Special care is required for outdoor condensing units near ocean environments. Ocean mist and sea breezes carry sand and especially salt, which is very corrosive to most metals. To protect the equipment, cabinets are made with galvanized metal and protected with top-grade paint. Most condensing units are manufactured with aluminum fins that are mechanically bonded to copper tubes. The aluminum fins are especially susceptible to salt and can deteriorate quickly depending on a number of factors including fin construction, location of the equipment relative to the salt water and the frequency of maintenance. Salt damage can cause the aluminum to flake and under extreme conditions the fins will begin to peel away from the copper tubing. When this occurs heat transfer is disrupted decreasing the overall efficiency of the equipment. The most important step in prolonging the life of the equipment is proper maintenance and using a cover during the off season. The installer of your equipment will have a fairly good idea about cleaning schedules based on your equipment and area.