FAQ 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. 6. Our cages offer unparalleled storm protection.
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER: Residential and commercial Air Conditioners are now being manufactured with a new ozone friendly R410A refrigerant. Sounds Great doesn't’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.
Do I Need a Permit? We operate out of Lee County, Florida and as of March 1st, 2010 a permit is not needed for standard installation.
How do I know what size I need? Simply go to our contact page and it will guide you through the basics.
Is installation difficult? We install all of our cages in the tri-county area but if you decide to have your cage shipped to you the installation process is simple in most instances. However, since no two scenarios are the same, some installations may require some slight modifications. We offer installation kits with all shipments.
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.
My condenser pad is plastic, or what if I don’t have much of a condenser pad at all, Now what? We recommend our over sized cage with extensions for post hole setting with simple Sack-crete.
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? Nothing is Fort Knox. 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.
Do your products come with a warranty? Warranty Scott's Metal Works hereby warrants that the products manufactured shall be free from material defects and workmanship for a period 12 consecutive months from the date of purchase. This warranty is for structural integrity and excludes the products’ finish. This warranty does not extend to products, parts, or equipment supplied by other manufacturers used in the installation process. We give no warranty against theft of protected device. Scott's Metal Works sole remedy under warranty is for repair or replacement only. Any damage, misuse, abuse, negligent use, alterations or improper installation technique of product or any component thereof is expressly excluded.
Payment We accept all major credit cards, Checks, Money orders, Cash. Final payment must be made upon installation or receipt. Payments not made within a reasonable amount of time may result in the removal, repossession of the product and possible forfeiture of any deposit given.