What Happens When You Don't Use an Air Filter in Your AC?

Without a filter, the condensate drain will not be able to drain moisture from the air conditioning unit. This will result in condensation accumulating in the Freon tube, which will then drip down the tray and cause water damage to the entire system. Additionally, an old, dirty filter or no filter at all can lead to debris such as dust and hair building up in your unit. This can cause significant damage to your air conditioning system.

The debris can get trapped inside the air conditioner and clog its parts, preventing them from working properly. Furthermore, all the dust and dirt can restrict airflow and cause the air conditioner to overheat and shut off. In some cases, it can even cause permanent damage to your engine, requiring you to replace it. If you want your air conditioner to stay in good condition and last as long as possible, it's essential to use an air filter and change it regularly.

In theory, you can operate your air conditioner without a filter for a short period of time. However, doing so for more than 6 to 8 hours can be detrimental to your system and reduce the quality of your home's indoor air. The air conditioner blows cold air into your home while also expelling any dust or other particles that are trapped inside your HVAC system. If you don't have a filter, more dirt will enter your home, recirculate, and be reabsorbed.

As a result, you may experience shortness of breath or an increase in allergy symptoms. The filter traps these particles within its fibers, keeping them out of the HVAC system and protecting your family and your air conditioning equipment. Cleaning the central air conditioning filter helps the unit consistently produce cool air and keep the air in your home clean and healthy. When you change your air conditioning filter every month during peak cooling season, you can save about 15% each month on utilities, as well as avoid repair problems due to airflow restrictions.

While some homeowners can clean or replace their air conditioning filters on their own, there's no shame in letting a professional do the work for you. The main purpose of the air conditioning filter is to clean the air circulating in the air conditioning system. HEPA filters are especially effective at trapping allergens and spores. Periodic maintenance of your air conditioning filter will ensure that the air conditioner dispenses the best air quality that suits the required conditions of your environment.

HVAC systems equipped with clean and efficient filters are not only beneficial for keeping pollutants out of your home but also help save money on utilities. Today I want to talk about what happens if you don't use an air filter in your air conditioning unit or if you go months without changing it. Without a filter, dust is absorbed into the indoor air conditioning unit and settles on a part of that system called evaporator coils. This can lead to clogged parts, overheating, permanent engine damage, poor indoor air quality, increased allergy symptoms, and more.