Why it matters to you
Salt exposure is strongest within the first few miles of salt water, but Charleston's tidal creeks and marshes carry it well inland of the beaches — if you can smell the marsh from your yard, your equipment lives in the exposure zone.
Practical guidance
Choose coated coils for any new condenser or mini-split outdoor unit near the water, and site it out of direct onshore wind where possible. Rinse the coil gently with a garden hose during salt-heavy months, and never pressure-wash it.
