Lennox Air Handlers for Chicago-Area Homes
As a Lennox Premier Dealer based in Streamwood, we install Lennox air handlers matched to your heat pump or air conditioner, with blower performance, coil matching and ductwork checked so the system moves the air it was designed to.
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What Does an Air Handler Do?
An air handler is the indoor section of many central air conditioning and heat pump systems. It contains the blower and typically houses the indoor coil, moving heated or cooled air through the supply ducts and drawing air back through the return system.
Although it may receive less attention than the outdoor equipment, the air handler has a major effect on airflow, sound, filtration, humidity removal and how evenly the home is conditioned.
Common Air Handler Options
- Fixed-Speed Air HandlersA fixed-speed blower operates at a set airflow during a call for heating or cooling. It offers a straightforward approach when matched correctly to the system and ductwork.
- Multi-Speed Air HandlersMulti-speed equipment provides several blower settings that can be configured for different operating modes and applications.
- Variable-Speed Air HandlersA variable-speed blower can adjust airflow more gradually and maintain programmed airflow across changing conditions. Proper setup is essential because the duct system must still support the required air volume.
Supplemental electric heat and indoor air quality accessories may also be available depending on the equipment configuration.
Lennox Air Handler Lineup: Good, Better, Best
An air handler is the indoor half of a heat pump or central air system. It moves the air through your ducts and holds the indoor coil. We install Lennox air handlers built for the new R-454B refrigerant, from simple three-speed models to Lennox's quietest, most efficient design. Click any model to see its full specs on lennox.com.
Merit Series
Dependable, budget-friendly air handlers. A good match for Merit heat pumps and ACs, condos and basic replacements.
- Three-speed, constant-torque or variable-speed motors
- Compact option for tight closets
- R-454B refrigerant ready
Elite Series
High performance and high efficiency for most homes. Pairs well with Elite heat pumps and air conditioners.
- High-efficiency constant-torque motor
- Quieter, steadier airflow
- R-454B refrigerant ready
Dave Lennox Signature Collection
Lennox's highest-performing, most efficient air handler. Built to get the most out of a Signature heat pump or AC.
- Fully digital, variable-speed blower
- Best humidity control and quietest airflow
- Pairs with the Lennox S40 smart thermostat
Compare every Lennox air handler
| Model | Blower motor | Performance | Good for | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merit Series · Good | ||||
| CBK45UHPT | Three-speed | Standard efficiency | Basic replacement, rentals | Lennox.com ↗ |
| CBK43UHET | Constant-torque | High efficiency, compact cabinet | Tight closets and attics | Lennox.com ↗ |
| CBK45UHET | Constant-torque | High efficiency | Everyday value pick | Lennox.com ↗ |
| CBK45UHVT | Variable-speed | High efficiency | Quieter airflow on a budget | Lennox.com ↗ |
| Elite Series · Better | ||||
| CBK47UHET | Constant-torque | High performance, high efficiency | Most homes | Lennox.com ↗ |
| Dave Lennox Signature Collection · Best | ||||
| CBK48MVT | Variable-speed, fully digital | Highest performance and efficiency | Signature heat pump and AC systems | Lennox.com ↗ |
Model details from lennox.com as of October 2026. We match the air handler to your outdoor unit and ductwork after a free in-home evaluation.
When an Air Handler Is Used
Air handlers are commonly paired with central heat pumps and with air conditioners in homes that do not use a furnace as the indoor blower. They may be installed in a basement, mechanical room, closet, attic or other approved location.
Replacement may be considered when the existing indoor unit is incompatible with new outdoor equipment, has a failing blower or coil, or cannot support the desired airflow and control features.
Features to Compare
A Better Blower Cannot Fix a Poor Duct System
Choosing an Air Handler for the Complete System
The air handler must match the outdoor equipment and provide the airflow required by the home’s heating and cooling load. A more advanced blower cannot overcome severely undersized ducts or a restrictive return-air setup.
Pure Comfort reviews equipment matching, duct capacity, filter sizing, available installation space and control requirements before recommending an air handler. The goal is steady, measured airflow that supports the entire system.
Installation and Airflow Setup
Installation may involve the indoor coil, refrigerant connections, condensate drainage, electrical service, duct transitions, filter rack and supplemental heat components. The cabinet must be level, sealed and accessible for maintenance.
After startup, blower settings, static pressure where appropriate, temperature performance, drainage, controls and available operating modes should be tested. Correct configuration is just as important as selecting the equipment.
Why Choose Pure Comfort
Evaluates the air handler as part of the complete HVAC system
Checks ductwork, return air and filter sizing
Verifies equipment and control compatibility
Documented commissioning and options-first recommendations
Related Services and Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an air handler the same as a furnace?
No. Both may circulate air, but a furnace includes a heating section that burns fuel or uses another heat source. An air handler is commonly paired with a heat pump or air conditioner and may include supplemental electric heat.
Does every central air conditioner need an air handler?
Every ducted system needs an indoor blower, but that function may be provided by either an air handler or a furnace. The correct indoor equipment depends on the system design.
Can a new air handler connect to my existing outdoor unit?
Only if the components are properly matched for capacity, refrigerant, controls and performance. Compatibility should be verified before replacement.
Can an air handler improve uneven temperatures?
Better airflow control may help, but uneven comfort can also come from duct restrictions, leakage, poor balancing, sizing or insulation. The cause should be evaluated before equipment is selected.
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