Summer Air Conditioner and Fan Safety

As temperatures rise, so does our dependence on air conditioners and fans. While air
conditioners and fans are essential for staying cool and comfortable in summer, there are
also many potential hazards to be aware of. You may be surprised to find out how
many home fires are caused by air conditioning and fan equipment.
Normally, air conditioner and fan fires occur due to a mechanical or electrical failure. About
one third of fires involving air conditioning or fan equipment began with ignition of wire or
cable insulation.

Top 3 Causes of Air Conditioner and Fan Fires

 Overuse, which causes heat buildup
 Improper or lack of professional AC maintenance
 Poor electrical wiring and electrical issues
Luckily, air conditioning and fan fires can be prevented with the proper maintenance.

Central AC Safety Tips

 Always hire a qualified, licensed HVAC technician to install and service any heating,
ventilation, or air conditioning equipment.
 Make sure any HVAC equipment has been tested by an independent, nationally
recognized testing laboratory.
 Do not store anything near your indoor air handler unit. There should be a minimum
3-foot clearance around the unit.
 Make sure all of your supply and return vents are unblocked. Check behind furniture
and drapes.
 Teach children to stay far away from your indoor and outdoor air conditioning units.
While the units are protected by covers, it can be very dangerous and damaging if
anyone tries to stick anything through the grills.
 Keep the access panels and covers on at all times. This applies to your indoor air
handler, outdoor condenser unit, as well as the thermostat.
  Inspect and maintain AC equipment regularly, ideally before you start using it full-
time.

Schedule Annual Professional AC Maintenance

Air conditioning units need to be properly maintained by a professional. The best thing you
can do to keep your air conditioner working safely and efficiently is by scheduling annual
air conditioning maintenance every spring.
Professional HVAC technicians will be able to inspect your cooling system for safety
issues that could result in a fire. In addition to preventing electrical problems, your certified
HVAC technician will also clean your system and make sure there are no carbon
monoxide or refrigerant leaks.

Window AC Safety Tips

If you use a window air conditioning unit, here are some tips to make sure it is installed
properly:
 When selecting equipment, make sure it is rated for the size of the space you want
to cool. Make sure the unit has been tested by a recognized, independent testing
laboratory.
 Do not plug your air conditioner into an extension cord or power strip. Your window
unit should have its own dedicated outlet.
 Never position window units near water or where water is likely to be spilled.
 Clean or replace AC filters according to manufacturer instructions.
 Periodically inspect cords for damage, fraying, loose connections, and broken plugs.
If you notice any damage, turn the unit off, unplug it, and replace the damage
equipment.
 Make sure the window and window frame are secure and in good condition.
 Never attempt to install a window AC unit on your own. If possible, have a
professional install your window unit.
 Follow manufacturer instructions carefully when installing the window unit. There
should be metal brackets, mounting rails, or some sort of firm support system. If the
 unit does not fit properly, do not try to jerry-rig it with additional materials, such as
wooden blocks.
 Never put anything on top of the window unit, such as flower pots or bird feeders.
 It’s a good idea to tilt the unit slightly for drainage, but make sure it’s not a steep
angle.
 Do not use window units in windows that serve as a fire escape.
 It may seem obvious, but do not allow any pets or children to drink the water that
drips from the back of the window air conditioner.
 Make sure the unit is off before pulling the plug from the socket.
 As with installation, never attempt to remove a window unit by yourself. Working
alone is never recommended.
 FYI, window AC units cause more fires than central units. If you’re still relying on
window units, speak with a professional HVAC technician about making the switch.

Fan Safety Tips

 Only purchase fans that have been tested by a recognized, independent testing
laboratory.
 Follow manufacturer instructions when placing or installing fans. If possible, hire a
professional to install built-in or stationary fans.
 Double check that air intakes are not blocked.
 Always follow manufacturer instructions.
 Keep fans away from water or water may be spilled.
 Never plug fans into an extension cord. Plug fans directly into outlets with sufficient
electrical capacity.
 Periodically inspect cords for damage, fraying, broken plugs, and loose connections.
Replace any damaged equipment before use.
HVAC Maintenance Checklist for a Healthy HVAC System
You would never drive your car for a hundred thousand miles without changing the oil. The
same rationale stands true when it comes to the HVAC system of your home. HVAC
maintenance is the best and the most logical way to ensure a healthy HVAC system that
runs at peak performance. Pre-season maintenance helps in avoiding unexpected system
failures even during harsh weather conditions. Your technician must ensure the following
check while servicing the air-conditioning system.

Air Conditioning Tune-up, and Safety Inspection

 Blower Motor – measure amperage and voltage for proper operation
 Thermostat – test for proper operation, calibrate and level
 Clean existing air filter (as needed)
 Bearing – inspect for wear and lubricate
 Inspect indoor coil
 Condensate Drain – flush and treat with anti-algae
 Inspect Condenser Coil
 Refrigerant – monitor operating pressures
 Safety Devices – inspect for proper operation
 Electrical Disconnect Box – inspect for proper rating and safe installation
 Electrical Wiring – inspect and tighten connections
 Test/inspect contactors for burned, pitted contacts
 Inspect electrical for exposed wiring
 Inspect and test capacitors
 Inspect fan blade
 Clean condenser coil and remove debris
 Inspect service valves for proper operation
 Measure Supply/Return temperature differential
 Compressor – monitor, measure amperage and volt draw
 Inspect wiring connections for the compressor