Is Window AC safer or Split? Blasts are happening continuously, know these things for safety

The recent AC blast incident in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar shocked everyone. A fire broke out in a four-storey house early in the morning due to an AC explosion, in which 9 people lost their lives and many were injured. Such incidents are increasing, due to which people are wondering which AC is safer – split or window?

Both ACs have their own advantages, but it is important to compare them from safety point of view. Advantages and disadvantages of Split AC- Split AC is most popular nowadays. In this, indoor and outdoor units are separate. The advantage is that noise is less and cooling is faster. But the risk may be greater if gas leaks because the pipeline is long.

If installation is not done properly, vibration may cause the pipe to loosen. Most of the blast incidents have been seen in split ACs only, especially in old models or poorly maintained ones.

Advantages and disadvantages of Window AC – Window AC is in one unit. It is cheap, easy installation and low maintenance. The risk of gas leakage is less because the pipe is short and straight. But it makes more noise and the cooling is not as fast as split. Window AC is still considered safe in old houses.

Why does AC blast happen? There is refrigerant gas in AC. If the gas leaks and meets any spark, it can cause a blast. Main reasons are: No servicing for years, bad compressor, voltage fluctuation, wrong installation.

Which AC is safer? According to experts, window AC is considered a little safer because there is less risk of gas leak and blast in it. But split AC is also safe when it is from a good company, has regular servicing and is installed properly.

For safety, definitely follow these tips: Get AC service done every 6 months, install stabilizer of a good company, replace the AC if it is old (more than 10 years), if there is suspicion of gas leak, immediately switch it off and call a technician and do not install the AC in direct sunlight or in a closed place.

AC is a means of our comfort, but due to carelessness it can become fatal. Incidents like Vivek Vihar make us cautious. If budget and space permit, window AC may be a safer option, but split AC is also safe with proper maintenance. Get your AC checked regularly and be careful.