What are AHU’s (Air Handling Units) and What are They Used For?

AHU is the abbreviated term for Air Handling Unit. An air handling unit is a machine that generally includes a fan, heat exchangers and more than likely filters. Simply explained, the fan is used to displace (draw) the air through the unit, discharging it into the work space.

Heat exchangers and filters condition the air as desired.

You’ve heard of an air conditioning or cooling system, but what function does and air handling unit play in these fields?

This blog will discuss what an AHU is and what the primary benefits of AHU hire are. Air conditioning systems are deemed a necessity in locations that get extremely hot and humid. Importantly, air handling often performs a critical role within the air conditioning process.

Unlike an air conditioner, an air handling unit doesn’t necessarily heat or cool air; but circulates and distributes air. The unit controls the way that already present air moves around a building without necessarily changing its temperature. Air handling units are typically mounted on the roof of a building or indoors, and utilising ducting, ensure that pre-existing air is effectively distributed throughout any building.

The differences between an air conditioner and an air handling unit are subtle, so it can be tricky to differentiate the two units. Although the differences are subtle, air handlers and air conditioners perform two completely different functions and don’t serve the same purposes. There are some primary differences between an air handler and an air conditioner:

• An air conditioner generally circulates in a room through a filter and heat exchanger which either heats or cools it “conditioning the air”
• An air handling unit controls the movement and distribution of pre-existing air in a building. Air handlers differ in the respect that their primary function is the movement of air. Hence the main purpose is ventilation. Conditioning of the air can be added as an additional function, which generally requires the addition of heat exchangers and outside sources of heating and cooling.

Chilled logistics provide a handful of benefits that not many people are aware of. Without Cold Chain logistics, it would be unlikely that the perishables we buy are fresh and fit for consumption! Critically, with higher waste comes higher costs for the consumer and/ or products are preserved in a different way with possible detrimental effects on nutrient levels. Or possibly, the range of fresh products available would be greatly reduced.

Below are some AHU’s being applied to different applications. Please find a case study here for AHU’s that have been used to ventilate and heat a swimming pool.

There are numerous benefits of AHU hire, and you’ll find that they’re often installed in corporate buildings where people likely spend a lot of time. Since air handling units do an excellent job of moving air around, they’ll work even better in conjunction with an air conditioner. Accordingly, what are AHU’s good at.

• Hire AHUs often contain an air filter. In locations where the air quality isn’t the best and pollution is high, air handling units can filter the air, which improves the health and comfort of those in the building.
• Rental Air handling units are energy-efficient. You’ll often find that air conditioners only cool or heat the area where the AC is. Having an air handler allows the cooled or heated air to circulate and distribute all around the building or wider space. Ductwork is often utilised.
• Temporary AHUs boost IAQ. Good indoor air quality is essential in places where you spend a lot of time. Since air handling units contain filters, fans and introduces fresh air, it ensures that contaminated or polluted air isn’t being redistributed.
• Cost-effective. Renting an air handling unit truly gives you bang for your buck, as it does more than just distribute air. Its efficiency and long-term benefits (such as improved air quality) ensure you’re getting value for your investment.
• There’s no commitment if you hire first. If it’ll be your first time using an air handling unit, it’s a great idea to hire first to get a feel for the benefits. That way, you can test the waters and determine if it works for you before buying.

• Reduces humidity. In areas where it gets incredibly hot and humid, air conditioners are a lifesaver. Issues like bacteria and fungus build-up are linked to moisture caused by humidity, air conditioners combat this.
• Prevents heat stroke. An overheated or humid environment poses a health risk for humans and pets alike. Cool air alongside sufficient hydration can eliminate the risk of suffering heat stroke.
• Improved quality of sleep. Being able to sleep in an environment where you’re not sweating bullets and tossing and turning allows you to sleep peacefully and without heat-induced interruptions!
• You won’t have to open all your windows. By not having all your windows open, you can reduce the likelihood (and annoyance) of factors like external noise and insects.
• Air conditioners are convenient. Having a cooling system workplace is the most convenient way to ensure your comfort and health. You can adjust the temperature to how you like it!

It can be confusing to differentiate between an AHU and an air conditioner. However, with what are AHU’s key functions you can be confident that you won’t regret installing one, and your workforce will thank you!

ACR has a range of equipment available for immediate installation. With great flexible rates and a can do attitude there’s one obvious question “what are AHU’s going to do for your business”

Please get in touch now for friendly help and advice.