HVAC Safety Hazards: 4 Things To Keep In Mind

Whether you’re working in the HVAC industry or have recently installed the unit in your home, you must ensure proper safety for all in the vicinity. Yes, HVAC units can be pretty hazardous, especially if not properly maintained. Nonetheless, in this article, we have mentioned some of the safety measures that you can take. After all, ensuring safety and a healthy environment should be your priority, no matter what. So keep reading these 4 safety hazards.

1. The First of HVAC Safety Hazards is Risks of Electrocution

The first of all the possible accidents that HVAC units can cause is electrocution. According to a report, electrocution has been reported as the 6th leading cause of workplace-related fatalities. There are several small components in an HVAC unit, and most of them are electrical. For example, capacitors, circuitry, and even the compressor of the unit work on electricity. If you suspect any electrical issues with your HVAC system, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and search for HVAC contractor with expertise in handling such problems. Regular maintenance can help identify and address potential electrical hazards before they become serious risks.

Any exposure to uninsulated wiring or components can easily lead to electrocution accidents. Though minor shocks may not even require medical attention, longer exposure can lead to several complexities. Including cardiac arrest and fire accidents.

2. Refrigerant Leaks is One of the HVAC Safety Hazards

HVAC units are filled with refrigerants, also known as coolants. The primary component of refrigerants includes CFCs, which are also known for adverse green-house effects. Besides, the federal government has also declared it illegal to release these fluids into the open environment.

However, even if you don’t do it on purpose, there are possibilities that the fluids may leak on their own. And this could be pretty disastrous for your health and for those in the vicinity. Perhaps, there’s a solution- refrigerant leak detectors. The leak detectors can easily alarm the people around the unit and prevent potential health hazards. HVAC experts explain that leak detectors are important not only for health concerns but also for environmental and legal compliance. With the right sensors, possible hazards can be easily avoided and the leakage can be controlled then and there.

3. Filter Efficiency Could be another of the HVAC Safety Hazards

It is noteworthy that HVAC units are also responsible for regulating indoor air quality. Yes, an HVAC unit contains composite filters to clear the air of any potential pollutants. You might be surprised to know that indoor air is 10X more polluted than the air outside. Although, the pollutants are different. That being said, HVAC filters have a lifespan, beyond which they no longer perform to their full efficiency.

During the course of using an HVAC unit, it is necessary to clean the filters regularly. This helps keep them efficiently working. Also, it is recommended to replace them after every 6 months, depending upon the frequency of operation of the unit.

4. Improper Mounting of an HVAC

Last but not least, HVAC units, since they are usually mounted at a height, are prone to falling down. Of course, this also depends on how it has been mounted, the quality and age of the mounts, and many other factors. For example, mounting an HVAC unit loosely can easily shake it down during operation. And thus lead to accidents, sometimes fatal ones. It is better to ensure that your HVAC unit is installed firmly and does not move while operational.

Though the HVAC units are an essential piece of equipment in modern times, they also come with their fair share of possible drawbacks. Nonetheless, discarding them is not the solution. Perhaps, ensuring proper safety measures in place is better than any other solution. At least, it is for now.

Featured Image Source Imagine de F. Muhammad de la Pixabay