Without a filter, the condensate drain won't be able to drain moisture from the air conditioning unit, leading to condensation buildup in the Freon tube. This can cause significant damage to your system, as debris such as dust and hair can clog the parts and prevent them from working properly. In addition, all the accumulation of dust and dirt can restrict airflow and cause the air conditioner to overheat and shut down, potentially causing permanent damage to your engine. It's key to use an air filter and change it frequently if you want your air conditioner to stay in good condition and last as long as possible.
If the air filter is clogged and can't trap contaminants like it did before, those things can go back to the air that everyone in your home breathes. This can lead to immediate problems such as headaches, itchy eyes or throat, and dizziness. If air filters are not changed and problems persist, long-term effects could be respiratory disease, heart disease, or cancer. One way to do this is to keep the air filter clean and always make sure it is in place before operating the system.
Running your air conditioner without a filter for more than 6 to 8 hours can cause serious damage to your air conditioning system and significantly reduce the air quality in your home. If your air conditioner is congested with air particles, you'll need to work harder to circulate cool air in your home. With a clogged air filter, air will not flow through the coils properly, causing them to stop working and causing total system failure. Regularly changing an air filter is a simple thing that makes a big difference. Air filters typically have a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Report Value) that determines the type and size of contaminants against which the filter will act.
Another thing that can happen when you neglect your AC air filter is that dirt that accumulates in your system restricts the flow of cold air. The main purpose of the air conditioning filter is to clean the air circulating in the air conditioning system. A dirty filter forces the HVAC unit to work harder than normal because it finds it more difficult to draw air. The only type of filters that trap allergens and spores are HEPA, or high-energy particulate air filters. This means that the entire system has to work harder to distribute heat or air where it's needed, increasing your utility bills, as the air runs longer. I know people are busy, but regularly changing an air filter is a simple thing that makes a big difference.
Keep reading to learn more about how air filters work in your HVAC system and what can happen when they aren't changed on a regular basis.
