Can an air conditioner work when no air filter is in?
Let’s get right to the point. You should never run an AC without an air filter.
While it is sometimes known as a “furnace filter” an air filter is an important part of your home’s entire heating AND cooling system. That relatively inexpensive item is vital. Just because it is probably the cheapest part of your home’s HVAC system, it is still important.
But maybe you are wondering another question: “Will my AC work if I run it without a filter?”
The answer to that question is yes. But there is more you should know. In this article, we will go over the importance of a filter over the hot months. You will see how you are putting your cooling system at risk for break downs and other problems if you run it without a filter in place.
Hanna Heating & Air Conditioning is the Kansas team of AC repair experts serving Wichita, Newton, Andover and surrounding towns. Our HVAC technicians are trained and experienced to work on any type of cooling system.
Often, our team encounters AC problems that were avoidable. For example, sometimes a repair is needed simply because the homeowner didn’t have a clean air filter installed in their system. And so that is why we want everyone to know that having a clean air filter installed is important all year long.
No Air Filter: What Can Go Wrong?
Without an air filter, the condensation drain can fail to function. This can lead to condensation to accumulate which can cause a leak and damage your system.
Your air filter filters out dust and debris, and small particles of pollutants. Without a filter, nothing is in place to stop these tiny particles from getting into the air you breathe. If you suffer from allergies, asthma, or other lung issues, it will not likely take long for you to feel the negative effects of running an air conditioning system without a filter.
Dirt that is not stopped by a filter will make its way into your ductwork. This can increase moisture in your ducts which promotes mold growth.
Other negative consequences include:
- Higher energy bills
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Air not cooling sufficiently
- Damaged compressor
AC Break Downs are Likely
Without anything to stop the dirt and debris from traveling through your home’s cooling system, the parts inside will be affected. You will find them covered in dirt and grime and completely stop working altogether. It is likely that certain parts will need to be repaired or replaced. You may need to have your entire HVAC system replaced.
Either way, the cost of making sure you have a clean air filter in place is much, much cheaper than all the destruction not having one is likely to cause.
How to Change an AC Filter
Are you not sure how to change your filter or what direction it goes? Check this article for a helpful guide to correctly installing an air filter.
How often do you need to change your filer?
Many find they need to replace their filter every 6-8 weeks. However, you may want to change it more frequently if any of these apply to you:
- You have pets
- There are many people in the home
- People who suffer from allergies
- People with breathing issues or illnesses
What if I NEED to run the AC and I don’t have a filter?
Running an AC without a filter may be okay to do for only a matter of hours without causing any significant problems. If you feel like you need to run the air conditioner without a filter, the first thing you should do is head to the store for a replacement filter and get it installed right away.
Need an AC Technician to Help?
If you have any questions about your air filter or anything else about your home’s cooling system, call the team of AC repair experts at Hanna Heating and Air Conditioning at (316) 945-3481.
Hanna Heating & Air technicians are qualified to service any type of air conditioner or cooling system. We provide 24/7 service and deliver friendly, quality service at a fair price.
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