Outdoor air conditioning units are valuable and often vulnerable pieces of equipment. Whether located behind a commercial building, near an apartment complex or beside a marina office, these units are exposed to theft, vandalism and harsh weather. One of the most effective ways to protect your system is by installing a durable AC security cage.
At Reese Marine & Manufacturing, we design and fabricate custom louvered HVAC cages that secure and conceal your unit while maintaining airflow and accessibility. This guide will help you choose the best AC cage for your environment, understand key installation factors and learn how to enhance long-term protection.
Why AC Security Cages Matter
Outdoor AC units are frequent targets for:
- Copper theft, especially in remote or unmonitored locations
- Vandalism or unauthorized tampering by the public or untrained personnel
- Weather-related damage from flying debris, hail or falling branches
- Code compliance issues in areas where visual obstruction or protection is required by HOAs or municipalities
Installing an AC security cage ensures safety, supports equipment longevity and can even help reduce liability concerns for property owners and facility managers.
Key Features to Look For in an AC Security Cage
When selecting a protective enclosure for your HVAC unit, it’s important to consider more than just basic coverage. Here’s what to prioritize:
1. Material Quality
Choose cages made from lightweight aluminum or galvanized steel with powder-coated finishes. These materials resist corrosion, minimize maintenance and perform well in humid, salt-air environments like the Gulf Coast.
Our louvered HVAC cages are fabricated to withstand weather and prevent rust, even in coastal conditions.
2. Louvered Design
Ventilation is key. A quality cage should include louvers that:
- Allow unrestricted airflow for unit efficiency
- Obscure the unit from plain view (for HOA or municipal compliance)
- Provide protection without overheating the system
3. Access & Maintenance Features
Look for cages that include:
- Removable doors or slide-out side panels for service access
- Padlock-ready access points for controlled entry
- Designs that do not block routine maintenance areas
These features allow technicians to service the unit without disassembling the cage or damaging surrounding infrastructure.
Installation Tips for AC Security Cages
While every property is unique, here are a few key installation best practices:
1. Measure for Fit
Ensure that your cage is custom-built to the unit’s footprint, including clearance for piping, wiring and airflow requirements. At Reese Marine & Manufacturing, we custom design every cage based on your unit’s dimensions and placement.
2. Mount Securely
Cages should be bolted directly to a concrete pad or secure wall-mounted brackets. Avoid temporary fixtures or lightweight anchors, which can be easily removed or fail during storms.
3. Plan for Future Maintenance
Leave adequate clearance for HVAC professionals to access all panels, ports, and controls. Avoid cage designs that require full removal to perform basic tasks.
Who Needs an AC Security Cage?
We recommend AC cages for:
- Apartment complexes and multi-unit dwellings
- Marinas and waterfront buildings
- Commercial warehouses and offices
- Government or school buildings
- Cell towers, pump stations, and telecom equipment
Whether for compliance, safety or protection, a secure HVAC enclosure provides peace of mind for building owners and facility managers.
Why Choose Reese Marine & Manufacturing?
With over 35 years of experience in custom metal fabrication, Reese Marine & Manufacturing builds AC security cages that meet both functional and aesthetic needs. All of our HVAC cages are:
- Made from durable aluminum or coated steel
- Custom-designed for your equipment and layout
- Fabricated locally in Daphne, AL
- Finished with powder coating for long-term durability
- Built with louvered panels and removable doors for easy service
We’re a trusted partner to contractors, commercial property managers and municipalities across the Gulf Coast.