Common Potential Fire Hazards Associated with HVAC Systems
26 May 2021Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been very useful in regulating the overall condition of properties. These systems can effectively maintain proper ventilation of rooms and spaces. They can also provide hot or cold temperatures once the outdoor temperature changes.
All the appliances and components that are connected to the HVAC systems operate according to their intended functions. Some of them process the air before sending it into rooms and spaces. Others, alternatively, take care of filtration and ventilation of the air. But even though these HVAC system components are mostly developed with the utmost care, a handful of elements can still affect their performance. Worse, these elements can damage the HVAC system and cause potential fire hazards.
Some of the most common potential fire hazards that are associated with HVAC systems are as follows:
Leaks on Fuel Lines
One potential fire hazard that is associated with HVAC system units is the presence of leaky fuel lines. Without conducting proper maintenance and regular inspection, the fuel lines may gradually develop some damages, providing fuel with a way out of the said lines. As the fuel crawls out of its intended line, it may eventually come into contact with hot HVAC system units, which then results in a huge fire. One notable sign that the fuel has already leaked is the existence of gas or oil odour on the system. Once the said odour has been identified, property owners should call for professionals right away.
Adjoining Materials
Another potential fire hazard that is connected to the HVAC system is the existence of materials around it. Some HVAC system units are installed in storage closets, garages, and other areas that are often out of the way. These places, however, can still be accessed anytime so that the units can still be managed effectively. The only problem with these places in some properties is that they are often filled with things that somehow restrict the units’ airflow. As the temperature of the units increases, they may cause nearby flammable products to ignite, which can destroy not only the system but also the property.
Electrical Problems
Most HVAC systems today are still run by electricity. Hence, they are expected to rely heavily on electrical connections just to power everything up. For optimum operations of these systems, they must be inspected regularly. Skipping inspections, alternatively, might only create some problems as some of these connections are somehow loose and old already. As more power is exerted towards the loose wires, the wires will subsequently get burnt. The continuous burning of wires may, unfortunately, start a fire on the HVAC systems and spread to nearby property structures.
Damaged Component
One more potential fire hazard that is associated with the HVAC system may come from damaged components, especially with the heat exchanger. Heat exchangers that are damaged often result in the leakage of carbon monoxide. This specific gas can be very harmful to humans and the surroundings. As the level of carbon monoxide increases, it may soon cause a fire, inflict damages to the property, and cost lives. Seeking professional help must be done once the heat exchanger obtains damages.
If you need ample protection for your HVAC systems, just give us a call at Split Ezy Pro.
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