As copper prices increase around the world, thefts of refrigeration systems and air conditioning condensers are increasing as well.
Prevention requires more than a security cage, watchdog or other type of warning device. An American company has devised its Copper Watcher monitoring and alarm system and is now looking for distributors in Australia.
To prevent copper pipe and wire theft the Copper Watcher monitors refrigerant pressure, voltage and all communication wires. Copper Watcher communicates with all building security alarm systems and can be monitored by an existing alarm service.
Copper Watcher targets those connections thieves must compromise to steal an outdoor condensing unit or other components situated outside. Typically, the first thing a thief does before stealing the unit is shut down the high voltage power at the disconnect to ensure safety. Copper Watcher supervises power to the unit, so when power is shut off it sends a signal to any existing burglar alarm system. The burglar alarm’s loud siren draws attention to the would-be thieves and compromises their ability to continue.
The moment a power outage occurs, Copper Watcher remains functioning, supported by its internal back-up battery, and continues to monitor the theft through a patented pressure switch. It will sound its internal alarm siren the moment a gas pressure loss is detected, again drawing attention to the attempted theft.
The monitoring system is intelligent enough to tell the difference between a purposeful shut-down and a local power outage and will not send false alarms to the security panel, saving a possible fine with local authorities and the nuisance the audible alarm will cause.
Copper Watcher detects thefts of all types of refrigerant systems: rooftop mounted, ground mounted, commercial refrigeration, residential, new and retrofitted. If it heats or cools with refrigerant, the theft can be detected, the company says.
Copper Watcher does not affect routine maintenance, seasonal service or annual cleaning. Interested Australian agencies can contact Bob Frederick: robertwfrederick@yahoo.com.