An air conditioner is a major investment for your home, so it should be protected. Unfortunately, because air conditioners are installed on the outside of your home, this makes them vulnerable and easy for thieves to find and steal during the summer months. In this article, we will cover important tips on how you can improve air conditioner security and safeguard your investment.
To learn more or to schedule air conditioner maintenance or installation in St. Louis, contact the heating and cooling experts at Galmiche & Sons online or by phone at 314-993-1110.
Smart Air Conditioner Security Tips to Protect Your Investment
While there are many things you can do to ensure air conditioner security, the first step is to strengthen the fencing around your home to deter thieves from entering. Here are some other ways to protect your AC unit:
- Install a cage: Adding bars or a cage over your AC unit is an easy way to protect your air conditioner. Be sure to secure the cage properly, bolting it to the concrete around it. While pre-built cages are available, you can also get a cage customized. Make sure there is enough room for the AC unit to breathe, and the cage opens with a key to allow access for HVAC professionals if needed.
- Trim back bushes and landscaping: Overgrown bushes, trees, and other landscaping allows for a place where thieves can hide, shielding them from getting caught. Keeping bushes and landscaping properly trimmed will improve air conditioner security by keeping the system in plain sight.
- Set up an outside surveillance system: To protect your AC from thieves, place a surveillance camera outside facing the unit. This will give you peace of mind and can help police identify a thief if they ever come by your house.
- Keep your AC disconnect box locked: Before a thief can run off with your AC unit, they will need to disconnect its power first, to avoid electrocution when removing the unit. As such, simply adding a strong lock to your disconnect box is a great way to add one more barrier that can discourage most robbers.
- Install /update your home alarm system for increased safety: Installing an alarm system and motion sensor lights around your property can help deter thieves. If you already have a security system ensure it is updated regularly. The security systems are always changing and have new features to protect your home.
- Install special alarms: A reputed HVAC company in the St. Louis area can install special alarms that can identify tampering, loss of refrigerant, or voltage interruption. The alarm system will notify you with a siren and call the local police if your air conditioner security is under threat.
- Install microdot identification systems: Placing microscopic dots with unique codes will help you identify your unit and its components and recover them even if they are stolen. Add the AC’s serial number, your name, phone number, and address on the AC parts such as the condenser that are sought-after by thieves.
Learn More About Protecting Your Air Conditioner
When it comes to protecting your air conditioner, improving air conditioner security is just one step in process. It is also important to ensure that your system is regularly serviced and properly maintained in order to prevent major system breakdowns and costly repairs. Schedule professional AC system maintenance and service at least once a year to make sure your AC is protected. In St. Louis, call the experts at Galmiche & Sons today to schedule your appointment.