Here are some of the more frequently asked questions from our customers. If the answer to your question is not here, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Why should I purchase protection for my Air Conditioner?
Protecting your property from criminals could save you thousands of dollars. To put it in perspective may we suggest the following:
1. Educate yourself on the rapidly increasing epidemic of copper theft.
2. Do not assume you are not a target.
3. Consider the unfortunate situation of being without Air Conditioning.
4. Contact a local Air Conditioner company and inquire how much a replacement A/C unit would cost.
5. Calculate the Cost of replacement VS the Cost of Protection.
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER: Residential and commercial Air Conditioners are now being manufactured with a new ozone friendly R410A refrigerant. Sounds Great doesn’t it? However, if your unit is older than a couple years, the inside portion of your Air Conditioning system may not work with a new outside condenser. What does that mean? Simple. If your outside A/C unit gets stolen and a new R410A unit is required, you may be forced to replace both the inside and the outside unit. Now the $50 bucks the crook just made will potentially cost you upwards of $5000.
How do I know what size I need?
Ordering is as easy as 1,2,3.
Please refer to our easy to use order forms.
1. Measure the width, depth, and height of your condensing unit.
2. Measure the condenser pad and determine what material it is made out of.
3. Determine what size is appropriate and contact us.
Is installation difficult?
No. The installation process is simple in most instances. However, since no two scenarios are the same, some installations may require some slight modifications.
I have heard of electronic theft deterrent devices for A/C units, why the Cage?
While there are electronic sirens that are sold to help deter A/C theft, our position is stopping the theft, not catching the thief. When a thief is scouting out a potential victim for theft, our goal is to have you ruled out completely rather than to have them find out there is protection after damage has occurred. The cage is a visible warning that says, “You’re going to work for this one!” An alarm sounding in a secluded area draws little attention and the auto-dialer option is only as effective as the nearest person who has been informed. Please remember, it takes just minutes to destroy or remove your unit. We have sold alarms before and think they are most effective when used with a cage.
I have seen recently where I can purchase tamper proof screws for my A/C unit panels. Do these work?
Does it work in keeping the crook from salvaging your unit where it sits? Probably. Does it work from keeping the thief from throwing your unit in a truck and taking it elsewhere to be stripped? Not likely. We feel our cages installed with the tamper proof hardware offers the best protection because it is the only solution that gives you the odds of being completely ruled out from the start.
My condenser pad is plastic, now what?
We recommend you order a Condenser Cage the next size larger than your pad to allow enough room to mount your cage into the ground. Plastic condenser pads are becoming popular and are plenty durable for supporting the condenser, however, we feel that fastening your Condenser Cage to a plastic pad would compromise the security of your air conditioner. A Series III adjustable cage may be a good choice for this situation.
What if I don’t have much of a condenser pad at all?
Like with plastic condenser pads, we recommend you order a cage that is larger that your longest measurements to enable you to install your Condenser Cage in the ground. A Series III Adjustable cage may be a good choice for this situation.
The cage doesn’t fit properly because it is hitting the copper going into my A/C unit at the bottom.
Our cages, in most instances, give adequate clearance for copper lines. Approximately 12” on square tube models and a open notched corner on expanded metal models. Occasionally, the copper going into the A/C unit is either higher than standard or just plain in the way. In a case such as this, some adjustments may be necessary.
The electrical power going into my A/C unit is in the way.
This is a common situation on square tube models but also the most potentially DANGEROUS!The electrical power will have to be turned off, disconnected, fed through the cage, then reconnected. This takes about 5 minutes to do, but because of safety concerns, Hapco strongly recommends having a professional or someone familiar with electricity to assist with this step if necessary.
What do I bolt my Condenser Cage to the concrete with?
We sell an installation kit with the bolts you would typically need for installation. If you DIY, we recommend using a 1/2” bolt and washer or something comparable. TIP- To keep an un-authorized person from un-bolting your Condenser Cage, we recommend using a tamper resistant fastener. Please refer to the installation tips portion of our resources section.
How do I install my cage in the ground?
If you are using one of adjustable models, assemble it completely before attempting to install it. Measure the distance between the Cage legs and dig 4 holes in the ground approximately 12-14” deep and 4-6” round. Install 4 J-hooks (Sold with installation kit). With assistance, lift the cage over the unit and lower into holes. Level the Cage both directions adding or removing dirt in holes as needed. Obtain some Quickcrete (concrete), mix, and pour in holes to set cage. Do not try to install the Series III Cage un-assembled! Please refer to the installation tips portion of our resources section.
Can you make the Condenser Cage in a specific color?
Yes. There are color options available. Please contact us for details.
Will these cages show rust?
Eventually, yes. Steel begins to rust from the moment you expose it to the elements. Our products are either Galvanized, Powder Coated, or both. This provides a tough, weather resistant barrier to help keep your cage looking it’s best. Some customers have asked about using aluminum to fabricate the cages due to the non-rust factor. The problem with that is two fold. First, the cage would cost more money and not be as strong. Second, you would be providing a thief extra incentive. Now the air conditioner AND the cage have scrap value!
Are these Cages theft proof?
No. In fact, I would be willing to say nothing is absolutely theft proof. However, we know that having a house alarm, car alarm, and barking dogs all help deter theft. A thief looking for a quick snatch and grab of your Air Conditioner has far too many unprotected ones that they will skip the protected unit in favor of another one close by.
Do you offer a Discount for Volume?
Yes. Large orders are eligible for a discount. Please contact us for details.
What is your freight policy?
This depends on the style of cage, quantity, and of course, your location. We are located in Florida and can usually ship to FL, GA, SC, NC, TN for around $65-$75 per pallet. That’s per pallet, not per cage. For example, if you ordered (4) Series IV cages and they were shipped on one pallet, the cost would only be around $20 each. To get an accurate quote for shipping, we would need to know what you were getting and where it is going.
Do your products come with a warranty?
Yes. View our warranty here.
