As the warmer weather approaches, it’s natural to start thinking about our air conditioning systems. Before they need to be turned on for the first time, it’s advisable to schedule a tune-up to ensure that the AC is working efficiently. At the heart of every HVAC system, there is a relatively inexpensive component that many people misunderstand. In this article, we will be talking about the humble air filter and the critical role that it plays in your AC system.
What is the Purpose of the AC Filter?
Many people believe that the air conditioner filter is designed to improve the indoor air quality (IAQ) because it removes particulates from the air. This is partially true, the surface of the air filter does trap airborne pollutants, including hair, dirt, dust, pet dander, and more. But, it’s not an air purification system, the improvements to the IAQ are minor and this role is not the primary function of the AC filter. The true purpose is to prevent those airborne particulates from entering the air conditioning system. Every HVAC system has a number of complex parts and many of those components are sensitive to dirt, dust, and dander. Protecting these components should be a priority to maintain performance and energy efficiency and to save money.
How is an Air Filter Made?
Most modern HVAC air filters are constructed from one of three different materials. They are dense cloth, pleated paper, and spun fiberglass. These materials may be suspended in a frame and they are shaped to fit a specific type of filter housing. There are many models, when you purchase an air filter online check that the model matches your system. The air filters that can be used in your heating and cooling equipment are detailed in the owner’s manual and you can usually find a pdf copy if you’ve misplaced it. The filter housing can be located at the front of the furnace at the bottom of the unit if your AC and heating system share the same air ducts. If you have separate systems, the air filter may be located in the return air duct instead.
What Particulates Can an Air Filter Remove?
This will vary depending on the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of your air filter. The MERV rating refers to the size of the particles that can be removed and a higher rating means that the air filter removes more pollutants. But, there is a tradeoff, the more dense the air filter, the more force that’s required to push the air through it. So, if you have a very high MERV rated air filter, you will have higher energy bills. In fact, the highest rated MERV air filters are unlikely to work in a residential heating and cooling system. These super high-efficiency air filters are used in hospitals, clean rooms, and other facilities where the cleanliness of the air is incredibly important. But, even a standard MERV rated air filter can remove a number of contaminants, such as dust, dirt, lint, pet fur, pollen, mold spores, and more. These will make minor improvements to the IAQ, but they are no substitute for a dedicated air purification system. If you’re concerned about cleaner and fresher air for your home, contact your local heating and cooling specialist today.
Will the AC System Run With No Filter?
The short answer is yes, but there’s no point in doing this and we wouldn’t recommend it for your home. If you don’t have an air filter on-hand, it’s tempting to run the AC system without it and this can lead to serious problems. In fact, running the system with no air filter is far worse than running it with a dirty air filter. Why? Well, at least the dirty air filter is still preventing particulates from coming into contact with the sensitive components. The systems may be running inefficiently and it may be prone to failures and we would not recommend using a dirty air filter for too long. If you are caught without an appropriate air filter, contact your local HVAC specialist and they can help. When you order your air filters, buy them in bulk to save money and ensure that you have spares on-hand.
What Happens if No Air Filter is Fitted?
There are some serious problems that can arise if you run the AC system without an air filter installed. The comfort levels in your home will drop, unexpected repairs may be needed and you could even cause some permanent damage to the HVAC system. Let’s take a closer look at five main problems that can occur when an air filter is not fitted. They are:
1. Dirty Ductwork
The air filter is designed to remove particulates that could otherwise move freely throughout the ductwork. This dust and debris can accumulate on the inner walls of the ductwork which will cause a drop in airflow and IAQ. If the air from your vents is not as fresh as it should be, check the air filter, then contact your local HVAC specialist and ask about their duct cleaning services.
2. Poor IAQ
Even a standard air filter will have some positive impact on the IAQ in your home. The air filter can trap many harmful contaminants that you don’t want to breathe in. If those particulates are being moved throughout the home multiple times each day, the IAQ will drop significantly.
3. Mold Growth and Water Damage
An increase in debris moving through the HVAC system can clog the condensate drain. This can backup to cause water damage and there is a potential for mold growth.
4. Higher Energy Bills
Running the system without an air filter can cause problems with the compressor or motor. The system will work harder to compensate for a lack of performance which consumes more power.
5. Damage to Components
The dust, dirt, and other airborne particulates can cause damage to the motor, compressor, and electronic components. This can lead to overworking which can cause unexpected repair bills and a shorter than expected lifespan.
In Conclusion
Regular air filter changes are necessary to protect your heating and cooling equipment. Buy air filters in bulk to make sure you have a spare when you need it and this will save you money. If you want to schedule some essential maintenance for your system, contact your local HVAC specialist today.