Air conditioning units cause potential dangers

The weather is starting to heat up so air conditioners are going to be put to more and more use. But if you don’t check your system regularly you could be in for an unpleasant surprise.

Columbia firefighters responded to a call early Friday morning about a smoking A/C unit on St. Charles road. No damage was caused but Air Serv Heating and Air Conditioning technician Danny Crowuse says the problem could have easily been avoided.

“Make sure the guys that are doing your yard are blowing the clippings away from the outdoor unit,” Crowuse said, “because that is just going to build up on those fins, on that outdoor coil, and that’s the last thing you want that could lead to a lot of problems.”

For outdoor systems, you should make sure the area between the house and the unit is “clear of any debris of any debris, whether that be leaves, grass clippings, dirt, anything,” Crowuse said . The same goes for indoor systems, but instead, look for dust and pet fur. Always change your filter regularly to avoid problems.