicians fix problems quickly.

A large air conditioner and a fan placed on the grass, showcasing an air handler setup in an outdoor environment.

  • Efficiency Optimization: We clean and tune your system to improve airflow and reduce energy costs.

Furnace Services

  • Furnace Repair & Maintenance: We fix ignition problems, burners, and heat exchangers to keep your home warm.
  • New Furnace Installation: We help select the right furnace based on your home size, climate, and energy needs.
  • Dual-Fuel Solutions: Combine a furnace with an air handler for energy-efficient heating during all seasons.

Common Problems and Greg’s Solutions

Weak Airflow

  • Air Handler Fix: Clean and service the blower motor and make any needed duct adjustments.
  • Furnace Fix: Inspect the blower and duct system, then repair or replace any faulty parts.

Strange Noises

  • Air Handler Fix: Lubricate moving components and tighten anything that has come loose.
  • Furnace Fix: Replace worn burners or fan components to stop rattling or vibration.

Heating Problems

  • Air Handler Fix: Inspect heat pump coils and check all electrical connections.
  • Furnace Fix: Repair issues with the burners, heat exchanger, or ignition system.

AC Not Cooling

  • Air Handler Fix: Clean the evaporator coils and verify proper refrigerant levels.

A man in overalls repairs a water heater, focusing on the air handler component.

  • Furnace Fix: Make sure the AC unit is correctly paired with the system and that airflow through the ducts is adequate.

FAQs 

1. Which is better, an air handler or a furnace?

It depends on your climate. Air handlers are great for moderate temperatures, while furnaces are better for very cold areas. Our experts can help determine the right system for your home.

2. Can an air handler provide heating?

Yes, when paired with a heat pump, an air handler can deliver warm air. For extremely cold climates, a furnace provides more consistent heating.

3. How often should I service my air handler or furnace?

We recommend annual maintenance to keep your system efficient and prevent costly repairs. Greg’s Air Solutions offers full-year service plans.

4. Can I replace my furnace with an air handler?

Yes, if your home uses a heat pump and moderate heating is sufficient. Our team can evaluate and safely install the best solution.