All filters are made in the USA – Order Today
All filters are made in the USA – Order Today
All HVAC systems need air filters to run and function efficiently. But what about the furnace? Can it run without the filter?
The straight answer is yes, you can run a furnace without a filter for a while. For instance, if your residence has an old furnace without the A/C evaporator coil, you may run it without the filter. But it’s not a recommended or viable option.
However, all those systems with evaporator coils require a filter to run properly.
Since the furnace has a very important job, it cannot and should only be run with the filter.
But as much as having no filter is a problem, it’s important to replace the filters timely too.
We have all been through that blonde moment when we suddenly remember we haven’t checked the furnace filter for a while. Then when you check the filter, it’s full of dust and mold, so you dispose of it.
Now you think: Can I run the furnace without the filter- at least til I buy a new one?
Well, the main purpose of the furnace filter is to protect your HVAC equipment. When parts of the HVAC system get coated in dust, they stop working efficiently and may cause the furnace to heat up or short cycle.
Short cycling is the result of overheating of the HVAC system. Whenever the system gets too hot, it starts automatically shutting off repeatedly. It shuts off as soon as it reaches the targeted temperature, but as soon as the temperature drops, it starts heating up again.
The consistent pattern of turning on and off makes it less efficient, causes wear and tear, stresses the motor, and shortens the HVAC system’s life. So you need regular maintenance and upkeep of the filter to keep your system stable and durable. The recommended time to change the filter is between one to three months.
Running the furnace without a filter or using a dirty one is also dangerous for the unit and the health of the individuals. Here’s what happens when you use the furnace without a filter for a long time.
Using the furnace without the filter can become a fire hazard. This is especially a risk with systems that do not have an overheating sensor or have a defective switch. When the dust settles on the wiring and temperatures rise as you turn on the unit, it may result in a fire.
Whenever the components of the HVAC system are covered in dust, they will, of course, function less effectively. This is because the HVAC system has different parts like the blower fan, evaporator coil, motor, etc.
When these components are dusty, the system has to work harder to reach the selected temperatures. You notice the phenomenon more during the extreme winters and summers when you need an efficient HVAC system.
Using the HVAC without the filter will expose the parts to direct dust and other contaminants. When these settle on the evaporator coil especially, it reduces its performance and brings it to 50% of its normal efficiency levels.
Using the HVAC system for a long time without a filter will deeply coat the components in dust over time. For example, when the air ducts and vents are covered in dust, you will get reduced air pressure and flow.
Most modern homes and offices are built to keep the indoors insulated or airtight. In such settings, it’s easier for allergens, dust, bacteria, and viruses to get trapped inside the building.
The air quality goes down, and the same contaminated air keeps circulating within the premises, which is now harmful to all inhabitants. In addition, dust starts to settle everywhere around the house, and people may develop allergies.
Mold is a very common yet dangerous problem that often occurs with HVAC systems used without filters. Since mold needs moisture and dark places to grow, it is often found around the dusty furnace and blower fans.
When the mold develops, the particles travel via the vents into the air and can cause allergies and respiratory troubles.
The best way to go about the HVAC is to use the right filter for the system. But, if you can’t find the right size, use the cut-to-fit method and buy a large filter. Then, you may use duct tape to place it correctly and get your equipment working efficiently.
But it is a short-term solution. Try to look for the exact filter the system is designed to have.
All furnaces use filters; it is an intrinsic part of the furnace or HVAC. The filter functions as a barrier and prevents the flow of airborne particles like pollen, bacteria, dust, mold, and other contaminants through the air into the unit.
The filter also serves as a protective barrier for the HVAC system as it keeps it safe from dust and wear and tear.
However, if you want to ensure the longevity and protection of your furnace or HVAC system, you don’t just need a filter; you must also clean or replace it regularly to maintain a healthy air flow through the unit and inside your home.
If you keep using a dirty filter without cleaning or replacement, it can cause several serious problems. First, since it obstructs the normal airflow through the unit, it can cause it to shut down completely.
If it continues to operate, despite the heavy dust coating, the components will have to work harder than the normal pace. That will affect its efficiency and life, and of course, lead to high heating bills!
If the unit keeps working in such conditions, your electricity bill will go higher and higher, and the unit will get exhausted. That could cause extensive damage to the components of the furnace.
If you wish to avoid such heavy replacement or repair costs, check your filters once every month and replace them as specified for the type of filter you use.
It’s easy to keep the furnace running as it is without routinely checking the filters, but it’s a dangerous practice. In the long run, that could cause extensive damage to the whole unit or require the replacement of expensive parts.
You may use the system without the filter for a while – like an hour or so only. But it’s important to buy the right filter and use it with the furnace as required. Contact custom filters direct.
Have any questions? We’re here and ready to help!
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