Vol. 2008 No.

Page 1of 1

PREVENT FIRE
IN SPLIT TYPE CONDENSING A/C UNITS

On January 27, 2008 a Split Type Condensing Air Conditioning (A/C) unit caught fire. The
electrical wiring insulation, the copper tube foam insulation and various parts of the A/C
enclosure got burned. The discovery in the early stages of the fire and the effective action by
trained personnel who put out the fire prevented the total loss of the building and its contents.

FINDINGS
• The A/C compressor electrical wire overheated, melting the wire insulation and
started to burn the copper tube foam insulation and the wire duct cover.
• There was delay in the power trip with the circuit breaker.
• The setting of the overload protector which was integrated to the magnetic
starter did not work.
• The insulated copper tubes were joined together with the electrical wires in the
wire duct.

RECOMMENDATIONS
• Establish preventive maintenance program for all types of A/C units for
immediate implementation.
o Include detailed instructions and checklists.
o Report and trend all maintenance problems including short circuit occurrence.
• Ensure compliance with manufacturer’s specifications regarding the correct
rating of the circuit breakers for all A/C units.
• Separate electrical wiring from the insulated copper tubes.

Edited by: Program HSE Office

Issued by: Program HSE Office Date: 2/6/2008