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Understanding the Different Types of Electric Furnaces & Air Handlers
Electric furnaces, air handlers, and modular blowers are essential components of many modern heating and cooling systems. These units, sometimes referred to as fan coils, provide forced air heating and cooling for homes that do not have access to natural gas or propane or for homeowners looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. Unlike traditional gas furnaces, which generate heat through combustion, electric heating systems use either electric resistance elements or hydronic heating to warm the air before distributing it throughout the home.
Many air handlers and electric furnaces also have built-in compatibility with heat pumps, allowing them to provide both heating and cooling. By leveraging a heat pump and a hydronic coil, homeowners can create a hydronic forced-air system, which efficiently heats the home by circulating hot water from a boiler through the air handler. This hybrid approach offers a highly efficient and comfortable heating solution for those who prefer hydronic heating over traditional electric resistance elements.
Types of Electric Furnaces, Air Handlers, and Modular Blowers
Electric furnaces, air handlers, and modular blowers come in a variety of configurations, each designed to meet specific home heating and cooling needs. They are available in:
✅ Single-Speed Models: These units operate at one fixed blower speed, meaning they turn on and off at full capacity. While they are the most affordable option, they provide less precise temperature control and are less efficient compared to variable-speed models.
✅ Multi-Speed Models: These units operate at preset speeds, allowing them to adjust airflow more effectively than single-speed models. They offer better efficiency and comfort, reducing temperature fluctuations while still being cost-effective.
✅ Variable-Speed Models: The most advanced option, variable-speed units adjust their blower speed in real time based on heating and cooling demands. These systems provide consistent temperatures, improved energy efficiency, and better humidity control, making them ideal for homes where comfort and energy savings are a priority.
In addition to different speed options, these systems come with various heat pump and electric heating element capabilities:
Compatible with Heat Pumps: Air handlers and modular blowers are designed to work with heat pumps ranging from 1.5 tons to 5 tons, making them an excellent solution for both heating and cooling in mild to moderate climates.
✅ Compatible with Heat Pumps: Air handlers and modular blowers are designed to work with heat pumps ranging from 1.5 tons to 5 tons, making them an excellent solution for both heating and cooling in mild to moderate climates.
✅ Electric Heating Elements: These systems can be equipped with electric heating elements ranging from 3kW to 25kW, allowing homeowners to select the right level of heating output for their specific needs. Larger heating elements are typically required for colder climates or larger homes that need more powerful heating capabilities.
How Do Electric Furnaces & Air Handlers Work?
Electric furnaces, air handlers, and modular blowers function by drawing in air, heating or cooling it, and distributing it through ductwork. Depending on the system type, heating can be achieved in multiple ways:
✅ Electric Resistance Heating: Air passes over electric heating elements (similar to an electric space heater but on a larger scale), warming it before being circulated throughout the home.
✅ Heat Pump Integration: The air handler works in conjunction with a heat pump, transferring heat from the outdoor air into the home during the winter and reversing the process to provide cooling in the summer.
✅ Hydronic Heating Coils: In a hydronic forced-air system, an air handler is equipped with a hydronic coil that circulates hot water from a boiler to heat the air. This method combines the efficiency of boiler-based heating with the convenience of forced-air distribution, providing even, comfortable warmth without relying on electric resistance elements.
Are Electric Furnaces & Air Handlers Worth It?
Deciding whether an electric furnace, air handler, or modular blower is the right choice depends on several factors, including energy costs, fuel availability, and climate conditions. Here’s what homeowners should consider:
✅ Best for Homes Without Natural Gas or Propane: If natural gas or propane is not available, electric heating systems provide an effective alternative.
✅ A Greener, More Sustainable Option: When paired with a heat pump, electric furnaces and air handlers become highly energy-efficient, reducing the home’s carbon footprint while lowering heating and cooling costs.
✅ Safer & Lower Maintenance: Unlike gas furnaces, electric heating systems don’t produce carbon monoxide or require venting, making them a safer and lower-maintenance option.
✅ More Efficient When Paired with a Heat Pump: A standard electric resistance furnace alone can be costly to run, but when combined with a heat pump, it provides substantial energy savings over traditional resistance heating.
❌ Higher Electricity Costs in Some Areas: If electricity rates are high in your region and you rely solely on electric resistance heating, your energy bills may be higher compared to homes using gas or propane furnaces.
Why Choose Air Tech for Your Electric Furnace or Air Handler Installation?
Whether you’re looking to transition to a greener home or electric is your only fuel source, Air Tech provides expert installation and service to ensure you get the most efficient and properly sized system for your needs. Here’s why homeowners trust us:
✅ We Perform Heat Loss & Heat Gain Calculations: Before recommending a system, we complete a detailed heat loss and heat gain calculation, ensuring your electric furnace or air handler is properly sized for optimal efficiency and comfort.
✅ TECA-Certified in Airflow & Duct Sizing: Our technicians are certified by TECA (Thermal Environmental Comfort Association) in air movement and duct system design, ensuring your system has proper airflow for even heating and cooling.
✅ We Install & Configure Systems for Heat Pump Integration: Whether you need a fully electric heating system or want to combine an air handler with a heat pump, we have the expertise to install and configure the perfect hybrid system for maximum efficiency.
✅ HRAI-Certified & Industry-Compliant: As an HRAI member, we adhere to the highest industry standards, ensuring all installations meet safety, efficiency, and performance guidelines.
✅ We Offer Hydronic Forced-Air Solutions: Looking for a hydronic heating option? We can install an air handler with a hydronic coil, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of boiler-based heating with forced-air distribution.
✅ Multiple Electric Heating Options Available: Whether you need a multi-speed, variable-speed, or single-speed system, we’ll help you choose the best air handler or modular blower with the right electric heating element (3kW to 25kW) for your home.
Top-Tier Equipment for Maximum Efficiency & Rebates
At Air Tech, we understand that investing in a new heating or cooling system is a big decision. That’s why we specialize in installing only the best, top-tier brands that deliver industry-leading performance, energy efficiency, and reliability. Our selection of AHRI-recommended systems ensures that customers receive high-quality equipment that meets the highest industry standards and is often rebate-compliant with BC Hydro and Better Homes BC programs.
We offer a broad range of premium electric furnaces, air handlers, and heat pump-compatible systems from:
✅ Lennox: Cutting-edge high-efficiency air handlers and electric furnaces designed for maximum comfort and energy savings.
✅ Amana: Known for long-lasting durability and excellent warranty coverage, Amana’s electric heating systems are built for performance.
✅ Mitsubishi: A global leader in heat pump technology, offering ultra-efficient heating and cooling solutions that excel in various climates.
✅ Daikin: Advanced air handlers and heat pumps featuring innovative climate control and energy-saving capabilities.
✅ Hi-Velocity Systems: Specializing in compact, high-performance air handlers and hydronic forced-air solutions, perfect for space-saving applications.
By choosing Air Tech, customers gain access to the best heating and cooling solutions available, ensuring their home is equipped with high-efficiency, rebate-eligible systems that lower energy costs while providing superior comfort.
