Image: A happy family enjoying the benefits of a Carrier air handler.
Introduction
Are you seeking the key to superior home comfort? Look no further than a top-notch air handler by Carrier. In this guide, we delve into the details of Carrier air handlers, including their average cost, model comparisons, and more. Discover how these durable and reliable units can enhance your indoor air quality and elevate your overall comfort.
Carrier Fan Coil Units vs. Air Handlers
An air handler plays a crucial role in a split heating or cooling system. Its primary function is to facilitate even and consistent airflow throughout your home. Carrier refers to their air handlers as "fan coil units," but these terms are interchangeable and refer to the same HVAC component.
A Carrier air handler consists of four main parts: a blower motor, a fan, a filter, and an indoor coil. To gain a more detailed understanding of these components and how they work, we recommend checking out our comprehensive guide on the best air handlers of 2022.
Carrier air handlers are typically installed indoors, similar to many other air handlers. One notable advantage is that many Carrier units are compatible with non-Carrier outdoor units. Therefore, if you're satisfied with your current outdoor unit, Carrier could be an excellent choice for your air handler. Just ensure that your total system is rated by AHRI (Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute) for warranty coverage.
What to Consider Before Purchasing a Carrier Air Handler
Before making a buying decision, there are several crucial factors to consider when selecting a Carrier air handler.
ArmorTech™ Coil Protection
Carrier offers their proprietary ArmorTech™ coating which provides corrosion protection to the inner coil. This coating acts as a strong defense against moisture, mold, and mildew, potentially saving you money on future parts replacements. You can add ArmorTech™ to any Carrier air handler for enhanced coil durability.
Warranty
All Carrier air handlers come with a standard 5-year limited parts warranty. However, if you register your air handler online within 90 days of purchase, you'll receive an extended warranty of 10 years for parts. It's important to note that labor costs are not covered by the warranty.
Blower Motor Speeds
Carrier air handlers are equipped with blower motors that offer at least two speeds. Multi-speed motors allow for operation below 100% capacity, resulting in energy savings. Additionally, Carrier offers air handlers with variable-speed blower motors, which are even more energy-efficient, albeit at a higher cost.
Puron® Refrigerant
Carrier uses their proprietary brand of R-410 refrigerant called Puron®. What sets Puron® apart is its chlorine-free composition, which prevents ozone depletion. By opting for a Carrier air handler, you're contributing to a more environmentally friendly heating and cooling system.
Air Handler Sizes
Carrier air handlers are available in various sizes, typically measured by power output in capacity or tons. The sizing can be determined based on British Thermal Units (BTU) or tons. For example, 12,000 BTU/hour is equivalent to 1 ton of output. Carrier air handlers range from 1.5 to 5 tons of output.
To determine the appropriate size for your air handler, consult with a local Carrier dealer. Keep in mind that the air handler's capacity must match the size of your outdoor unit, while the overall system size should be determined by a load calculation specific to your home.
Carrier Air Handlers: Product Lineup and Details
Carrier categorizes their air handler models into three price and performance tiers: Comfort, Performance, and Infinity. Each tier consists of two air handler models, providing a total of six options for single-family homes. The prices mentioned here refer to a three-ton air handler. Installation costs can range from $1,200 to $2,000, depending on factors such as location, climate zone, and unit size.
Comfort Line - FB4C
The FB4C is one of Carrier's basic and most affordable air handlers. While it may lack high-tech features, it compensates with durability and a high-quality build. One outstanding feature is the fully insulated cabinet, which prevents heat from escaping and reduces noise levels. The multi-speed blower motor contributes to energy savings, and the choice between an aluminum or copper evaporator coil allows for more budget flexibility.
Comfort Line - FX4D
The FX4D is the second air handler model offered in the Comfort line. It shares similar features with the FB4C, including the fully insulated cabinet and multi-speed blower motor. The main difference lies in the choice of coils, with the FX4D utilizing a copper coil instead of aluminum. This model also provides reduced noise levels and an energy-efficient performance.
Performance Line - FV4C
The FV4C is one of Carrier's two Performance air handlers, offering notable upgrades from the Comfort line. One standout feature is the availability of washable filters, allowing for easy maintenance and cost savings. The FV4C also features the Ideal Humidity System, which senses indoor moisture levels and adjusts fan and compressor settings accordingly. With a variable-speed blower motor, this model ensures better humidity control and consistent air temperatures.
