Your HVAC system may be at risk for theft. The market price for recycled copper and aluminum makes it worthwhile for thieves to patrol neighborhoods, looking for the opportunity to haul your outdoor compressor/condenser away. Is your compressor easily seen from the street? Is it located outside your fence so it’s accessible? Are you away from home for extended periods? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, it’s probably advisable to secure your system.

Whether thieves strip the compressor of metals right there on your property, or haul it away to disassemble it for metals or to sell it outright — maybe even to other victims of HVAC theft — you stand to suffer significant losses from A/C theft. Here are some ways to protect your system.

Cage it Up

Erecting a stainless steel or iron cage around your system is one of the best ways to secure it. A number of different types of cages are available on the market — some are even designed to complement the style of your home or to fit in better with the landscaping. The cage design allows air to flow freely into the unit so its operation is not compromised. If you go this route, be sure to get a good quality, pick-resistant lock. Bolt the cage to a concrete base.

Install Security Equipment

Installing an alarm on your unit is also an effective way to deter thieves. You might also rig up motion-activated cameras and motion-sensing lights to protect your property.

Build a Fence Around it

Install a tall wooden fence around your unit — tall enough so it’s hard to scale, and designed so thieves can’t see what’s behind it, but make sure your unit still has good airflow. Secure the fence with a pick-proof lock that’s also resistant to cutting. If your outdoor component is located in the front or side yard where it’s easy to see and steal, think about moving the HVAC compressor, if at all possible.

For more on securing your HVAC system, contact Powers Heating & Air of Peachtree City. We serve Fayette and Coweta counties.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about protecting HVAC system components and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 770-487-2040.

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