Furnace and Air Handler Configurations
You likely have in your home one of two basic air delivery systems, either one which will be necessary to operate a central air conditioner: a furnace or an air handler. A furnace is comprised of a heating device, gas or electric, as well as an air circulating fan. An air handler looks very much like a furnace, but has only a circulating fan without heating capability. Your furnace or air handler is configured one of two ways: up-flow/down-flow, or horizontal-flow. Looking at your unit will tell you which one you have. If your furnace/ air handler is vertically aligned, then it is up-flow or down-flow. If it is horizontally aligned, it is horizontal-flow. Depending on which configuration you have will determine which one of the two types of corresponding evaporator coils you will need for your home’s particular air conditioning system.