by Matt Kastner Nothing hurts a landlord’s pocketbook or pride like being the victim of theft or vandalism. Prior to PEX plumbing the main security issue facing landlords and homeowners in St. Louis and around the country is copper theft, but there are many other temping targets at any property. One particularly expensive and “easy to steal” component are AC condensers.
With thousands of dollars of materials and labor tied up in every condenser, the impact of their theft can be tremendous. Especially when they are stolen during the middle of the summer when high temperatures make living without AC more than just an inconvenience. Thankfully, there are two very simple ways to protect yourself. One is to put your condensers on the roof of the property. What thieves can’t easily reach, they are unlikely to steal. Unfortunately this method is not very cost effective if you have an existing HVAC system and takes forethought and more expensive installation.
Another tactic, which is more adaptable, is to enclose your condensers in a cast-iron cage to deter theft. Not the most beautiful method of protection, but effective nonetheless. There is no 100% surefire way to stop a determine thief, but the more difficult it is to target you condensers, the less likely you are to be victimized. If you employ this added security, as well as traditional security methods such as property security lighting, you should be able to rest more easily.
If you are interested in installing one of these cages at your property, it will set you back about $250 for each condenser (installed). I’ve heard good things about Superior Security Iron (314-382-3081), but just about any iron shop or HVAC contractor should be able to point you in the right direction. As with anything, you will likely find bulk discounts if you shop around. Might be a worthy investment for a little peace of mind.
