Can an AC Unit Explode in Overlake, WA?

HVAC explosions aren’t as rare as you may think. However, when people envision a fire or explosion related to their HVAC units, they likely think of a furnace or boiler problem. Can an AC unit explode in the same way?

During DEAR Services’ AC services in Overlake, WA, and beyond, we’ve seen some strange things happen that underpin the importance of proper HVAC safety. Below, we share whether air conditioning explosions are something to worry about and how to prevent issues. 

Understand How Air Conditioners Cool Overlake Homes and Businesses

Knowing how air conditioning works makes it easier to comprehend how a dangerous explosion or fire could even happen. Let’s consider the basic cooling process as a start.

This type of system removes heat and moisture from the inside air and transfers the warmth and water vapor outside. The heat transfer keeps your Overlake house cool and comfortable throughout the summer months, thanks to the refrigeration cycle cooling indoor air. Coolant or refrigerant inside the air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser coils flows in a closed loop, letting heat transform it from a low-pressure gas to a high-pressure gas to a liquid and back again. 

Since pressure and heat are crucial to the air conditioner’s function, most modern cooling units feature safety mechanisms to prevent overheating and electrical issues. For instance, your home’s circuit breakers can cut off power to your HVAC unit if it experiences a sudden influx of electricity. Thermal overload protectors and pressure relief valves also keep this equipment safe to use. 

Possible Air Conditioner Explosion Risks

So, with enough pressure and heat buildup, can an AC unit explode? It’s rare, but yes, an air conditioner explosion can occur within a cooling unit if there’s an ignition source. Are there highly flammable refrigerant leaks and no working safety features in place? 

Even if film-worthy explosions aren’t really expected with cooling units, air conditioners can experience a lesser “explosion” that can be startling. This isn’t exactly a violent burst of internal pressure or a chemical reaction, but more a failure or malfunction that causes loud noises, fires, and smoke. Here are some scenarios to consider:

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant heats up and then cools before recirculating through the closed loop. If coils and lines degrade or crack, refrigerant leaks. Your air conditioner in Overlake can only operate optimally with enough refrigerant to handle the heat transfer. 

A leak alters the chemical’s level, which can cause your equipment to overwork. Enough overheating and compression malfunctions could result in a fire or explosion. 

Electrical Problems

Air conditioners operate on electricity, requiring a complex network of wires and connections to work correctly. However, damaged fuses, frayed wires, and loose connections can pose significant risks of electrical fires. 

Can an AC unit explode during an electrical fire? An explosion is certainly possible if the refrigerant lines ignite!

AC Compressor Failure

The compressor is the heart of any cooling unit because it pumps refrigerant through the system. Faulty or damaged pressure relief valves could cause excessive levels. Any sudden pressure release can trigger a loud bang as the compressor breaks apart at high speed, which may resemble an explosion.

Excessive Overheating

Air conditioners in Overlake often overheat when one or more components malfunction. A lack of maintenance can also reduce the equipment’s efficiency, resulting in an overworked, overheated unit. While occasional unit overheating is common and fixable, excessive strain could cause loud noises, fires, or sudden malfunctions. 

How To Protect Your Air Conditioner in Overlake From Fires and Explosions

Can an AC unit explode? Some of the above examples give the impression of an explosion without the devastation, but others risk serious HVAC troubles. 

How can you preserve your property’s safety and ensure your cooling system’s performance? For one, avoid damaging electrical surges by turning off your air conditioner’s power during storms. You might also invest in whole-home surge protection or use a surge-proof extension cord for your system. 

Lastly, schedule regular maintenance and inspections. It’s safer and cheaper to uncover and resolve cooling unit problems while they’re minor.