It’s almost summer, and nearly every household’s air conditioners (ACs) are set to be turned on after months of inactivity. However, a recent air conditioning blast incident in Delhi has generated significant safety concerns. A tragic accident at an AC repair shop in the Krishna Nagar area claimed the life of a man, underscoring the dangers of electrical problems and poor maintenance.
Before turning on your unit, take precautions and learn why AC explosions occur to avoid such risks.
What happened during the deadly AC blast in Delhi?
A guy named Mohan Lal died in a shocking AC explosion that happened at an AC repair shop in Krishna Nagar, Delhi. CCTV captured the entire incident and the footage is currently trending on social media.
Since this type of incident has been reported before, it is essential to comprehend the causes and prevention actions for AC blasts, which happened in the previous summer.
Why Do AC Blasts Happen? Common Causes Explained
Air conditioner (AC) explosions are rare but can occur due to several technical and environmental factors. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Overheating & Poor Maintenance: Lack of regular cleaning can lead to dust buildup, which blocks airflow and causes overheating. Over time, this strain on the system can lead to short circuits or fire hazards.
- Faulty Wiring & Electrical Issues: Loose connections, outdated wiring, or voltage fluctuations can cause sparks, leading to a fire or even an explosion in extreme cases.
- Gas Leakage from Refrigerants: AC units use refrigerant gases (like R-22 or R-410A). If there’s a leak and the gas comes in contact with a spark, it can ignite and cause an explosion.
- Blocked or Dirty Filters & Coils: Clogged filters or condenser coils force the AC to work harder, which may cause overheating or compressor failure, increasing the fire risk.
- Overuse & Lack of Ventilation: Running the AC continuously without breaks can overheat the compressor, leading to a mechanical failure or explosion.
- Poor Quality or Counterfeit AC Units: Substandard or cheaply manufactured AC units may have poor-quality components that cannot handle high electrical loads, increasing the risk of blasts.
How to Prevent AC Blasts? Essential Safety Tips for Summer
Air conditioners become necessary as temperatures soar, but improper use can lead to dangerous incidents like AC blasts. To ensure safety, follow these essential precautions before using your air conditioner this summer:
1. Regular Maintenance & Servicing
Schedule routine check-ups with a professional technician to clean filters, check wiring, and inspect gas levels. Dust buildup or faulty wiring can increase the risk of electrical malfunctions.
2. Use the Right Power Supply
Ensure your AC is connected to a stable power source with the correct voltage. An incorrect or fluctuating power supply can cause overheating and potential short circuits.
3. Avoid Overloading Circuits
Never plug too many high-power appliances into the same circuit as your AC. Overloading can cause sparks, leading to electrical fires or explosions.
4. Check for Gas Leaks
Refrigerant leaks (such as R-22 or R-410A) can be hazardous. If you notice an unusual smell or reduced cooling efficiency, get it checked immediately.
5. Keep the Area Around the AC Unit Clear
Ensure there’s proper ventilation around both the indoor and outdoor units. Blocking airflow can cause overheating and pressure buildup, increasing the chances of a blast.
6. Avoid Using Extension Cords
Plug your AC directly into a wall socket instead of using extension cords, which may not handle the power load efficiently, increasing fire hazards.
7. Turn Off the AC When Not in Use
Leaving your AC running continuously can cause overheating. Switch it off when leaving the room for long periods.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable summer while keeping yourself and your home safe from AC-related accidents. Stay calm and stay safe!
