HVAC Basics: Heat Pump + Air Handler Matched Systems

By Anne Fonda with expert review by Chelsea Hudson, Product Manager, Heat Pumps

How do heat pump & air handler systems work?

When an outdoor heat pump is paired with an indoor air handler, the all-electric HVAC system works to both heat and cool your home. In the warmer months, it acts like an air conditioner, while in the colder months, it provides electric heat. The air handler may be equipped with electric resistance heat strips to act as auxiliary heat in cold snaps.

A heat pump and air handler matched system.

WHAT DOES A HEAT PUMP DO?

Heat pumps use a heat exchange process to remove heat from the air to heat or cool your home

Despite its name, a heat pump can do more than just heat your home — it can also cool it. A heat pump is fueled by electricity and works by simply moving heat from one place to another. In the summer, your heat pump moves heat from inside, out. In the winter, unlike a furnace, an electric heat pump doesn’t burn fossil fuels to warm your home. Instead, it efficiently extracts heat from the outdoor air (even in colder weather) and transfers it inside.

WHAT DOES AN AIR HANDLER DO?

Air handlers move air throughout your home to achieve your ideal temperature

Air handlers circulate cold or hot air (depending on the season) throughout your home. American Standard air handlers are available with single-stage, constant-torque (multiple-speed), or variable-speed fan motors. Our variable-speed models are known for their humidity control, variable airflow capacity, and soft starts, but the air handler best for you depends largely on your chosen heat pump

Where does a heat pump + air handler system work best?

“A heat pump paired with an air handler is a great fit for areas with mild to moderate winters. If your temperatures rarely dip below freezing, this all-electric setup can keep your home comfortable year-round without the need for a backup fossil fuel system. It’s an efficient, simple solution for homeowners looking to go all electric while still getting reliable heating and cooling.”

- Chelsea Hudson, Product Manager, Heat Pumps

How much does it cost to buy and install a heat pump + air handler system?

Your heat pump system installation cost will vary depending on the SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings of the heat pump, whether it’s single-stage, multi-speed, or variable speed, the capacity, the complexity of the installation, and more.

The cost of the air handler will depend on whether it’s single-stage, constant torque, or variable speed. While you can see our Pricing Guide for some basic price ranges, work with your local American Standard dealer for accurate system sizing, pricing, and installation.

Anne Fonda, Content Writer

A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.

She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.

When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.