control circuit board corrosion

Most modern control boards are of a type called “surface mount” because most components are automatically attached to the surface of the circuit board and not attached by plated through holes. Effectively, the components are smaller and tracks are closer together. This can make the board more susceptible to damage from moisture or insect and snails and slugs. Corrosion takes place, and the effects are typically worsened because of the proximity of the tracks and component pin outs. In some cases where corrosion has been apparent, I have been spraying the replacement pcb with conformal coating or pcb lacquer to try to alleviate future problems. I am unsure whether this is a local problem or not, but I think Auckland does have a salty atmosphere.