Air Conditioning Maintenance

July is a scorcher, as Middle Tennessee residents will readily testify.  In a press release from the Secretary General of the United Nations in 2019, he stated, “According to the very latest data from the World Meteorological Organization and its climate centre– – the month of July at least equaled if not surpassed the hottest month in recorded history…

All of this means we are on track for the period from 2015 to 2019 to be the five hottest years on record.”

Air conditioning is a welcome respite and a staple for most Americans.  Statistics compiled by the United States Department of Energy revealed, “Three-quarters of all homes in the United States have air conditioners. Air conditioners use about 6% of all the electricity produced in the United States, at an annual cost of about $29 billion to homeowners.”

However, as with any type of machinery, there is also the very real possibility of danger.  The website Insurance Hub reported some sobering numbers concerning air conditioning-related malfunctions:  “In 2014, air conditioning, fans, or related equipment were involved in an estimated 7,800 reported U.S. home structure fires. Sadly 50 people died and 260 were sent to the hospital with injuries.

Air conditioner fires caused $213 million in direct property damage in 2014…

From 2006-2010, there was an average of…

• 2,500 fires per year involving central and room air conditioners
• 3,900 fires per year involving fans

What caused these air-conditioner fires?

It comes down to either a mechanical or electrical failure. Digging deeper, we found that of the AC fires that happened, 33% began with a wire or cable insulation catching fire.”

Given the propensity for fire and other hazards, what are some practical things to help stay both cool and safe in the hotter months?

• For central heat and air conditioning units, have them serviced and examined annually, preferably before summer begins, by a licensed, bonded, and insured Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning specialist.
• Change your filter regularly.
• Check the outside of your unit, whether a window box, wall unit, or central air device for any foreign objects such as insects, small animals, leaves, or branches.
• Try to leave your unit off at peak hours just to give it break and to help prevent overheating.
• Avoid using extension cords for wall and window units, as these can overheat and catch fire easily.

Perhaps you’ve already had an expensive mishap from an air conditioning malfunction, resulting in higher homeowners or renters insurance.  Contact Scott and his highly-qualified team at Johnston & Associates.  They have a quarter of a century of experience helping singles, families, small businesses, and non-profit organizations find the coverage they need at a reasonable price.  They represent a host of reputable and reliable carriers and know how to help the residents of Brentwood, College Grove, Fairview, Franklin, Nashville, Spring Hill, and the rest of Middle Tennessee get back on track after incurring costly claims.  Reach out today to the experts who know how to keep a cool head after a crisis.