Household Air Conditioner Safety

July 27, 2017

Air conditioners are a staple for many American households during the warmer summer months.  If not properly maintained, air conditioning units can present a fire hazard.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, air conditioners were involved in an annual average of 2,800 reported home structure fires and $82 million direct property damage.

ABC News reports that air conditioners can catch nearby combustibles on fire if they experience electrical issues or are overworked / overheated.  The good news is that you can follow some simple tips to reduce your risk of fire when using an air conditioner:

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  • Check that the air filter is clean and change it if necessary.
  • Ensure adequate power supply to the unit.
  • Avoid using extension cords or power strips.
  • Keep the space around air conditioning units clear, especially of combustible items.
  • Check for product recalls specific to your air conditioner.
  • Have a professional check your air conditioning unit once or twice a year.

For early detection of a fire, check your smoke detectors regularly and replace the batteries every year.


Resources

http://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/fire-statistics-and-reports/fire-statistics/fires-by-property-type/residential/home-structure-fires

http://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/experts-warn-rising-temperatures-turn-air-conditioners-fire/story?id=48176911


This blog entry is created for informational purposes only.  Any viewpoint or sponsorship of outside parties involved in the blog entry does not necessarily represent Goodville's stance as a company.  The blog should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.