What happens if you run the AC with a dirty filter?

• <div><p>If you run an AC with a dirty filter, it could allow dust and dirt to build up in your ductwork, which could make you sick. At the same time, your air conditioner won’t work as efficiently as it would with a clean filter, likely resulting in less airflow, more wear and tear on your HVAC system, and higher energy bills.</p></div>

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*The Angi rating for Heating And Air Conditioning Service companies in , is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating And Air Conditioning Service needs.

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Last update on November 08, 2025

Reviewed in October 2020
I play a yearly service fee to get my heat and AC checked out, twice a year. It's awesome. The techs are always great.
CJS Heating and Air Columbus
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Reviewed in April 2017
We were having problems with our AC and contacted several service providers. The AC repair turned into the purchase/installation of a complete AC system (air & furnace). The representative from Wise was the most knowledgeable of the providers we met. We were pleased with all of the work...
Wise Heating and Cooling LLC
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Reviewed in January 2017
The heater part of the A/C was not working. They did a great job for me. They're very punctual, hence the name AC-911. It took them a couple of hours to do the service. It was all in the attic, so it was pretty, as far as I can tell, clean.
AC-911
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Reviewed in June 2015
Standard A/C tune up before the summer heat starts. Everything went fine. 10 year old house.
Fire & Ice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc
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Reviewed in February 2015
It went great. We have depended on Heating & A/C Systems for years. Whenever we have had a problem with our furnace or heat pump, we always called them. Rob and his associate are personable, professional and reasonably priced. We have hired other HVAC companies when Rob was not available however...
Heating & AC Systems
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Reviewed in January 2014
I have a service maintenance plan with Sears Heating Co. on my Bryant furnance and air-condtioner. Jodi checks the air-conditioning in the spring and the furnace in the fall. He is very knowledgeable and dependable. I feel confident that both are in good working condition after he does the...
Sears Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in November 2013
I used Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning
Aire Serv of Greater Columbus
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Reviewed in October 2010
I have an annual contract with them. They come out twice a year to service my heating and air conditioning units. Three years ago, they installed heating and air conditioning systems, at a reasonable price. They are a great company. They are good at scheduling. They come out on time. The service...
Buckeye Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in July 2008
Our experience was good. Our air conditioner broke so they came out sand did a diagnosis. They ended up installing a new air conditioner and heater. They know what they're doing. I would recommend them and use them again.
Airtron Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in July 2003
VERY RELIABLE COMPANY. WE USE THEM FOR ALL OUR HEATING AND A/C SERVICE NEEDS.
Favret Heating & Cooling
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Heating and Air Conditioning questions, answered by experts

If you run an AC with a dirty filter, it could allow dust and dirt to build up in your ductwork, which could make you sick. At the same time, your air conditioner won’t work as efficiently as it would with a clean filter, likely resulting in less airflow, more wear and tear on your HVAC system, and higher energy bills.

Look up your model number online to find additional information. Usually, you can just take a look at the old filter and find the brand name and dimensions to order a new one. When replacing the filter, always check that it’s pointed the right way to match the direction of your airflow. Many filters have arrows on them to help with this step.

No, it's not advisable to only replace the outside AC unit connected to your system. AC units are designed to work as a cohesive system, and older units work differently than newer units. Therefore, replacing only one component can lead to incompatibilities that affect the system’s performance. Replacing one component can void your warranty, costing you money for repairs.

It’s never a good idea to run your AC without a filter, even just for a night. The filter defends your HVAC system from the dust, dirt, debris, and other grime in your home. Without a filter, those contaminants are more likely to get inside your system and potentially damage it.

While both have advantages, a split system is generally cheaper than a ducted one. Because they are less invasive to install, the labor costs are lower, and they can be more energy efficient. But, a ducted system might be worth the investment if you run it more frequently.

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