Sand vs. Your Air Conditioner

The "Sandblasting" Effect

Living in Mojave means dealing with constant wind and blowing sand. While it's great for the wind farm turbines, it's terrible for your AC unit's condenser coils.

The outdoor unit of your AC works by releasing heat through thin aluminum fins. When sand hits these fins at 40+ MPH:

• The fins bend and close up, blocking airflow.
• The aluminum erodes, leading to refrigerant leaks.
• Sand packs into the unit, insulating the coils and causing overheating.

How toProtect Your Unit

1. Install a Wind Break

Don't block airflow completely, but a strategically placed fence or shrubbery on the windward side (usually the West) can slow down the air enough to drop the heavy sand particles before they hit your unit.

2. Hose It Down (Gently)

After a big blow, verify your unit isn't packed with dirt. Use a garden hose with a low-pressure sprayer to wash the coils from the inside out if possible, or gently from top to bottom on the outside. Never use a high-pressure washer; it will destroy the fins instantly.

3. Coil Guards

Some manufacturers sell specific hail/wind guards. These can restrict airflow slightly, so consult with us before installing one to ensure your compressor won't overheat.

Rooftop Package Units

Many homes in Mojave use rooftop units. These are even more exposed. We recommend annual "chem-washes" for rooftop units to dissolve the caked-on mud created when rain mixes with the desert dust.