Fan Coil Unit vs Air Handling Unit: What's The Difference?

When designing a new industrial space or retrofitting an existing one, engineers must consider numerous factors specific to the facility. In many cases, it is difficult to anticipate what operational and design needs a space may have in the future. This is especially true when considering smaller details like air handling units (AHU) and fan coil units (FCU). These two systems are common pieces of HVAC equipment found in almost any industrial or commercial building. They both serve similar purposes; however, there are some significant differences between an AHU and a FCU that designers must take into account before making final decisions about the design of the space. For those who are already familiar with these terms and know why they’re important when it comes to designing a new space or retrofitting an existing one, continue reading for a brief summary of AHUs vs FCUs. If you’d like to learn more about either system in greater detail, simply continue reading for detailed explanations of the pros and cons of each type of equipment.

What is an Air Handling Unit (AHU)?

An air handling unit (AHU) is a device that is frequently used in industrial facilities and commercial buildings to condition indoor air. Air handling units can be found in a variety of industries, including food production, healthcare, and manufacturing. AHUs are often used in conjunction with air curtains to help control indoor air quality and manage airflow in a space. AHUs often have multiple fans, ducts, and other accessories that are used to distribute conditioned or unconditioned air throughout a building. Each of these devices has an important job to do in ensuring that indoor air is clean, comfortable, and safe for personnel. An air handling unit can be thought of as a small, centralized air conditioner or heater that is usually placed above or near the ceiling of a room or building. AHUs are sometimes installed as independent units, but they are often combined with other HVAC equipment like humidifiers, dehumidifiers, or filtration systems.

What is a Fan Coil Unit (FCU)?

A fan coil unit (FCU) is a piece of HVAC equipment that is commonly used in commercial buildings and industrial facilities. Similar to air handling units, FCUs are often used to condition indoor air and manage flow throughout a building. FCUs are powerful units that can distribute cool or warm air throughout a large space. While they are often used in conjunction with air handling units, FCUs have the capacity to deliver large volumes of air without the need for ductwork. The most significant difference between air handling units and fan coil units is the method of air delivery. While air handling units use ductwork to distribute air throughout a building, an FCU uses direct air delivery.

AHU vs FCU: Which Should You Choose?

Both air handling units and fan coil units are important components of any industrial or commercial building. However, as you’ve learned, there are many differences between these two equipment types. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, which means that one may be better suited for a given application than the other. If you are in the process of designing a new industrial or commercial space or retrofitting an existing one, it is important to select the most appropriate equipment for each application. When making these decisions, it is important to consider factors such as the size of the room, the space requirements, and the desired CFM requirements. It is also important to consider the AHU vs FCU debate when selecting appropriate equipment for your industrial or commercial building.

Conclusion

When designing a new industrial space or retrofitting an existing one, engineers must consider numerous factors specific to the facility. In many cases, it is difficult to anticipate what operational and design needs a space may have in the future. This is especially true when considering smaller details like air handling units and fan coil units. These two systems are common pieces of HVAC equipment found in almost any industrial or commercial building. They both serve similar purposes; however, there are some significant differences between an AHU and a FCU that designers must take into account before making final decisions about the design of the space. If you’re in the process of designing a new industrial or commercial space or retrofitting an existing one, it is important to select the most appropriate equipment for each application. When making these decisions, it is important to consider factors such as the size of the room, the space requirements, and the desired CFM requirements. It is also important to consider the AHU vs FCU debate when selecting appropriate equipment for your industrial or commercial building.