Must-Know: Is Your Air Handler Level? Misalignment Could Be Costing You Big!

An air handler is a crucial component of any HVAC system, responsible for circulating conditioned air throughout your home. Ensuring that your air handler is level is essential for ensuring its optimal performance, longevity, and energy efficiency.

Why Leveling Matters

When an air handler is not level, it can lead to several issues:

• Uneven Air Distribution: An unlevel air handler cannot effectively distribute air, resulting in uneven heating or cooling in different parts of your home.
• Increased Noise and Vibration: An unlevel air handler can cause vibrations and noise that can be disruptive and uncomfortable.
• Premature Wear and Tear: Uneven weight distribution on an unlevel air handler can cause premature wear and tear on its components, leading to costly repairs.
• Reduced Energy Efficiency: An unlevel air handler can use more energy to achieve the same level of comfort, increasing your utility bills.

How to Level an Air Handler

Leveling an air handler is a relatively straightforward process:

1. Turn Off Power: Safety first! Turn off the power to the air handler at the breaker or fuse box.
2. Place Level: Place a level on top of the air handler.
3. Adjust Legs: Most air handlers have adjustable legs. Use a wrench or screwdriver to adjust the legs until the air handler is level in both directions.
4. Check Level: Re-check the level to ensure it is still level after adjustments.
5. Tighten Bolts: Once the air handler is level, tighten the bolts on the legs to secure it in place.

When to Level an Air Handler

It is generally recommended to level an air handler:

• During Installation: When installing a new air handler, leveling is crucial to ensure proper operation from the start.
• After Maintenance: If you have recently performed maintenance on your air handler, such as cleaning or replacing components, it is a good idea to re-level it.
• If You Notice Issues: If you notice any of the issues mentioned earlier, such as uneven air distribution or increased noise, leveling your air handler may resolve the problem.

Benefits of Leveling an Air Handler

Leveling your air handler offers numerous benefits:

• Improved Air Distribution: A level air handler ensures even distribution of conditioned air throughout your home.
• Reduced Noise and Vibration: A level air handler operates more smoothly, reducing noise and vibration.
• Extended Lifespan: Leveling reduces wear and tear, extending the lifespan of your air handler.
• Increased Energy Efficiency: A level air handler operates more efficiently, saving you money on utility bills.

Takeaways: The Value of Leveling

Ensuring that your air handler is level is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your HVAC system‘s optimal performance. By avoiding costly repairs, improving comfort, and saving energy, leveling your air handler is an investment that will pay off in the long run. Don’t neglect this essential maintenance task and enjoy the benefits of a well-leveled air handler for years to come.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I level my air handler?
A: It is recommended to level your air handler during installation, after maintenance, and if you notice any issues.

Q: Can I level an air handler myself?
A: Yes, leveling an air handler is a relatively straightforward process that can be done by a homeowner with basic tools and skills.

Q: What happens if my air handler is not level?
A: An unlevel air handler can lead to uneven air distribution, increased noise and vibration, premature wear and tear, and reduced energy efficiency.

Q: How can I tell if my air handler is not level?
A: Signs of an unlevel air handler include uneven air distribution, increased noise and vibration, and reduced energy efficiency.

Q: What tools do I need to level an air handler?
A: You will need a level, a wrench or screwdriver, and possibly a shim or two.