What is the main purpose of air handling units (AHUs)?

The primary function of air handling units (AHUs) is to circulate and condition air within a building. AHUs play a crucial role in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system by ensuring that indoor air is properly ventilated, tempered, and distributed throughout different spaces. They take in air from the outside or return air from within the building, filter it to remove particulates, condition it by heating or cooling as necessary, and then distribute it via ductwork to various areas.

While AHUs can incorporate filtration systems to improve air quality, their overarching role extends beyond just filtering pollutants; they are integral to managing the overall air environment in a building. This includes maintaining thermal comfort and indoor air quality, which is essential for occupant comfort and health. The other functions mentioned in the other choices do not accurately capture the comprehensive purpose of AHUs, which is focused on air circulation and conditioning rather than solely generating heat, filtering pollutants, or storing refrigerant.