Rheem air handler troubleshooting

Air handler not working right? We’ve got Rheem air handler troubleshooting tips to address some of the most common issues. Give these suggestions a try before calling a repairperson unnecessarily.

Or, if you prefer to leave the troubleshooting to the pros, click below to connect with an HVAC technician who can quickly get your air handler back to work.

Rheem air handler has weak airflow

First, check the filters throughout your HVAC system. You should change them regularly. If they get overwhelmed with dust, they’ll weaken airflow. If your filters need a refresh, order new ones on Amazon or pick them up at a nearby hardware store.

Next, take a look at your ductwork. You can see a partial view of your ducts by removing the registers and looking in with a flashlight. If you spot any blockages, remove them. If you see any holes, repair them with aluminum foil tape or sealant. Consider hiring a duct cleaning company to give your ductwork a full checkup.

Finally, check your AC compressor or heat pump. Remove the cabinet cover (you may need to unscrew it with a screwdriver). Examine your evaporator coil. It’s the part with U-shaped metal tubing at the ends. If it’s frozen, it may be causing diminished airflow. Call an HVAC technician. You may have a refrigerant leak, which isn’t a DIY fix.

If these Rheem air handlers troubleshooting tips don’t work, call a professional for help. There may be an issue with your blower motor or circuitry.

Rheem air handler blower motor isn’t working

First, make sure your air handler has power. If it’s connected to a switch, check that it’s on. Inspect your electrical box for a tripped circuit breaker. If you find one, reset it.

Set your thermostat to “on” instead of “off” or “auto.” While “auto” is generally the preferred setting, “on” should make your air handler blow regardless of the temperature setting.

Check the air filters throughout your HVAC system, especially at your air returns. You should change them regularly. If they’re clogged, they may inhibit airflow and cause different elements of your system to malfunction. You can replace your filters with new ones from Amazon or a local hardware store.

Examine your ductwork. Your air handler may be blowing, but the air isn’t coming through the vents because of leaks or blockages. Open your registers and look in with a flashlight. If you see debris, clean it out. If you see holes or damaged joints, repair them with aluminum foil tape or sealant.

Finally, open the cabinet and check the blower motor. Clean out any dust or blockages with canned air or a soft cloth. If you notice the blower motor humming with its lights turned on, the issue is likely with the capacitor. Call an HVAC technician for a repair.

If these Rheem air handler troubleshooting tips don’t get your system back to work, an HVAC expert can determine what’s going on.

Rheem air handler is leaking

Water plus electricity is dangerous, so immediately turn off your air handler at your electrical box. Clean up the excess water with an old towel or a shop vac immediately to avoid damage to your home.

Most air handlers sit on a drain pan to collect condensation. Check the drain pan for mold and debris that may be causing it to overflow. Clean it out with an old towel or shop vac. If it’s cracked or broken, you’ll need to replace it to avoid more leakage.

Your air handler has a condensate drain tube that may clog, causing leaks. Remove the tube and suck out any blockages with a shop vac. Use your garden hose to flush out the tube if you don’t have one.

Check the air filters throughout your HVAC system, especially at your air returns. You should replace them every few months. If yours are full of dust, they may prohibit air from flowing over your air hander’s evaporator coils. This, in turn, may cause them to freeze. When they melt, it might appear that water is leaking.

Similarly, low refrigerant levels or a refrigerant leak may cause your coils to freeze. An HVAC technician can locate and repair a leak and replace your refrigerant.

Rheem air handler troubleshooting resources

There’s a section on Rheem’s website with information to help fix your HVAC equipment. The company also has a Homeowner Resource Center with materials on warranties and parts for its HVAC products.