What Is the AC Unit in the Attic Called: A Comprehensive Guide

ByArnould Eric Updated

What Is the AC Unit in the Attic Called?

The AC unit in the attic is typically called an attic air conditioner or attic AC unit.

Key Points:

  • AC unit in the attic is commonly referred to as an attic air conditioner or attic AC unit
  • Typically located in the attic, this unit is responsible for cooling the home
  • It is specifically designed to be installed in the attic space
  • Attic AC units help to preserve indoor aesthetics as they are concealed from view
  • These units provide efficient cooling while minimizing noise levels inside the home
  • Attic air conditioners are an effective alternative to traditional outdoor condenser units

Did You Know?

1. The AC unit in the attic is known as an “air handler,” responsible for circulating and conditioning the air throughout your home.

2. Did you know that an air handler in the attic can also be used to distribute heated air during the winter months? It can be equipped with a heat pump or electric heating elements to provide warmth when needed.

3. Some modern air handlers come with built-in variable-speed motors, allowing them to adjust their speed according to the desired temperature. This not only provides greater comfort but also helps to save energy and reduce noise levels.

4. A lesser-known fact is that air handlers can also incorporate air filtration systems, helping to improve indoor air quality by capturing and removing contaminants such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.

5. In certain regions with high humidity, air handlers can be equipped with a device called a condensate drain pan. This pan collects the condensed moisture from the cooling process and drains it out of your home, preventing any potential water damage in the attic.

Understanding Attic AC Units

AC units in the attic are a common feature in many households, especially in warmer climates. These units play a crucial role in regulating the temperature and ensuring optimum comfort indoors. The attic, being the highest point in the house, provides an ideal location for the installation of AC units as it allows for efficient distribution of cool air throughout the home.

Attic AC units are designed to cool the entire house by channeling cold air through a series of ducts connected to the vents in each room. They work in conjunction with the main AC system, which is typically located outside the house. The attic unit acts as an intermediary, taking in warm air from the house, cooling it down with the help of a refrigerant, and then pumping it back into the rooms as cool air.

  • Attic AC units are common in warmer climates
  • They regulate indoor temperature and provide comfort
  • Attics provide an ideal location for installation
  • Efficiently distribute cool air throughout the home
  • Channel cold air through ducts connected to room vents
  • Serve as intermediaries between the main AC system and rooms
  • Cool warm air using a refrigerant

“Attic AC units are essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature in homes, particularly in warmer climates.”

The Function And Purpose Of Attic AC Units

The primary function of attic AC units is to regulate the temperature and humidity levels in a home. They extract warm air from the living spaces, passing it over coils filled with refrigerant. This process cools the air, and the resulting cool air is then distributed throughout the house through air ducts and vents.

Related Post:  Why Is My AC Blowing Smoke? Common Causes and Best Solutions

Attic AC units serve a vital purpose in maintaining a comfortable environment within the home. They ensure that rooms on higher floors or farther away from the main AC system receive adequate cooling. By positioning the AC unit in the attic, it eliminates the need for multiple outdoor units and simplifies the installation process.

Another important purpose of attic AC units is to reduce noise levels inside the house. Since the unit is located away from living spaces, any operational noise is minimized, ensuring a more peaceful and uninterrupted environment.

  • Attic AC units regulate temperature and humidity levels in a home
  • They extract warm air and cool it through coils filled with refrigerant
  • The resulting cool air is distributed through air ducts and vents
  • Attic AC units ensure adequate cooling for rooms on higher floors or farther away from the main AC system
  • Positioning the AC unit in the attic eliminates the need for multiple outdoor units and simplifies installation
  • Attic AC units reduce noise levels in the house by being located away from living spaces

Naming The AC Unit In The Attic

The AC unit located in the attic is commonly known as the “attic unit” or “attic air conditioner.” These terms are used interchangeably and are based on its positioning within the home. Some homeowners might also refer to it as the “interior AC unit” or the “indoor unit,” but these terms are broader and may encompass other types of indoor AC units as well.

The specific naming convention can vary depending on regional and individual preferences. Despite the chosen name, the primary function and purpose of the AC unit in the attic remains consistent – to efficiently and effectively cool the entire house.

