Can I use my AC unit if the filter isn't installed? Your air conditioner can function without a filter for a short period.
However, suppose you leave your air conditioner running for longer than 6-8 hours without a filter. In that case, you risk seriously degrading the air quality in your home and causing expensive repairs.
Let's look at the function of an air filter, the consequences of not having one, and the importance of scheduling AC maintenance in Tempe as soon as possible.
How Does My Air Conditioner's Filter Function?
Its primary function is to protect your air conditioner and home from dirt and debris.
To recirculate the air in your home, your air conditioner must first remove its heat. You can rest easy knowing that your air conditioner's return vent is protected thanks to the filter. It protects your air conditioner from dust and other debris.
Lacking a proper air filter, the AC is subject to contamination. In addition, there is a chance that some of this junk will enter your home and land in your air conditioner or furnace. As a result, the air quality in your home could significantly increase, and you could save money on system repairs from less dust and dirt.
As it cools your home, air conditioning draws in stale air from outside and recirculates it. It's a two-pronged issue:
- You are not breathing clean air but rather dust and other particles.
- With the air conditioner running, dust and other particles are being blown around the house and deposited on various surfaces.
The Freezing of Evaporator Coils
Without a filter, your indoor air conditioner will draw in dust, condensing on the evaporator coils. Evaporator coils are more likely to freeze if dust has settled on them.
If your evaporator coils are frozen, you'll experience issues like this.
- Evaporator coils that freeze up cause the air conditioner to work harder, driving up the electricity bill. There will be numerous invoices to pay over time.
- Your air conditioner's compressor could be damaged if you continue to use it despite frozen evaporator coils. The "heart" of your AC system is the compressor located in your outdoor unit. Replacement of the compressor, or "pumper," in your air conditioner can cost several thousand dollars, depending on your model.
- If the evaporator coils in your air conditioner are frozen, it will use less conditioned air to cool the room. If the AC evaporator coil is frozen or clogged, less air will flow through the vent than usual, but the air temperature will still be lower.
Experts in Air Conditioning Replacement in Tempe
You can't just have a malfunctioning air conditioner for no reason. For example, if you don't change the filter in your air conditioner and leave it on for long periods, it could fail before its time.
Contact Rescue One Air for quality AC maintenance and repair. Schedule or learn about AC maintenance for the best indoor air quality available.
You can check out our customer reviews or browse through the Rescue One Air video library to see our AC repair crews in action for further information.
