As most of the country struggles with record-breaking low
temperatures and wintry weather conditions, it might seem premature to discuss
the health of your air conditioner. However, far away as it seems, summer will
be here again before we know it and it never hurts to be prepared.
Linked to a number of deaths, triple-figure injuries and
hundreds of millions in property damage, fires caused by air conditioners (ACs)
are more common than previously thought. In 2010 alone, roughly 7,400 fires
were the result of the operation of faulty air conditioning systems.
According to experts, window air conditioning units are
often the culprit of these fires, with some studies suggesting that they are
1.8 times more likely to cause a house fire than their central AC unit
counterparts.
According to research, these AC unit fires can be caused by
some of the following:
Maintenance/Cleaning
Without regular maintenance, an air conditioning system
risks catching fire, typically in instances where filters are worn out or
accumulate dust and dirt particles. Dirt and particles can also collect on
vital parts such as air vents, coils and fins, obstructing air flow and
resulting in catastrophe.
Likewise, overworking a system that isn’t maintained can
also result in strain to the electrical system.
Size
Hooking up an air conditioning window unit to an
outlet that may not be able to handle the capacity can also lead to fire.
Often, people try to plug AC units into outlets incapable of handling that
amount of power. To avoid this issue, match the AC unit’s amperage with the
appropriate size electrical wiring.
Another shortcut that can prove destructive is altering a
new unit to fit an old outlet. Most AC units are equipped with a third prong
meant to ground the appliance. Removing that third prong to fit the plug into
an old outlet can ultimately lead to fire.
A good rule of thumb is to avoid overloading electrical
outlets, particularly during the months when the units are in constant use,
namely in June, July and August (which are consequently the months when most AC
unit fires occur). This scenario has fast become one of the leading causes of
electrical fires.
Flammables
Cluttering the areas around air conditioning units (both window
and central units) can invite certain dangers. Chief among them is fire.
Allowing materials such as paper, leaves and debris to accumulate nearby can
result in potential destruction. A good rule of thumb according to experts is
to keep areas surrounding air conditioning units clear on all sides (at least
three feet).
Equipment and Parts
When vital parts of the unit begin to malfunction, consumers
need to contact a professional. Parts, such as fans that start to degrade, may
pave the way for the accumulation of heat within the AC. Those rising
temperatures could potentially ignite nearby areas.
Faulty Wiring
When getting ready for warmer temperatures and preparing to
set up your AC unit for the season, make sure to thoroughly check wires for
nicks or wearing. You want to make sure that the wire is completely intact to
prevent any issues with the appliance catching fire. That means avoid using AC
units that have wire damage patched up with electrical tape. Moisture that
manages to get around the tape will likely cause an electrical surge.
Experts also discourage using air conditioners with
extension cords or surge protectors, and also warn against running window unit
wires under any kind of carpeting, rugs or through walls and doorways.
Installation
If you are preparing to install an air conditioning unit,
consider opting for professional installation instead. A professional will know
what to look for in terms of how the appliance should be set up to avoid
hazards.
Professionals will know details about the installation
process, such as the fact that window units should be installed leaning
slightly outside to prevent issues such as rain and water from collecting and
dripping down onto electrical parts.
Ultimately, to keep your air conditioning unit in safe working
order, experts recommend maintenance at least once a year, and, of course, to
make sure that your batteries are up to date in all of your home’s smoke
detectors.Reference site in Canada visit www.airconditionercanada.com /
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