Make sure you’re not skimping out on your air filters any time of the year. You might think that it’s alright to go without changing them, but you couldn’t be more wrong. There is a long list of problems that can occur when your HVAC system lacks proper filtering capabilities. Read on to learn more about the most significant problems with running central air without a filter.
Poor Air Quality All Around
Not having a filter on your air conditioning unit will cause dust and debris to move throughout your home. Before you know it, if you’re not filtering your air, you’re just blowing around dirt. Dander collects from everything that enters the house, and without a filter to catch it, you may breathe it in.
Increased Ductwork Issues
The longer you let your system run without a proper air filtration system, the more you will notice blockages in your ducts from an accumulation of dust and dander. If you have animals in the home, you could even have hairballs that cover the vents, causing your airflow to stop altogether.
You’ll Clog Your Condensation Drain
If you’re not careful, a lack of filtration and airflow could cause things to worsen within the unit itself. Your evaporation drain can even experience clogs if you fail to maintain it. These clogs can make the coils on your unit freeze solid, damaging the unit internally and eventually causing it to turn off altogether. At this point, you would need to hire a service technician to fix your air conditioner.
High Energy Costs From Inefficient Operation
With all these things going on, you might not have the chance to notice leakage coming from the seals in your house. This issue stems from the lack of air pressure built up from proper air conditioning. Without the right air pressure, moisture can seep in and affect the windows and door frames, contributing to mold growth in the home. If you don’t change your filter often, you many benefit from getting a blower door test done, as it can help you determine if your seals are in good condition.
As you can see, many problems with running central air without a filter can occur, causing more trouble than you could imagine. The easiest solution is to routinely change your home’s air filters. You could also install a permanent solution to keep your air clean and your HVAC system healthy.
