Preventing AC-related fires this summer

As temperatures soar across Delhi and much of north India, air-conditioners (AC) are being used continuously for long periods. The prolonged use, poor maintenance, and an unstable electricity supply can turn cooling appliances into a fire hazard, say experts.

According to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS), nearly 60% of fire incidents in the city are linked to electrical faults. These include short-circuits, overheating, overloading, and the use of poor-quality electrical equipment.

Voltage fluctuation

A DFS official attributed many such cases to voltage fluctuation, and increased usage of air-conditioners during summers contributes to such mishaps. “The high temperatures cause wires and appliances to overheat and fail. With air conditioners running nonstop, power generators are pushed beyond capacity, triggering frequent short circuits.”

One of the biggest reasons for air-conditioning units catching fire is overheating. During peak summer, many households run air-conditioners continuously for hours on end. This puts enormous pressure on the compressor, which is the heart of the cooling system. If the unit does not get enough time to cool down, internal temperatures can rise dangerously, increasing the risk of fire or even an explosion.

Giving periodic breaks

To prevent any such unfortunate incident, users should avoid running an air-conditioner endlessly through the day and night. Giving the compressor periodic breaks can significantly reduce overheating risks. Smart timers and intelligent air-conditioning controllers can also help manage usage better.

Another major cause is electrical short-circuiting. When current flows through a circuit for a long time, it generates intense heat. In severe cases, wires can melt and spark a fire. Normally, miniature circuit breakers are designed to trip automatically when the load becomes unsafe. However, if the MCB itself is faulty, safety mechanisms can fail completely.

Surge protectors

Sudden spikes or drops in the power supply can damage compressors and sensitive electrical components inside the appliance. In cities where voltage instability is common during the summer, experts recommend using stabilisers, surge protectors, or inverter-based air-conditioning systems.

Refrigerant gas leakage can also become dangerous. If cooling gas escapes from damaged pipes or faulty components, the unit loses cooling efficiency and is forced to work harder. That extra strain can overheat the system. Warning signs include hissing sounds, weak airflow, warm air coming from vents, and excessive ice formation on the evaporator coils.

Blocked air filters are another overlooked hazard. Dust and dirt buildup can restrict airflow, forcing the internal machinery to work harder to pull air through the system. This causes a sharp rise in the operating temperature and increases the possibility of an internal electrical failure.

Dangers of poor maintenance

Poor maintenance and ageing wiring further worsen the risk. Over time, insulation around wires can crack, connections may loosen, and electrical joints can deteriorate. When old wiring is forced to handle the heavy current drawn by an air-conditioner, the chances of a short-circuit rise sharply.

According to Kelvinator, a manufacturer of air-conditioners and other cooling units, power fluctuations occur due to sudden voltage spikes. “Air conditioner voltage fluctuation occurs when the electrical supply to your AC unit rises or drops beyond the standard voltage range. These rapid changes can strain the compressor, circuit boards, and other internal components. Over time, repeated fluctuations can shorten the lifespan of the unit and reduce the cooling efficiency,” reads the manufacturer’s website.

There are usually warning signs before a serious malfunction happens.

Users should watch out for unusual noises, repeated on-and-off cycling, uneven cooling, burning smells, and smoke coming from the unit. These signs should not be ignored and require an immediate inspection by a trained technician.