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AC maintenance in Calipatria, CA

Salton Sea air, below sea level

Calipatria sits below sea level near the southeast shore of the Salton Sea. The town is known for its tall flagpole, built so that the top reaches sea level. The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is just to the west.

What the Salton Sea means for your AC

Two things set Calipatria apart: fine dust blowing off the drying shoreline and fields, and salty, mineral-laden air near the sea. Dust clogs filters and coils. Salt and minerals speed up corrosion on the outdoor unit's aluminum fins and copper tubing.

A Calipatria maintenance routine

• Filter: check every 2–4 weeks in summer and after windy days.
• Outdoor coil: rinse with fresh water several times a year, power off, to wash away dust and salt residue.
• Tune-up: every spring. Ask the tech to look for corrosion on the coil and refrigerant lines, and on the electrical connections.
• Shade and clearance: keep plants trimmed back 2 feet, but don't box the unit in.