It is possible to run an air conditioner without a filter, but it is not recommended. Doing so for more than 6 to 8 hours can cause serious damage to the system and reduce the quality of your home's indoor air. The air filter is essential for keeping the air conditioner free of dust and dirt, and it also helps to maintain the quality of the air in your home. If you don't have a replacement filter on hand, wait until you do before running your system without one.
In some cases, you may need to run your air conditioner without a filter for a short period of time. If this is the case, consider the current air quality and environment before doing so. It may be possible to operate your unfiltered air conditioner safely overnight or until the next day when stores reopen. However, running it for more than a day without a filter could cause damage that requires immediate repair.
It is important to regularly maintain your air conditioning filter to ensure that it is clean and efficient. This will help to prevent air contaminants from entering the system and clogging the condensation drain. If you use disposable filters, make sure to buy and install a replacement filter of the exact size. Some homeowners can clean or replace their air conditioning filters themselves, but it is always best to call an HVAC professional if you are unsure of how to do so.
Never try to run your system without a filter as this can be hazardous to both the health of the air conditioner and the quality of your home's indoor air.