What is an air handler's primary role in an HVAC system?

The primary role of an air handler in an HVAC system is indeed to circulate and condition the air within the home. An air handler is designed to work in coordination with other components of the system, such as the furnace or air conditioning unit. It pulls air from the home, conditions it through heating or cooling coils, and then distributes the conditioned air back into the living spaces through ductwork.

Conditioning the air involves regulating temperature and humidity levels for optimal comfort. This makes the air handler a crucial element in maintaining comfortable living conditions, as it ensures that the air distributed throughout the home is not only at the desired temperature but also has appropriate humidity levels.

While air handlers may incorporate filtration systems to help reduce pollutants, their essential function is more comprehensive than just filtering air. Similarly, the regulation of water supply or electricity generation are not roles that air handlers fulfill; these tasks are typically managed by separate components within the HVAC system. Thus, the focus of the air handler is centered around air circulation and conditioning, which is fundamental to effective HVAC operation.