Air Conditioner Fires Surge in Gyeongnam Province from June... "Join Us in Fire Prevention"

Most issues are due to poor wire contact or damage; free air conditioner inspection in May

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Saeyan] An analysis of air conditioning equipment fire statistics in Gyeongnam Province over the past five years shows that fires have surged since May.

According to the statistics, a total of 97 fires involving air conditioning equipment occurred from 2016 to 2020. The casualties included 2 deaths and 1 injury, and property damage amounted to 402 million KRW.

Among these, fires caused by air conditioners accounted for 60 cases, representing 61.85% of the total, with air conditioner usage increasing every year.

According to a survey on the distribution status of household appliances published by the Korea Electric Power Exchange, air conditioners have a high distribution rate of 0.97 units per household, and their distribution is increasing annually due to rising income and living standards.

Additionally, air conditioners have the highest annual electricity consumption per unit, making their fire risk significantly higher compared to other household appliances and cooling devices (such as fans).

The main causes of fires were electrical factors such as poor contact or wire damage with 39 cases (65%), mechanical factors such as aging with 12 cases (20%), and negligence including leaving combustible materials unattended (including unknown causes) with 9 cases (15%).

Therefore, air conditioner fire safety inspections should be conducted as follows starting in May, when the heat intensifies.

Outdoor air conditioner units are exposed to moisture, dust, and external heat, increasing the risk of fire.

When initially installing the outdoor unit, select a location that is easy to clean and inspect and has good ventilation, keeping at least 10 cm distance from walls to prevent heat accumulation.

Also, before use, remove dust, moisture, and other contaminants from the wire connection parts of the outdoor unit. Contaminants on wire connections can cause carbonization, heat, and sparks due to electric current, potentially leading to fire.

For indoor air conditioners, set timers, turn off power to cool overheated machines, and unplug the unit. Use dedicated high-capacity single outlets and avoid using multi-plug adapters.

It is also necessary to utilize support measures for preventing air conditioner fires. The Korea Consumer Agency and major air conditioner manufacturers are conducting a pre-safety inspection campaign for air conditioners until the 31st of this month.

Inspection reservations can be made through each manufacturer’s website or main phone number, and professional technicians will visit homes free of charge to inspect the exterior and equipment.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.