Related Post:  How to Reset Frigidaire Air Conditioner and Improve Efficiency

Types Of AC Units Commonly Installed In Attics

There are several types of AC units commonly installed in attics, each with its own advantages and considerations. The most common types include:

  • Split Systems: These consist of two parts – an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor air handler. The air handler, which contains the evaporator coil and blower, is typically installed in the attic. Split systems are known for their high efficiency and quiet operation.

  • Packaged Units: In these systems, all components, including the evaporator coil, condenser, and compressor, are housed in a single unit. Packaged units are often installed on rooftops or in attics, providing a compact solution for homes with limited space.

  • Ductless Mini-Split Systems: These systems do not require ductwork and consist of an outdoor condenser unit and one or more indoor air handlers. The air handlers are typically mounted on walls or ceilings in various rooms, including the attic. Ductless mini-split systems offer flexibility in zoning and energy efficiency.

It’s important to consult with an HVAC professional to determine which type of AC unit is best suited for your attic and meets your specific cooling needs.

  • Installing an AC unit in your attic can provide efficient and convenient cooling for your home.
  • Split systems offer high efficiency and quiet operation but require the installation of ductwork.
  • Packaged units provide a compact solution, ideal for homes with limited space.
  • Ductless mini-split systems eliminate the need for ductwork and offer zoning flexibility.
  • Consult with an HVAC professional to determine the best type of AC unit for your attic and specific cooling needs.

Installation And Maintenance Tips For Attic AC Units

Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for the optimal performance and longevity of attic AC units. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Proper Insulation: Ensure that your attic is adequately insulated to prevent heat gain and maintain cooler air temperatures. Proper insulation will help the AC unit run more efficiently and reduce energy consumption.

  • Regular Filter Cleaning: Clean or replace the air filters regularly to maintain proper airflow and prevent dust and debris from entering the system. Clogged filters can restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.

  • Duct Sealing: Inspect the ductwork in the attic for any leaks and seal them properly. Leaky ducts can cause air to escape, leading to decreased cooling performance and energy loss.

  • Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance appointments with a licensed HVAC technician to inspect and tune up your attic AC unit. They will check for any potential issues, clean the coils, and ensure that all components are functioning properly.

Related Post:  How Much Water Should Drain From Air Conditioner? Understanding Optimal Drainage Levels for Efficient Cooling

By following these installation and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your attic AC unit operates efficiently, providing consistent cooling for your entire home.

Check this out:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AC unit inside attic called?

The AC unit inside the attic is commonly known as the air handler. This crucial component handles the circulation and distribution of air within a household. Resembling the shape of a gas furnace, the air handler is responsible for delivering warm or cool air to every corner of your home. Whether it’s a hot summer day or a chilly winter evening, the air handler ensures that your indoor environment remains comfortable and well-balanced.

Do they put AC units in the attic?

In addition to space-saving benefits, installing AC units in the attic also offers advantages in terms of noise reduction and aesthetics. By keeping the HVAC system out of sight, homeowners can enjoy a cleaner and more organized living space. Furthermore, placing the unit in the attic helps to minimize noise pollution, as the sound is insulated by the layers of insulation and the ceiling. With these benefits, homeowners can maintain a comfortable indoor environment without compromising on space or aesthetics.

What is the AC part on the roof called?

The AC part on the roof of a building is commonly known as a rooftop package unit. This unit combines both the condenser and air handler into a single system. Unlike the split air conditioning system where the condenser is located outside and the air handler/furnace is inside, the rooftop package unit simplifies the installation process by consolidating these components into one unit that can be conveniently placed on the roof. This design is especially practical for commercial buildings and larger residential spaces where space is a concern.

What are the main components of an AC unit in the attic called?

The main components of an AC unit in the attic are the evaporator coil, condenser unit, and the air handler. The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air, allowing the cool air to be circulated back into the house. The condenser unit is located outside the house and aids in transferring heat from the refrigerant to the outside air. Finally, the air handler is the part of the AC system that distributes the cooled air throughout the home via ductwork. These three components work together to effectively cool the indoor space.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4