As temperatures in Delhi-NCR soar, air conditioners are working overtime to provide relief from the intense summer heat. However, this increased demand for cooling is bringing to light a growing concern — air conditioner-related fires. Short circuits, overheating, and electrical faults have led to an alarming rise in fire incidents, prompting experts and safety authorities to urge caution.
A Growing Problem: AC Fires in Delhi-NCR
With the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi registering a record high power demand of 7,265 megawatts (MW) on May 19, 2025, the use of air conditioners has reached unprecedented levels. But with this rise in usage comes a surge in fire incidents related to AC units, especially due to faulty wiring and overheating.
Vandit Madan, a marketing associate from Vivek Vihar, shared his terrifying experience when his air conditioner sparked suddenly, filling his home with a strong burning smell. “I was fortunate to be home at the time and quickly turned off the MCB (miniature circuit breaker), preventing a potential fire disaster,” Madan explained. This incident is just one of many that have raised alarms about AC safety in the region.
Recent AC Fire Incidents in Delhi-NCR
Several fire incidents caused by air conditioners have been reported in Delhi-NCR in recent weeks, illustrating the growing risk:
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Ashok Vihar Police Station: Explosion in a split air conditioner unit.
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Krishna Nagar: Fire at an AC repair shop.
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Noida Sector 18: Explosion in an AC compressor caused a fire in an 8-storey building.
According to Delhi Fire Service (DFS), the department has been receiving about 140 fire-related calls daily this May alone, with many involving AC units. Atul Garg, director of DFS, said, “The rise in calls during the summer months, especially those involving air conditioners, is concerning. We’ve found that the most common causes of AC-related fires include decayed internal wiring, dust buildup in outdoor units, and debris accumulation in filters and coils.”
Why AC Fires Happen: Common Causes
The primary causes of AC-related fires can be traced to electrical faults, poor maintenance, and improper installation. Here are some common factors contributing to the issue:
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Decayed or Worn-Out Wiring: Over time, the wires inside an air conditioning unit can degrade, leading to short circuits and overheating. Faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of AC-related fires.
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Buildup of Dust and Debris: Outdoor units and filters often accumulate dirt, dust, and leaves. This not only reduces the AC’s efficiency but can also block airflow, causing the system to overheat and catch fire.
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Lack of Regular Maintenance: Many people overlook regular servicing of their air conditioners. Dirty filters, clogged coils, or malfunctioning compressors can all contribute to increased risk.
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Overloaded Electrical Circuits: Running multiple high-power appliances on the same circuit can cause an overload, leading to overheating and electrical fires.
How to Prevent AC Fires: Expert Tips
Experts advise homeowners to take several simple yet effective precautions to ensure their air conditioners remain safe to use throughout the summer:
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Schedule Regular Maintenance: Get your AC serviced by a professional at least once a year to ensure all parts, including filters, coils, and wiring, are in optimal condition. This will help prevent overheating and other issues that can lead to fires.
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Clean the Filters and Coils: Regularly clean the filters and outdoor unit coils to remove dust and debris. This not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the risk of overheating.
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Check the Wiring: Inspect the internal wiring of your AC unit for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any fraying or damage, have it repaired by a qualified technician immediately.
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Install an MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker): Ensure your AC is connected to an MCB, which will automatically cut off the power supply if there’s an electrical fault, reducing the risk of a fire.
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Monitor for Warning Signs: Pay attention to any strange noises, burning smells, or sparks coming from your air conditioner. If you notice any of these signs, turn off the power immediately and call a technician to inspect the unit.
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Avoid Overloading the Circuit: Don’t overload the electrical circuit by running multiple high-power appliances simultaneously. This can increase the chances of short circuits and fires.
What to Do in Case of an AC Fire
If your air conditioner catches fire or begins to spark, it’s essential to act quickly and calmly:
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Turn off the Power: Immediately switch off the MCB or unplug the unit if safe to do so.
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Evacuate the Area: Leave the room and ensure everyone in the household is safe. If the fire is significant, call emergency services.
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Don’t Try to Extinguish It Yourself: Unless the fire is very small and manageable, do not attempt to put it out yourself. Leave it to the fire department to handle the situation.
Conclusion
As the temperatures continue to rise in Delhi-NCR, the risk of AC-related fires also escalates. By following simple maintenance tips and staying alert to any signs of malfunction, you can keep your family and property safe from such potentially dangerous incidents. Remember, regular checks and proper care of your air conditioner can significantly reduce the chances of fire accidents.
Stay safe this summer, and keep your air conditioners in top condition to enjoy a cool and worry-free season.
