Police warn of HVAC thefts
From the RPD:
The Richmond Police Department would like to alert residents to a recent increase in the theft of HVAC, heating and cooling units from outside homes in the northern part of the city. Within the past two weeks, the RPD has received nine (9) reports from victims whose units were stolen.
The thieves cut the pipes and wires that connect the units to the buildings before taking them away.
Investigators urge residents to be vigilant about their properties, especially unoccupied buildings and to promptly report any suspicious activity they may observe. They also urge anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
To prevent or make it harder for thieves to steal the HVAC units is to put a lock on the junication box. The box is usually directly behind the outside unit. There is a eye hook where the homeowner can place a lock.
This will prevent the thieves from cutting power to unit and stealing the unit. Well at least it will prevent them from stealing the unit without being electrocuted.