air handler in crawlspace - InspectionNews

wes owens · #1 (**permalink**) 06-18-2007, 03:54 PM

I was wondering if wrapping an air handler that is installed in a crawlspace with insulation would reduce or even eliminate the excessive amount of condensation that was forming on the unit?

Or would that be a bad idea?

The air handler looked like it was raining underneath.

Jerry Peck · #2 (**permalink**) 06-19-2007, 07:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wes owens

Or would that be a bad idea?

I would think that would create MORE condensation on the metal surfaces, or, at the very least, not allow it to dry, causing it to rust out.

Jim Luttrall · #3 (**permalink**) 06-19-2007, 08:11 AM

It is basically a metal duct, treat it like one. I would check the interior duct liner (insulation) to see it it is has signs of water damage. Wet insulation inside can cause/allow condensation on the outside. If it is dry, reducing the R/H in the crawl or adding insulation would help keep condensation from forming. If you keep it dry, it does not have to dry out...

wes owens · #4 (**permalink**) 06-19-2007, 08:12 AM

I was just wondering if it would do the same as wrapping duct boots to reduce the amount of condensation that wicks onto the sub-floor?

Or kinda like wrapping the refrigerant lines.

I don't know if it would help or not.

Just trying to think of something that might work.

Jerry Peck · #5 (**permalink**) 06-19-2007, 08:54 AM

Least you forget, air handlers, unlike ducts, are opened for servicing.

Wrapping a duct in insulation which is never intended to be disturbed is one thing, wrapping an air handler in insulation which is going to be repeatedly cut open and never sealed back up tight is a totally different animal.

IF the insulation inside the air handler is adequate (as designed) then you should not have all that condensation on the outside.

However, once an air handler overflows inside the unit, the insulation gets wet and become like all wet insulation - useless.

Likewise, once the insulation has been cut and taped and cut and tape and cut and taped, you know it will be leaking air around those cuts and tape.

Heck, ever seen one re-taped after the first cut? Not often.