How Your Air Conditioner May Cause a House Fire

A fire in your home can strike unexpectedly, quickly causing destruction if it is not taken care of soon enough. Fire safety and preparedness is crucial, and part of that includes being aware of all of the potential ways that a fire could start in your home. One of these risks, which may be alarming, is your air conditioning unit. If proper maintenance and repairs are not completed, the unit could become a potential fire hazard. Here are some things to be aware of as a homeowner, and ways to avoid fire damage caused by your air conditioner.

In Tuscaloosa, we have hot, humid summers, which means that we run our air conditioning practically 24/7. This is usually not a problem, unless you are not giving your air conditioning unit the proper upkeep that it needs. It is one of your most frequently used and hardest working appliances, which means that it could break down temporarily due to overuse. But a breakdown is benign compared to a fire, which is why it is advisable to inspect the unit for any small issues before they become larger risks.

Many of your appliances require routine maintenance to keep them in top shape and stay ahead of potential disaster. Your air conditioning unit is no different – especially when a lack of maintenance can result in a fire. You want a certified technician who can examine the unit to ensure there is no faulty wiring, which is a huge fire hazard, and to make sure your filters are clean. A dirty filter pushes your appliance even harder as it has to somehow get air through clogged openings. Eventually, this overuse can lead to a fire.

On July 9, 2018, WBRC Fox 6 News reported an air conditioning firethat completely burned someone’s mobile home to the ground in Tuscaloosa. Both of the residents made it out and there were no injuries, but the condition of the home was described as a “total loss.” A neighbor commented that an air conditioning fire was not something they realized they needed to worry about. The fire and rescue teams on the scene advised that, along with the precautions listed above, a certified technician should inspect an air conditioner’s coils. If they are dirty or too old, the chance of a fire increases.

At Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa, we always want you to be informed about the potential risks to your home. Air conditioning fires are more common than you think, and it is best to take the proper prevention steps when possible. If you experience property damage of any kind, call us at 205-632-722 2. We serve Tuscaloosa and the surrounding communities.