House Fires And Your Air Conditioner: What You Need To Know
When you own a home, one of your largest fears may be the possibility of a house fire. As the weather begins to cool and you are not using your air conditioner as often, you may not put your AC system and a house fire in the same category. However, if you do not keep your air conditioning system maintained year-round, you could increase your chances of a house fire. Here are some things you should know.
What Causes an Air Conditioner to Catch Fire?
Several things can cause a fire in your air conditioner. The buildup of dust and debris is one major component. You should make sure the air vents, coils, and fans are cleaned regularly. These components quickly build dust throughout the year and could foster the ignition of a fire.
If you begin to hear or see any changes in the system during the year, make sure to have it serviced professionally. When parts start to malfunction, they can overheat and potentially catch fire. The overheating can impact the heating pipes as well. Doing bi-annual maintenance will significantly decrease the chance of a fire stemming from the air conditioning system.
How Does Routine Maintenance Factor into an Air Conditioner Fire?
If you leave highly flammable debris inside an air conditioner for a long period of time, the air cannot flow through the system. When flammable items stay inside such a complex system of wiring, heating, cooling, and electricity, it is a haven for the possibility of a fire. The system can fail at any time and become a hazard. Routine maintenance is essential to prevent this from becoming a reality.
Why Should You Have the System Professionally Inspected?
Many homeowners overlook routine maintenance on an air conditioning system. Because of the importance of routine maintenance, try to schedule regular inspections with your HVAC contractor. Your contractor will clean the system and remove any debris and dust. The contractor will also prepare the system for the upcoming season so it is ready to operate when necessary. This time of year, professional inspections are a must when you are ready to light the pilot light for your furnace.
The inspection will include a look at the parts to see if anything needs to be repaired or replaced. If your contractor can immediately notice the potential of a fire, they will let you know and take care of the problem right away. Ideally, you should schedule regular inspections well in advance in the change of seasons so you do not accidentally overlook your maintenance.
To learn more, contact a residential AC service in your area.
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