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I've got a Hyundai Accent 2005.

Recently, I removed the ac filter because it was too dirty and the air didn't feell well but I couldn't buy it because of work.

I have 6 days without the ac filter and I don't know if it is healthy dangerous because of the dust and all kinds of stuff that can come..

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  • 1
    It's the same as driving with the window open, so no, not dangerous. – Captain Kenpachi Aug 13 '15 at 16:17
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Typically it's just a pollen filter that's more for occupants comfort. In older cars you would very occasionally get a dead bumble bee through a vent but I'd say that six days unfiltered shouldn't cause much of a problem for you.

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Think about the long-term health of the air-conditioning system also.

If the AC is used for long enough sans cabin filter, the fan blower will get clogged up with dirt and dust much faster. This can lead to issues related to low air flow, such as lack of cooling, a frozen evaporator and a frozen expansion valve.

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  • Can you clarify how low air flow causes excessive refrigerant pressure build-up? – Moshe Katz Aug 13 '15 at 20:51
  • @MosheKatz : Good question, no I can't, since high pressures indicate the inability of the system to reject heat, while low blower air flow would hinder the system's ability to absorb heat. I had my refrigeration cycle backwards when I made that comment; have updated the answer since. Thank you for pointing that out. – Zaid Aug 14 '15 at 6:33
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In itself for the short term I would say that there are no health risks

However....

Over an extended period of time there will be a buildup of organic material within the ventilation system, along with moisture and naturally occurring bacteria you could get a foul odor from your ventilation system.

As well, if your immune system is compromised nocardia bacteria can grow in the HVAC and possibly give you ill-effects regarding health in young children, the elderly and those in poor health.

I would replace the cabin filter.

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