Having an air filter in the intake vent of your home air conditioning system is essential, regardless of whether you keep your windows open or not. The air filter serves several crucial purposes:
Particulate filtration: The primary function of an air filter is to trap dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other airborne particles. Without an air filter, these particles can enter your HVAC system and circulate throughout your home, leading to reduced indoor air quality and potential health issues, especially for those with allergies or respiratory conditions.
Protection of HVAC components: Air filters also help protect the HVAC system's components, such as the blower motor, evaporator coils, and ductwork, from becoming clogged with dust and debris. A clogged system can reduce efficiency, increase energy consumption, and potentially cause damage over time.
Improved efficiency: A clean air filter allows for better airflow, which can lead to increased efficiency and performance of your HVAC system. When the air filter is clogged, it restricts airflow, making the system work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher energy bills.
Now, if you've been running your air conditioning system without an air filter for years and haven't experienced any apparent problems, there could be a few possible reasons for this:
Minimal indoor air pollution: If your home is relatively clean, and you don't have many indoor pollutants, the impact of not having an air filter might be less noticeable. However, this doesn't mean that harmful particles aren't circulating in your indoor air.
Limited system use: If you only use your air conditioning system sparingly or in specific seasons, the accumulation of dust and debris might be slower, so the effects of not having an air filter might take longer to manifest.
Regular maintenance: If you've been regularly cleaning the HVAC components and the system has been professionally maintained, it may have helped offset some of the negative effects of not having an air filter.
Despite not experiencing noticeable problems, it's still essential to install an air filter to protect your HVAC system and improve indoor air quality. Even if you keep your windows open, outdoor air can bring in pollutants, and an air filter will help minimize their impact on your indoor environment. Make sure to choose an appropriate air filter based on your system's specifications and replace or clean it regularly, according to the manufacturer's recommendations.