Performance Line - FZ4A
The FZ4A shares common features with the FV4C, including washable filters and the Ideal Humidity Sensing system. However, it has a two-speed blower motor rather than a variable-speed motor. While both Performance models are similar in price, the FV4C offers better energy efficiency and temperature control.
Infinity Line - FE4A
The FE4A is one of Carrier's premium air handlers, offering variable-speed blower motors for enhanced energy efficiency. It stands out for its flexibility, allowing for both horizontal and vertical placement. Additionally, you can customize the direction of airflow, providing an extra level of comfort. The FE4A boasts compatibility with other Carrier products, such as air purifiers and humidifiers, and can be controlled using a Carrier smart thermostat.
Infinity Line - FE5
The FE5 is the second model in Carrier's Infinity series, offering similar features to the FE4A, including variable-speed blower motors and compatibility with other Carrier products. The main distinction is its limited placement options, as it is only compatible with upflow/downflow orientations.
Carrier Comfort vs. Performance vs. Infinity Air Handlers
As you transition from the "Comfort" to the "Performance" and "Infinity" tiers, the features and prices increase accordingly. Below, we outline the unique features of each tier while also highlighting the standard features across all Carrier air handlers.
All Carrier Air Handlers
Regardless of the tier, all Carrier air handlers come with the following standard features:
- ArmorTech™ coil protection
- Puron refrigerant
- 5-year parts warranty (10 years if registered)
- Fully insulated cabinet
- Multi-speed blower motors
Performance Air Handlers
The Performance tier introduces functional improvements, notably in humidity control, with the introduction of Ideal Humidity Sensing technology and variable-speed blower motors.
Infinity Air Handlers
The Infinity series represents the premium tier, compatible with communicating thermostats. It features variable-speed, communicating blower motors and compatibility with the Infinity System, allowing for comprehensive control and synchronization with other Carrier products.
Image: A happy family enjoying the benefits of a Carrier air handler.
Carrier Air Handlers vs. Competitors
Carrier air handlers are renowned for their attention to detail, quality materials, and reliability at each price tier. However, it's essential to consider how they compare to other brands in the market.
Pros
- Carrier air handlers offer multi-speed blower motors even in their value tier.
- Multiple models are available in each price tier, allowing for greater customization.
- Performance and Infinity lines offer the Ideal Humidity System, enhancing comfort at higher temperatures.
Cons
- The price difference between the Infinity and Performance lines may not be justifiable if you are satisfied with your outdoor unit or do not require a communicating thermostat.
- Finding the right size air filter from third-party brands can be challenging.
- Carrier's warranty is shorter and more limited compared to some competitors.
Carrier Air Handlers vs. Lennox
While both Carrier and Lennox offer excellent air handlers, Carrier tends to be more budget-friendly. Opting for a Lennox air handler may require a slightly higher investment, ranging from a few hundred to a thousand dollars more. In terms of warranties, both brands are comparable, except Lennox's premium line offers a 10-year parts insurance guarantee without the need for registration. Lennox stands out for its energy efficiency, but both brands provide reliable and high-quality air handlers.
Carrier Air Handlers vs. Trane
Carrier and Trane are reputable brands known for their high-quality air handlers. When it comes to unit and installation costs, the prices of both brands are comparable, with Trane being slightly more expensive. The primary difference lies in the coil materials used. Carrier employs a combination of copper and aluminum coils, while Trane utilizes solely aluminum.
Carrier Air Handlers vs. Goodman
Carrier is considered a premium brand, while Goodman is Daikin's value brand. Although Goodman offers quality air handlers at an affordable price, they are generally less energy-efficient and reliable compared to Carrier models. While you may save money upfront with a Goodman air handler, you could end up spending more on repairs and replacement parts in the long run. Therefore, if you're undecided between the two, we recommend choosing Carrier for its superior quality and long-term cost savings.
Conclusion
The air handler serves as the heart of your HVAC system, and investing in a high-quality Carrier air handler can significantly enhance your home's comfort and energy efficiency. With a range of models available in various price tiers, there's a perfect Carrier air handler to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking advanced features, cost savings, or environmental friendliness, Carrier air handlers deliver exceptional performance and reliability. Choose Carrier and experience a new level of home comfort today.
