Summer HVAC Safety Tips | Air Comfort HVAC


Baby, it’s hot outside! We know your cooling system is getting a lot of use these days and we get it. Air conditioners are essential for keeping your comfort in Georgia and Tennessee, but it’s important to make yourself aware of cooling season safety. Air Comfort HVAC wants to fill you in on the safety tips you need to know.

Here are some facts from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) which may surprise you:

  • Every year, there are thousands of reported home structure fires, hundreds of home fire injuries, and hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage related to air conditioners and fans for summer cooling.

  • In 2011 alone, there were nearly 41,000 injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms involving air conditioners, fans, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air purifiers, and heat pumps.

  • The leading injuries related to air conditioners are laceration, contusion, abrasion, and strains or sprains.

  • Most air conditioner and fan fires happen because of a mechanical or electrical failure.

  • About a third of fires involving air conditioning or fan equipment start with the ignition of wire or cable insulation.

  • You can learn more about the hazards in the Home Fires Involving Air Conditioning or Related Equipment Report.

The chief causes of AC and fan fires are:

  • Heat buildup due to overuse
  • A lack of professional AC maintenance
  • Poor electrical wiring or other electrical issues

You can easily prevent these fires with proper maintenance:

  • You should only hire a qualified and licensed HVAC technician to install and service your heating, ventilation, or air conditioning equipment. This is not a place to cut corners!

  • Always leave a minimum 3-foot clearance around your indoor air handler unit.

  • Ensure all of your supply and return vents are unblocked.

  • Teach your children to keep far away from both your indoor and outdoor air conditioning units. Though the units are protected by covers, it is very dangerous for kids to stick anything through the grills.

  • Always keep the access panels and covers on your indoor air handler, outdoor condenser unit, and thermostat.

  • Have your cooling systems inspected regularly, ideally in the spring and fall.

These simple safety tips will help you avoid a hazardous fire in your home, while remaining cool and comfortable all summer long. Should you need a repair, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Visit our website today to learn more about our maintenance agreements to keep your family happy and safe.