Can Furnaces Run Without a Filter?
Some people may think of furnace filters as nothing more than an air purifier. They are actually a necessary part of your heating setup. In fact, you should still use an air purifier if you're concerned about air quality. As any HVAC company will tell you, without it, your heater may not work well. It may not even work at all!
What Heating Filtration Devices Do
As the name suggests, this device filters out debris. This mean that this debris cannot enter your home and breathed in by you or your family members. It also means the debris does not enter your heater. If it did, it could lead to damages. A filtration device keeps your furnace working and improves the life of your heater. Without one, you would have to repair and replace your HVAC system more often. The cost would add up quicker than you would expect.
If the filter becomes too full, the airflow decreases. Your furnace may not perform as well without enough air. Your home may even be cold despite high energy bills. This can also cause a heater to overheat and shut down.
When to Replace Your Filter
You should check your furnace before the weather turns cold. An HVAC professional might recommend monthly checkups when using your heater. It's easy to check without help from an HVAC technician. Open the access panel and take a look after shutting down the system. Here, you'll also see the type of filter and size. You'll need to know this to buy a replacement. Cardboard filters are single-use, while some have a reusable plastic frame. You can wash, dry, and replace reusable ones.
If you need to replace a cardboard filter, you remove it and insert a new one. Make sure the arrows are facing the same direction as the previous one. These arrows show the direction of airflow. Even when filters are not dirty, replacing them can help your furnace run better. It can also prolong the life of your furnace. Remember that no furnace will last forever.
Running a Furnace Without Filtration
Furnaces can run without filtration. But, you run the risk of doing damage to the machine the longer you do not use one. You may not have to see an HVAC professional as often when you follow directions.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Robert Bair Plumbing today. We have the skills and experience to help with your problems. We want you and your family to stay comfortable all year round.
