Deniliquin Fire + Rescue NSW was called to a Harfleur St home in central-east Deniliquin just before 4pm.
Smoke had started filling the home, causing the smoke alarms to sound.
On investigation, a fire in the evaporative air conditioner swampy on the roof was discovered.
Acting Captain Les Booth said without the alert, the home might have been lost.
“The occupant was in another room of the home with a reverse cycle air conditioner on,” he said.
“We believe the swampy’s motor burned out, and smoke was piped into the home via the ducting.
“It certainly could have been much worse - the smoke alarm really did its job here.”
Act Capt Booth said the brigade responded with both fire appliances, and spent almost an hour extinguishing the fire and making the area safe.
“The fire was luckily contained to the evaporative unit,” he said.
“We isolated the power before putting water on it, and we’ve instructed the occupants they need to get an electrician to come and take a look.”
Act Capt Booth said while most people concentrate on bushfire safety during the warmer months, this week’s incident is a reminder that air conditioners can be just as dangerous as heaters.
Most will be getting a workout this week and beyond, thanks to an extended heatwave.
Act Capt Booth said just like heater services are important before the winter, air conditioners and fans must also be regularly checked and serviced to reduce the risk of a fire.
For fire safety tips for all seasons and situations, go to www.fire.nsw.gov.au or www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
• If you see an unattended fire, call 000 immediately.
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