What is the purpose of an air handling unit (AHU)?

The purpose of an air handling unit (AHU) is to condition and circulate air as part of the HVAC system. This central component plays a crucial role in regulating indoor climate by managing the air quality, temperature, and humidity levels within a building. An AHU works by taking in environmental air, filtering it to remove dust and contaminants, heating or cooling it as needed, and redistributing it throughout the space via ductwork.

While filtering pollutants from the air is a function that an AHU can perform, it is not its primary purpose; rather, filtering is one part of the broader role of conditioning the air. Generating heat for the building is typically the role of a separate heating system or boiler, and while an AHU may contribute to heating by using a heating coil, its main function encompasses more than just generating heat. Lastly, moisture removal is also a function that can be handled within an AHU, often through dehumidification processes, but like filtering, it is just one aspect of the air conditioning and circulation process that the unit primarily serves to fulfill. Overall, the conditioning and circulation of air encapsulate the fundamental role of an AHU within an HVAC system.