Your HVAC system can operate without a filter for only a couple of hours. The operation of an HVAC device without filters is likely acceptable for a brief duration; however, doing this for more than six hours is not advisable.
To avoid frequent central air conditioning repairs, do not let dirty air enter your home and potentially damage the equipment.
The Role Of A Filter In An HVAC
The primary function of the AC filter is to clean the air flowing through your air conditioning unit. The material that makes up the filter is made to hold and capture elements and pollutants that might enter your home.
By capturing these particles, your filter ensures the safety of your family and your AC equipment. The contaminants that AC filters trap are:
- Dust and dirt
- Allergens and pollens
- Mold
- Lint and fibers
- Fur and hair of animals
- Ply, metal, and wood particles
- Bacteria, as well as other microorganisms
What Happens If You Continue To Run An AC In The Absence Of A Filter?
Dust and dirt, usually absorbed by filters, could make it to the AC system and damage the mechanical parts, leading to costly AC repairs. For quality HVAC services in Port Charlotte, contact Emery Air Conditioning.
Issues With The Motor Or Compressor: Debris and dirt are the most common cause of problems with the motor or compressor. Without a filter that effectively blocks dirt, it can enter the motor or compressor, causing stress on the system’s performance.
Poor Indoor Air Quality: The air filter in your home can trap harmful substances and stop the circulation of these substances through your house. If you don’t have an air filter, there will be a substantial reduction in the quality of the air you breathe, which can affect the well-being of your family members.
Energy Costs Are Higher: The absence of an air filter could create compressor or motor problems. The whole system is then forced to work harder to keep your house cool, requiring frequent central air conditioning repairs. It could result in more energy costs as the system requires more significant power.
Water Damage: If you don’t have an air filter that can capture particles, your condensate drain will get blocked. The drain assists in getting rid of the humidity that your air conditioner takes from your home. However, without a place for the water to drain, it can cause damage to your system due to buildup.
Dirty Ducts: Dirty ducts can accumulate debris, causing insufficient airflow and other problems.
Bottom Line
Without filters, the HVAC system can draw on the debris-laden air and then return that polluted air to your indoor environment, leading to health issues. It can reduce the lifespan of the system.
We’ll be able to provide you with more information about air filters as well as how to maintain the HVAC unit properly. Contact Emery Air Conditioning for commercial and residential HVAC requirements. Reach us at 941-629-7733 to schedule an appointment for AC repair in Port Charlotte.
