Noida: With the advent of the summer season, the Noida High-Rise Federation (NHRF) has taken proactive steps to ensure the safety of residents and people living in high-rise buildings. Given the increased fire hazard from the use of air conditioners, the NHRF has issued comprehensive guidelines for its member societies and other high-rise buildings.
Guidelines for the safe use of ACs
The guidelines emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, proper installation, electrical safety, cleaning and monitoring of air conditioning units. The key recommendations include:
- Regular servicing and maintenance of AC units
- Proper installation and safe fixing of AC units
- Avoiding overloading of electrical circuits and using high-quality electrical components
- Regular cleaning of filters and condenser coils
- Monitoring the performance of ACs and resolving problems promptly
As the temperature rises, the risk of fire hazards from the use of ACs also increases. At NHRF, we prioritise the safety of residents and people of Noida. We urge all member societies and high-rise buildings to follow these guidelines and take necessary precautions to prevent fire incidents.
Nikhil Singhal, President, NHRF
‘Awareness is must to prevent mishap’
The objective of these guidelines is to raise awareness and promote safe practices among residents, building managers and maintenance staff. By disseminating these guidelines, NHRF strives to prevent fire incidents and ensure a safe and secure living environment for all.
Call to Action
NHRF requests all member societies and high-rise buildings to disseminate these guidelines among their residents and people. By working together, we can prevent fire incidents and ensure a safe summer season.
Important Advisory/ Guidelines for Air-Conditioner Usage
Dear Members/Societies (NHRF/Others),
As the summer heat intensifies, air conditioning units (AC) can become more vulnerable to fire hazards. It’s crucial to understand the various factors that contribute to such incidents and take proactive measures to prevent them.
To ensure safe and efficient operation of your air conditioner (AC) during summer and avoid potential fire hazards, kindly follow below guidelines/ Do’s & Don’ts:
Dos: –
- Regular Maintenance:
- Service Period: Schedule professional maintenance/ servicing every 6 months. This includes cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical connections, and ensuring overall system integrity.
- Filter Cleaning: Clean or replace (If required) filters every month or depending on usage and air quality.
- Optimal Set Points:
- Temperature Settings: Set the thermostat between 24°C – 26°C for efficient cooling and energy savings.
- Fan Speed: Use the appropriate fan speed setting for your comfort and efficiency. Auto mode is often a good choice.
- Installation and Placement:
-
- Proper Installation: Ensure the AC unit is installed by a certified technician, with appropriate electrical connections and grounding.
- Clear Area: Keep the area around the outdoor unit free of debris, leaves, and other obstructions to ensure proper airflow.
- Electrical Safety:
- Correct Voltage: Ensure the AC is connected to the correct voltage as specified by the manufacturer.
- Surge Protector: Use a surge protector to safeguard against electrical surges.
- Replacement of Damage Wiring: Replace worn or damaged wiring immediately, and have a licensed technician address any refrigerant leaks promptly.
- Usage Practices:
- Gradual Adjustment: Gradually adjust the thermostat instead of making drastic changes.
- Turn Off When Not in Use: Turn off the AC when leaving the room for extended periods.
- Monitor for Issues:
- Unusual Noises or Smells: Pay attention to unusual noises or smells, which can indicate a problem.
- Thermostat Calibration: Regularly check the thermostat for accuracy.
Don’ts: –
- Overloading Electrical Circuits:
- Avoid using multiple high-power devices on the same circuit as the AC to prevent overloading and potential fire hazards.
- Blocking Airflow:
- Do not block vents or obstruct airflow around the indoor and outdoor units, which can cause overheating.
- Ignoring Warning Signs:
- Do not ignore warning signs like frequent tripping of circuit breakers, which can indicate electrical issues.
- Inadequate Ventilation:
- Ensure the room is not airtight. Some ventilation is necessary to prevent overloading the AC and ensure efficient operation.
- Neglecting Professional Help:
- Do not attempt to repair the AC yourself if you are not qualified. Always seek professional help for repairs and maintenance.
- Using Incorrect Parts:
- Avoid using non-recommended parts or accessories, which can compromise the system’s safety and performance.
Additional Tips
- Temperature Settings: During extreme heat, avoid setting the temperature too low. A setting of 24°C – 26°C is comfortable and reduces strain on the AC.
- Use Fans: Complement AC usage with ceiling or portable fans to circulate air more efficiently, allowing you to set the AC at a slightly higher temperature.
- Shade Outdoor Units: If possible, shade the outdoor unit to improve efficiency but ensure it still has adequate airflow.
By following the above guidelines, you can ensure the safe operations of your Air-conditioners in your society, minimize the risk of fire, and maintain a comfortable indoor environment during the summer.