Hey, Low Country! How’s that air conditioning workin’ for ya?
While most people love the saltwater environment— as in sunrise over the salt marsh, boats bobbing on a tidal inlet, and the fresh smell of salty air— it does not love our HVAC equipment, apparently. Salt is notoriously corrosive, and HVAC contractors say they see units that should last 15 years rotting away after just four or five years.
But there are some ways to extend that life. In fact, three ways come to mind right off the bat. One is to have the outside unit placed on the side of the wall that’s away from the water and the wind off that same water. It’s better not to have the unit installed beneath a porch or in an enclosure, because rainwater in this case, helps keep the unit salt-free.
In fact, that’s the second guideline: Hose off the unit periodically with a garden hose. Just make sure to turn off the thermostat first, or the unit will be led to believe you want heat. You really should schedule maintenance calls twice a year. Think of it as HVAC investment protection.
Our third tip concerns your initial shopping. Check for a special warranty for coastal residents (anyone living east of Highway 17)— and even if you don’t find a coastal warranty, shop around for a salt-friendly unit. Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems sells something called the Evolution, with ‘CoastGuard’ protection.
“After extensive testing and research on the effects of salt air and other corrosive materials, Bryant has developed an air conditioner and heat pump that can deliver lasting comfort and efficiency in coastal climates,” said Lisa Townley, brand manager at Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems. “The two-stage air conditioners and heat pumps with CoastGuard protection feature Bryant TuffCoat™ coils that last longer than standard coils in coastal conditions.» (Here’s more on the topic: http://www.bryant.com/mediacenter/news/pr-20120508.shtml)
Carrier has an outdoor unit named Infinity, which is also made to withstand salt corrosion. For a look at the various models, check our comparison page: http://www.acdoctor.com/Bryant-p-1-c-98.html.
No, you can’t google halotolerant HVAC, but manufacturers do pay attention to the Low Country.