BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — HVAC companies are calling it an epidemic as the threat of copper theft grows in Kern County. What’s most alarming is thieves are even targeting schools when they’re not in session.
“They are after this condensing coil right here which is very valuable because it has high grade copper tubing all throughout it,” Steve Hughes with Emcor Services said.
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Hughes said up to 50 units have been hit in the last two months. “It’s not cost effective just to replace this condensing coil. It almost is the same amount to replace the entire unit,” said Hughes.
Hughes said a 15-ton condenser unit can cost up to $15,000 to replace…