An HVAC system can technically operate without a filter, but this is not recommended. Without a filter, the system will suck in debris-laden air and return the same dirty air to the indoor environment, contributing to health problems. Although the answer to this question is yes, your air conditioning system will continue to operate without a filter, you should never attempt to do so. We understand that you may not always have a new replacement filter on hand when you want to replace your current one, but it's best to wait until you have a replacement filter.
Running the air conditioner without a filter is worse than running it with a dirty one. Instead, go to the store as soon as possible for a replacement or call an HVAC professional to have it replaced. Without a filter, your air conditioner is at risk of serious and costly problems. Follow our advice and never run your system without one.
Yes, the central air conditioner has a filter. In fact, most central air conditioning units have two or more filters. These filters clean the air and ensure good air quality as the unit circulates between indoor and outdoor air. The good news is that yes, you can run the air conditioner while you go to the store.
This doesn't mean you can run the air conditioner permanently without a filter and just sweep your house more often. An air conditioner cannot work longer than 6-8 hours without a filter and not be damaged. More than this, and you could be configuring your system for serious damage. The longer you leave your air conditioner running without a filter, the more likely you are to have problems with indoor air quality.
As a result, you or others in your household may experience increased symptoms of allergy, respiratory problems, eye irritation, or irritation of the nose and throat. They will come to your house and replace the filter or explain how you can do it over the phone. If you use disposable filters, find the exact filter size to purchase and install a replacement filter. By trapping these particles within its fibers, the filter keeps them out of the HVAC system, helping to protect your family and your air conditioning equipment. Now that we know why it's important to have an air conditioning filter, let's take a look at how it works and what happens when you don't replace it often enough.
The main purpose of your AC filter is to clean the air that circulates through your air conditioning system. You can choose to replace the filter later in the evening or on a day when local stores that sell filters aren't open. Ultimately, running your air conditioner without a filter for the long term is never a good idea, as it will result in the need for a premature air conditioner replacement in Fort Lauderdale, FL. If you don't replace the air filter often enough, it will work less efficiently or it may stop working altogether due to clogged filters. To change the AC filter, vacuum or clean the AC panel door and remove the filter from the AC unit.
Depending on the type of filter you have, six months is the longest you should go without replacing or cleaning the filter. When you operate your air conditioning system without a filter, dust is absorbed into the indoor air conditioning unit and settles on a part of that system called evaporator coils.
