As homeowners, and users of HVAC systems, including air conditioning systems, it is alarming to look at data from the National Fire Protection Association, which indicates 7400 air conditioner fires reported across the United States during 2010, associated to faulty HVACs and related equipment. That’s about as many sparks as lightning strikes in a storm! These unfortunate incidents were linked to signs of issues with several vital components such as electrical malfunctions that sparked overheating, improper wiring, and furnace related issues.
One common problem lay with the short circuit breaker, a crucial item in the HVAC installation including air conditioners. If not correctly installed by a certified technician, this breaker may not perform in the right way, leading to such unanticipated disasters like an air conditioner fire inside a house. Makes one wonder, “Was your unit one of them?”
The improper connections, appliances, and even an extension cord can all attribute to this unfortunate series of events which led to 29 heartbreaking deaths, hundreds of injuries, and inflicted over 200 million dollars’ worth of property damage. Weather also plays a role, as nearly half of the AC fires occurred during the warmest months of June, July, and August. This weather caused tremendous heartbreak and turmoil for those involved.
One might ask: were these fires preventable? It’s challenging to confirm, but as experienced technicians who offer professional services like AC maintenance and air duct cleaning, we universally agree that meticulous air conditioning maintenance for your home and proactive measures like checking your air filter, ensuring the airflow and the insulating capacity of your wires, and maintaining smoke detectors, can greatly reduce this risk.
Common Causes of AC Fires
When your HVAC systems, particularly air conditioner units, are not subjected to regular maintenance including cleaning and lubrication, the risk of a fire hazard increases. There are several signs that could lead to this outcome: worn-out filters heavily cluttered with dirt and dust particles resulting in a malfunctioning system, storing flammable items near the HVAC, short circuits in the wiring, or even an ineffective extinguisher.
These sort of sparks can impact your HVAC system, its functionality, and the indoor air quality, thereby negatively affecting people’s health. Let’s delve deeper into these causes and offer more tips to understand how the replacement of faulty parts by a trained technician could provide benefits.
1. Storing flammable materials near the system
Next time you’re around your house, take note that allowing combustible materials such as paper, an accumulation of leaves and other debris, or gasoline too close to your HVAC system poses a risk of catching fire. Keeping these objects at least 3 feet away from the HVAC unit assures proper air flow and ventilation in addition to fire protection.
2. Failing to keep the not cleaned properly
Be it your air conditioner unit or other HVAC appliances, proper cleaning is crucial. Failing this task results in the accumulation of dirt and dust particles in its air vents, filters, coils, and fins obstructing the normal air flow, leading to overheating, and sparking off a fire.
3. Faulty parts and equipment
Ignoring your HVAC system often means overlooking faulty parts and equipment in it. For example, if the air conditioning fan fails without your knowledge, excessive heat may accumulate within the unit, making for dangerously high temperatures, especially if the system’s insulation is poor.
Professional services, like AC maintenance, help avoid these hazards. Regular servicing by experienced technicians helps replace any faulty parts professionally and with original ones, guaranteeing you more years of service. A vital part of this service includes a functional smoke detector installed for advanced warning in dire circumstances.
Procedures for HVAC maintenance by experienced technicians entail ensuring all electrical aspects are in order, detecting any sparks and short circuits, and checking each breaker’s functionality. The benefits of securing regular HVAC maintenance surpass the minor costs you will incur to contract an expert. From enhanced indoor air quality to improved efficiency of your unit and extended HVAC lifespan, regular maintenance is absolutely vital.
Avoid the high cost of AC repairs and potential air conditioner fire hazard with regular maintenance. Our dedicated service includes taking the necessary precautions to safeguard your home and loved ones from needless accidents instigated by neglected HVAC units, specifically air conditioners.
A true expert knows how to thoroughly clean the system, check for parts that need repairs, uncover potential problems that could spark catastrophes in the future, and repair any damages to your system with original parts. Their skill set also includes examining the wiring system for any faults or possible issues. When in the process of hiring an HVAC professional, remember to be careful about falling into the trap of sales gimmicks. Prioritize choosing a professional who is reputable, fits within your budget, and is available for emergencies.
The rewards of securing regular HVAC maintenance surpasses the minor costs you will incur to contract an expert. From enhanced indoor air quality that saves your family from developing various health issues, to the improved efficiency of your unit saving you a great deal off of utility bills, regular HVAC maintenance is absolutely vital. Regular maintenance also saves you from incurring hefty costly repairs, extends the life of all your HVAC appliances, and assists in preemptive detection and extinguishing of fires.
Avoid the high cost of AC repairs and potential air conditioner fire hazard with regular maintenance. Get in touch with your Las Vegas and Henderson HVAC experts today at (702) 567-0707 and ask about our maintenance plans. Our dedicated service includes taking the necessary precautions to safeguard your home and beloved ones from needless accidents instigated by neglected HVAC units, specifically air conditioners.
