When the filter becomes clogged, it can restrict the flow of air to the HVAC system, which can cause it to overheat. This can lead to damage to the system's components and potentially even a complete failure of the system. Finally, a dirty cabin air filter can also have a negative impact on the environment.
When your car is idling or stationary, you should feel and hear the smooth vibrations of an efficient engine. If you notice unusual noises, in particular a coughing, popping or spitting noise, it suggests that the engine isn't getting enough airflow, which means your air filter needs to be replaced.
Imagine that the air filter functions as the ''lungs'' of your car and it prevents the dirt and dust from entering the engine. A blocked filter can lead to a check engine light, weaker acceleration, poor engine performance, and the vehicle will not be working smoothly.
A dirty or clogged cabin filter will cause a decrease in the flow of air coming from the vents inside your car. You may also notice the blower motor malfunction or not perform efficiently when the cabin filter is clogged.
When you leave an AC unit's air filter clogged for too long, you can experience a failure of the entire system. This is because the unit can only work for so long at twice the power before it finally breaks down.
No, you should never run your AC without a filter!
Although there are specific situations when this may be acceptable for a very short time, in most situations running your AC without a filter could be disastrous. Generally, anytime you run your air conditioning system without an air filter you are taking a major risk.
Not only can a dirty air filter cause your AC not to cool, but it can lead to significant problems with your cooling system. You risk damage to the entire system because of the airflow restriction due to clogged filters.
You might wonder about the risks of running your AC without a filter, even temporarily. The simple answer is: not for long. Ideally, your AC should never operate without a filter for more than 6-8 hours. Going beyond this can negatively affect both your system's health and your home's air quality.
Your engine does not work well with contaminated air. The engine does not put out enough power or performance when it is dirty. If your car jerks when you try to accelerate, it may not be getting enough oxygen. The horsepower in your vehicle is dependent entirely on the amount of oxygen the engine receives.
What happens if your HVAC filter is dirty? A dirty HVAC filter restricts airflow, which can lead to poor system efficiency, increased energy costs, and wear and tear on the unit.
As your air filter catches unwanted particles, it's also helping your engine pull in the clean air it needs to operate effectively. But when the filter wears down and gets dirty, it can choke off your car's air flow and hurt your engine's acceleration power.
Damaged Spark Plugs: Driving with a clogged air filter for too long can cause an excess of unburnt fuel, leading to carbon deposits on your spark plugs. This, in turn, can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulties starting the engine.
How much does it cost to replace an air filter? Replacing your car's air filter can cost anywhere from $20-$50, depending on the type of vehicle you have and the quality of filter. A high-quality filter will ensure better airflow, engine performance, and fuel economy — so it's worth investing in a reliable one!
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.
Breathing in Pollution
Of course, the most noticeable problem with a missing cabin filter is the air quality. You will be breathing in all of the contaminants spewed by other vehicles on the road, like diesel fumes and burning oil.
One of the first things you'll notice when your cabin air filter starts to wear out is decreased airflow from the vehicle's vents. If it feels like your car's AC or heating isn't blowing as hard as it once did, it might not be an issue with the system itself, but rather a clogged filter blocking airflow.
Over time, the air filter draws in pet dander, dust, dirt, and other contaminants. That's its job. However, if the fibers get too clogged with debris, the HVAC system can't pull air through the filter. Eventually, this can cause the system to shut down.
Common Reasons AC Doesn't Run Cold
The most common causes of broken air conditioning leaks or compression issues. If you are feeling cool — but not cold — air, the issue could be a clogged filter, a problem with the cooling fan, signs of radiator trouble, or it could simply mean it's time to recharge your AC.
Just like how a low fan speed on a hot day will never make you feel cold enough, a clogged cabin air filter restricts airflow, which can make your AC seem less effective. So, while a new cabin air filter might not make your AC 'colder,' it certainly contributes to a cooler and more comfortable cabin experience.
Even though your air conditioning system will work without a filter, experts recommend against it because it can cause severe damage to your AC system and then you'll need to pay for expensive repairs.