While living on the South Shore comes with beautiful views and cool ocean breezes, the salty sea air can take a significant toll on your heating and cooling system. This makes regular HVAC maintenance even more important for New England’s charming coastal homes than those located further inland. Continue reading to learn how ocean air affects your equipment and what you can do to protect your system.
The Problem with Salty, Humid Coastal Air
Coastal Air Increases Corrosion
The excess moisture and salt present in coastal air creates a harsh environment for heating and cooling systems. When salt settles on the metal components of your equipment, this can lead to rust and corrosion over time. If the salt begins to eat away at critical parts, this could compromise the performance and functionality of your system.
Salt Can Build Up on Filters
Salt deposits can also build up on your filters, resulting in restricted airflow and increased wear on your system as it tries to push air through the blocked filters. Not only does this make it more difficult for your system to heat and cool your home effectively, it also increases your energy bills without improving your comfort.
Humid Air Harbors Bacteria
In addition to salt, coastal air is usually very humid. High moisture levels can cause condensation to form inside your system, which creates the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and bacteria to grow. Not only does this contribute to poor indoor air quality, it can also cause damage to system components like your ductwork and insulation.
Salt Deposits Can Damage Electrical Connections
Salt can also creep into your system’s delicate electrical components, causing them to corrode and lose connectivity. Over time, your system becomes more at risk for electrical failures, fires, and expensive repairs.
Corroded Coils Prevent Proper Heat Transfer
The metal coils inside your HVAC equipment are what transfer heat to maintain your desired indoor temperature. When the salt in coastal air deposits on these coils, they can start to corrode and eventually even stop working altogether. If this happens, you may notice uneven temperatures and higher electric bills.
Things You Can Do to Mitigate the Damage
Hose Your Outdoor Unit Off
One easy way to reduce the effects of salt air on your HVAC system is to make a habit of rinsing your outdoor unit off every so often. This helps remove salt and debris before they have a chance to accumulate and cause corrosion. Here are a couple things to note before you get started:
● Turn the power off to your HVAC unit first
● Don’t just turn off your thermostat — you need to flip the breaker or disconnect the unit
● Avoid using high pressure settings on your hose, since these can damage delicate metal fins
Have Your System Professionally Cleaned
Salt deposits and grime can settle in hard-to-reach areas of your HVAC system that rinsing won’t resolve. Our experienced professionals are able to use specialized tools and effective cleaning formulas to remove salt buildup without harming your system components. We also inspect for early signs of corrosion or damage, so you can keep your system running effectively and avoid expensive repairs in the future.
It’s a good idea to schedule a maintenance appointment once or twice yearly to keep salt accumulation low and make sure your system continues to work as intended.
Invest in a Unit with Anti-Corrosive Coatings
If your HVAC system is due for an upgrade, you may want to consider purchasing a unit with anti-corrosive coatings that are specifically designed to resist the effects of salt and moisture. While this can enhance performance no matter where you live, it’s especially effective for homeowners who live in coastal environments.
When to Call McClaren Heating & Air Conditioning
Taking care of your heating and cooling system doesn’t have to be a chore with the help of our team of licensed HVAC professionals. With advanced cleaning solutions and high-quality protective coatings, McClaren Heating & Air Conditioning has what you need to keep your system in excellent condition. Contact us today to schedule service at 781-447-0136 or reach out online to learn more.
