In India’s intense summer heat, your air-conditioner works overtime especially during May-June. But what most people don’t realize is that overheating ACs can cause electrical fires, especially if ignored.
While rare, Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai fire departments report dozens of fire incidents each summer triggered by AC short circuits, compressor burnout, or poor installation.
Whether you have a window unit or a split AC, here are 10 ways to prevent overheating and keep your cooling safe, efficient, and long-lasting.
1. Clean or Replace AC Filters Every Month During Peak Summer
Blocked filters force your AC to push harder, trapping heat inside and making the compressor overwork a major overheating risk.
What to do:
- Wash or replace filters every 3-4 weeks (especially in dusty cities like Delhi, Jaipur, or Nagpur)
- Don’t ignore bad smell or reduced cooling often a filter issue
2. Keep AC Outdoor Units in Shade and Allow Ventilation
Split ACs have an outdoor unit that can get dangerously hot in direct sun or enclosed balconies. Window ACs also need proper rear ventilation.
Fixes:
- Don’t place outdoor unit in closed cabinets or cover it with thick grills
- Use a louver or sunshade to shield from direct sun without blocking airflow
- Keep a 1-2 ft clearance around outdoor units
3. Never Skip Annual AC Servicing Especially Before Summer
Dust and grime clog the coils and fans, making the unit retain heat especially dangerous for older models.
Best time for servicing:
- Pre-summer: February to March
- Post-monsoon: To avoid moisture buildup
- Check indoor and outdoor units both
4. Use a Stabilizer or Surge Protector to Handle Voltage Swings
Power fluctuations are common in Indian cities and towns they strain the motor and can cause instant burnout.
What to install:
- AC-specific stabilizer (preferably with thermal overload protection)
- Surge protector if you live in lightning-prone or high-rise buildings
5. Don’t Run Your AC Non-Stop for Hours Without a Break
During hot nights or WFH summers, people run ACs 10-12 hours straight. This causes thermal stress and internal heating.
Smart habits:
- Use auto-off timers or sleep mode
- Let the unit rest for 15-20 minutes every few hours
6. Get Proper Wiring No Cheap Extension Cords or Shared Circuits
Old homes often plug ACs into sockets meant for fans or TVs. That causes wiring to heat up and may spark or trip.
Safe electrical setup:
- Use a dedicated 15-20 Amp MCB-protected circuit
- Avoid plugging ACs into extension cords or shared kitchen sockets
7. Never Block or Cover the Outdoor AC Unit
People often cover their ACs with plastic, cloth, or decorative grills especially in balconies or shared apartments.
Problem:
- Heat gets trapped inside
- Fan airflow is blocked
- Compressor runs under pressure and overheats
Solution:
- Leave outdoor unit sides and top clear
- Use open-pattern grills only, if needed for safety
8. Use the Right AC Tonnage for Your Room
If your AC is too small for the room size, it works constantly and overheats.
Guideline (standard conditions):
- 1 Ton – up to 120 sq. ft
- 1.5 Ton – 130-180 sq. ft
- 2 Ton – 180-250 sq. ft
- Add +0.5 Ton for west-facing or sun-exposed rooms
9. Keep Airflow Paths Clear Inside the Room
Don’t block indoor units with curtains, wardrobes, or wall shelves.
Why it matters:
- Obstructed airflow = poor circulation = harder working compressor
- Blocked louvers also reduce cooling
- Leave at least 3-4 feet clearance in front of indoor AC
- Regularly clean vents and ensure louvers move freely
10. Watch for Early Warning Signs of AC Overheating
Your AC gives subtle signs before overheating becomes a fire risk:
Watch out for:
- Burning smell or plastic odor
- Frequent tripping of MCB or stabilizer
- Unusual humming, rattling, or irregular cooling cycles
- Outdoor unit running too hot to touch
Solution:
- Switch off immediately
- Call a brand-certified service technician don’t restart until checked
AC Fire Risk Is Real But Preventable with These Simple Habits
Whether you use a window AC in a rental flat or a split AC in your own home, overheating is mostly caused by neglect or bad installation not bad luck.
- Clean your filters
- Install a stabilizer
- Let your AC rest
- Don’t block its breathing space
If you treat your AC like a machine that needs care and maintenance, not just cold air it will last longer, and cool better.
