Reports of HVAC-related crime are climbing in some areas. In Atlanta, thieves have been stealing copper parts and even entire air-conditioning units from homes and businesses, and the problem has grown bad enough that residents are taking extra steps to protect their equipment. Outdoor AC units and condensers, which contain copper coils and tubing, are common targets because copper can be sold for scrap value.
Separately, there have been reports of violent incidents involving HVAC workers, including a case where a technician shot a co-worker on the job. These are being cited as reminders of the risks that can come up around service calls and job sites.
For a homeowner, the practical concern is equipment theft. An outdoor AC unit or heat pump sitting in a yard or alongside a house can be an easy target, especially in areas where thefts have been on the rise. If you live somewhere with reported copper or unit theft, it may be worth checking whether your unit is visible or easily accessible from the street, and whether your homeowner's insurance covers theft or damage to outdoor equipment. There's no new program, rebate, or rule change here — just a trend worth being aware of if you have outdoor HVAC equipment at your home.
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