When you’re soaking up the sun and salty air in Sarasota, you’re probably thinking more about time outdoors than what’s going on with your air conditioner. However, saltwater damage can have a direct impact on your AC and cause long-term damage. You could end up with a system that’s entirely shut down or has stopped working efficiently.
If you’re already experiencing AC trouble, call the team at Wimpy’s Plumbing & Air right away. We’ll schedule you for air conditioner maintenance, repair, or replacement. You can also use some of our best tips to help protect your air conditioner from saltwater.
How Can Salt Water Damage Your Air Conditioner?
A combination of salt and water can corrode and deteriorate your AC’s integrity, causing it to stop working altogether. Salty air will wreak havoc on your unit, from aluminum to steel. Even if you live several miles from the water, you can still deal with salt particles floating in the air and settling down into gritty dust on top of your equipment.
Over time, the condenser’s copper tubes that attach to aluminum fins can start to erode and start leaking freon, which compromises the cooling ability of your air conditioner. You’ll notice dampened air flow as a result of reduced heating and cooling transfer, as well as damage to other parts of your AC. It’s possible that saltwater damage could lead to the rippling effect of a complete system failure.
What Are The Warning Signs That Salt Water Is Damaging Your Air Conditioner?
If you live near the coast, there are several signs that salt water could be damaging your air conditioner, including:
- Poor AC circulation
- Reduced cooling and performance
- Frequent AC repairs and failing parts
- Frozen coils and other parts
- Visible dings and damage
Ways to Protect Your Air Conditioner from Saltwater Damage
Your air conditioner is among the most significant investments you’ll make while owning a home. Protect it from saltwater damage so that it can work for as long as possible. Here are some pro tips to get started:
Schedule regular HVAC maintenance.
Regular air conditioning service and maintenance are crucial to maintaining your AC. The team at Wimpy’s Plumbing & Air will look over your system, detect any problems, swap out filters, and prevent damage from escalating. We’ll also thoroughly clean your system to protect it from saltwater damage.
Rinse Your Outdoor Unit with Fresh Water
Taking a hose and rinsing off your outdoor unit can go a long way toward avoiding saltwater damage. Turn off the power source and take extra precautions by flipping the associated circuit breaker. Next, remove the top panel, use a garden hose or shop vacuum, and spray the AC with low to moderate pressure from the inside out.
This method should help remove salt, dust, dirt, debris, and any corrosive properties trapped inside. Whenever possible, pay close attention to your AC fins and avoid any electrical components.
Wipe Down Your AC Coils
Hosing can be done about once a quarter, but there are other proactive steps to take in between rinses. You can also wipe down your AC with fresh water and a rag. Wipe down the system and remove any salt film you see.
Choose the Right Air Conditioner
When you live on or near the beach, you need the right air conditioner to withstand the elements. Invest in an air conditioner that’s designed for your climate. The team at Wimpy’s can identify which manufacturers work best for coastal areas that resist saltwater damage. Once installed, we can also give you tips on how to best maintain it for year-round peace of mind.
Consider the Right Location to Install Your AC
Where you install your air conditioner also matters. The experts at Wimpy’s Plumbing & Air understand the unique needs of air conditioners and coastal homes. We’ll help identify areas that are better suited, such as those away from coastal winds. In an ideal situation, your home acts as a barrier to protect your outside unit. The right location won’t completely eliminate the buildup of salt, but it can significantly reduce it.
Move Obstructions Out of the Way
Not all objects and equipment will protect your AC from coastal winds and salt. Instead, it can collect salt and eventually spread it to your unit. Clear away any objects, unless your technician at Wimpy’s has advised it’s a good blockade for winds. It will help reduce the number of particles making their way to your air conditioner.
Call Wimpy’s Plumbing & Air for AC in Sarasota & SW Florida
Saltwater and air conditioners don’t mix, but that doesn’t mean you can’t protect your investment. Start by making an appointment for Sarasota air conditioning service. The team at Wimpy’s Plumbing & Air works on all types of air conditioners, HVAC systems, and heat pumps for a cool, comfortable home in the Florida heat. We also offer AC installation in Sarasota, repairs, and replacements. Contact Wimpy’s Plumbing & Air today!
