Fire incidents in closed spaces may develop into disasters if they are not dealt with quickly and effectively, especially if the rates of material and human losses increase. Among the most prominent reasons that may cause a fire to break out in a closed space are those resulting from the exposure of an electrical appliance to ignition. For a reason related to an error in the primary operating source: electricity.
Among these devices spread in residential and official business spaces are single-unit split air conditioners, which may be a source of danger more than others. Because it contains a pressure unit to distribute Freon gas, which is responsible for cooling, it poses a great danger if it is exposed to fire or intense sparks that cause it to explode. In our next report, we will discuss the most important reasons that may make air conditioners a source of fires in closed places and how to pay attention to them and deal with them.
Based on official statistics, particularly the data on fire causes published by the American Fire and Fire Administration website, it is revealed that approximately 47% of all home fires can be attributed to air conditioners igniting and exploding. Similarly, the Fire and Emergency Council in Singapore has reported that home air conditioners account for a significant proportion of fire incidents, ranging from 40% to 60%. These statistics underscore the importance of addressing the primary causes of air conditioner fires and emphasizing the need for vigilance in preventing such incidents.
Neglecting to clean the air conditioner is dangerous
Among the reasons that may cause damage to the air conditioner is neglecting to clean the device externally and internally periodically, especially in places near sand and dense dust. The important parts to clean are the internal air filters and internal air blades, and for the external device, cleaning the main fan and air duct filters is important.
If dust and impurities accumulate inside the air ducts of the device, it will become clogged, and then one of its other parts may stop working and cause the electrical connection to fail, which is the beginning of the danger of ignition. The basic advice is to work on cleaning the device periodically, every period not exceeding 4 weeks.
Energy imbalance fires: sudden increase or decrease
One of the most prominent causes of air conditioners burning is a disturbance in the flow of electrical current coming from the main source to the air conditioner unit. These disturbances are usually either low or high, something that may occur automatically from the source, and may pose a risk of internal components burning or malfunctioning. This is why it is important to Make sure that all cables connecting the air conditioner are strong and in good condition.
Consult an electrician to find out how much power the air conditioner is running on and how much power is coming from the source. Make sure that there is a safety “breaker” switch connected between the air conditioner and the main source. Its main function is that when the main power goes out, it usually returns with great power, and this surge may cause The air conditioner burn out, but the safety switch usually only shuts off the power to the air conditioner, and then you can turn it on minutes after the power returns.
You must also pay attention, if you have a backup power source such as generators that operate automatically when the power goes out and stop automatically when it returns, to maintain the backup generator circuit, which is important because if it fails, for example when the power returns, there will be two currents going to the air conditioner; This may cause it to catch fire or explode due to excess energy.
General advice about air conditioners
– If the outdoor air conditioner unit is near a roof or ground, avoid storing any chemicals; Such as paint, cleaning fluids, or any flammable liquids near the unit and keep it in a safe space.
– Avoid independent technicians when maintaining and installing the air conditioner or if you are changing one of its components, and always rely on the official maintenance of the air conditioner manufacturer, as unapproved parts and spare parts and incorrect installation may lead to damage and combustion of the device.
– Do not operate the air conditioner for long periods and do not set it at a temperature below 24 degrees Celsius for long periods at a high external temperature to avoid the reflux of moisture liquids into the device.
– Always seek the help of an electrician or air conditioning specialist to inspect the device or in the event of changing the main or subsidiary connections in the home or office.
