Safety measures to follow to avoid AC blasts and subsequent fires at home |

A chilling incident unfolded on the morning of May 30, 2024, when residents of Lotus Boulevard society in Noida’s Sector 100 were startled by an explosion. The cause: a split air conditioner unit that detonated, leading to a fire within an apartment. Thick black smoke billowed from the building, a sight that quickly became the talk of the town as the video circulated on social media.
The fire, which erupted due to the AC blast, was a stark reminder of the latent dangers lurking in household appliances.Fortunately, the quick activation of the society’s firefighting systems, including sprinklers and extinguishers, contained the blaze to one room, and no injuries were reported4. The incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Sector 39 police station, and the fire department’s prompt response with five fire tenders ensured the fire was doused without major damage to the structure.

This event brings to light the importance of air conditioner maintenance and safety. Air conditioners, while providing relief from the heat, can become hazardous if not properly cared for. To prevent such mishaps, here are some safety measures every AC owner should consider:
Regular maintenance: Ensure your AC unit is serviced regularly by a qualified technician. This includes checking for refrigerant leaks, ensuring electrical components are functioning correctly, and cleaning or replacing filters. Also, it is suggested that after running the AC for 600 hours, a detailed servicing of AC by a certified personal is very important.
Proper installation: Incorrect installation can lead to electrical issues and potential hazards. Always have your AC installed by a professional to ensure it meets safety standards.
Ventilation: Good ventilation helps prevent overheating. Make sure the area around your AC unit is clear of obstructions to allow for proper airflow.
Inspect wiring: Over time, wiring can deteriorate. Inspect your AC’s wiring periodically for any signs of wear and tear, and replace if necessary.
Use quality components: Always use quality electrical components and avoid cheap substitutes. This includes power sockets, plugs, and circuit breakers.
Educate yourself: Understand the basic workings of your AC and be aware of the signs that indicate a problem, such as unusual noises, smells, or leaks. Do not sprinkle water over your AC and do not keep it running 24/7.
Give your AC breaks: A constantly running AC is bound to get overheated and explode especially with the abnormally high temperatures outside. Give your AC breaks when using it and let it take a breather. Also, when heading off to sleep set a temperature and a timer so that the AC is not left running on its own. As per experts, amidst extreme heat, window ACs should be switched off for 5-7 minutes after every 2 hours of use.
Fire safety equipment: Equip your home with fire safety equipment like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and ensure everyone in the household knows how to use them.
The incident at Lotus Boulevard society is a cautionary tale. While the residents were fortunate to escape unharmed, it is a wake-up call to take air conditioner safety seriously. By following these measures, you can enjoy the cool comfort of your AC without the worry of potential hazards. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to fire safety. Stay cool, stay safe.