Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Mechanics
(NOC 7313)
in All Trades and TransportationHeating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics install, maintain, repair and overhaul residential central air conditioning systems, commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning systems and combined heating, ventilation and cooling systems. They are employed by heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning installation contractors, various industrial settings, food wholesalers, engineering firms and retail and servicing establishments. Transport refrigeration mechanics are included in this group.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is a moderate sized occupation in Nova Scotia so some job opportunities may occur through turnover. The number employed in this occupation is expected to decline slightly over the next few years, which may affect the number of new opportunities available. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics most commonly work full-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs are typically temporary positions (such as a term, contract, or casual work). With employment conditions being somewhat seasonal, periods of downtime or layoff throughout the year affect some workers. Also, a fair portion of the workforce is self-employed, so having the option to "work for yourself" may appeal to some individuals’ interests/motivations.
The median employment income for 70% of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $54,077. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$14.75
Minimum$28.25
Median$39.00
MaximumAnnual Pay
$6,836
Minimum$51,037
Median$88,418
MaximumCompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Hourly Pay
$13.00
Minimum$20.35
Median$34.00
MaximumAnnual Pay
$7,580
Minimum$37,269
Median$79,787
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics install, maintain, repair and overhaul residential central air conditioning systems, commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning systems and combined heating, ventilation and cooling systems. They are employed by heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning installation contractors, various industrial settings, food wholesalers, engineering firms and retail and servicing establishments. Transport refrigeration mechanics are included in this group.
Job duties
Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics perform some or all of the following duties:
- Read and interpret blueprints, drawings or other specifications.
- Measure and lay out reference points for installation.
- Assemble and install refrigeration or air conditioning components such as motors, controls, gauges, valves, circulating pumps, condensers, humidifiers, evaporators and compressors using hand and power tools.
- Measure and cut piping, and connect piping using welding and brazing equipment.
- Install, troubleshoot and overhaul entire heating, ventilation, air handling, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems.
- Startup system and test for leaks using testing devices.
- Recharge system with refrigerant, check and test regulators, calibrate system and perform routine maintenance or servicing.
- Repair and replace parts and components for entire refrigeration, air conditioning, ventilation or heat pump systems.
- May install, maintain and repair equipment in refrigerated trucks used to transport food or medical supplies.
- May prepare work estimates for clients.
Sample job titles
- air conditioning and heating mechanic
- heating and cooling mechanic
- heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) mechanic
- refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic
- refrigeration and mechanical technician
- refrigeration mechanic
- refrigeration technician
- transport refrigeration technician
Skills
This work requires an understanding of the principles of electricity and a mechanical aptitude. You should be able to follow instructions and perform detailed work. A strong background in mathematics and the sciences is important. You should also have physical strength, stamina, and the ability to work at heights.
Job requirements
- Completion of high school is usually required.
- Completion of a three- to five-year apprenticeship program or a combination of over five years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in refrigeration and air conditioning repair is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
- Trade certification for refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics is compulsory in Nova Scotia.
- Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) is also available to qualified refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.
Other considerations
Workers may be self-employed and provide services as needed to their clients. Therefore, earnings may vary throughout the year and depend upon the person's ability to attract and retain customers. Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Annapolis Valley
Northern
Southern
Cape Breton
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
Northern
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Construction
Retail Trade
Public Administration
Educational Services
Wholesale Trade
What is the age of Employment?
25-34
45-54
55-64
35-44
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
35-44
55-64
25-34
Top levels of education
Trades certificate
$66,200 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$58,013 median annual incomeHigh school
$38,055 median annual incomeLess than high school
$42,061 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
N/ACompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Trades certificate
$40,890 median annual incomeHigh school
$28,089 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$39,023 median annual incomeLess than high school
$25,753 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$36,972 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult high school/secondary diploma programs
This program is typically offered at the high school level.The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) administers, coordinates, and supports the development and delivery of adult education programs through learning partners in Nova Scotia. Our learning partners include the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations that offer tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED, empowering Nova Scotians to achieve their learning and employment goals.
Institutions providing this program
Siège Social: 1695, Route 1
Pointe-de-l'Église, NS B0W 1M0
(902) 769-2114
PO Box 220
Halifax, NS B3J 2M4
(866) 679-6722
Various, NS
Various, NS
Heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration maintenance technology/technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, install, service and maintain the operating condition of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. These programs include courses in diagnostic techniques, the use of testing equipment and the principles of mechanics, electricity, and electronics as they relate to the repair of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Institutions providing this program
PO Box 550, 1 Main Street
Springhill, NS B0M 1X0
(902) 597-3737
21 Woodlawn Road
Dartmouth, NS B2W 2R7
(902) 491-4900
75 High Street
Bridgewater, NS B4V 1V8
(902) 543-4608
PO Box 1042, 1240 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1P 6J7
(902) 563-2450
Department of Labour and Advanced Education 2021 Brunswick Street, PO Box 578
Halifax, NS B3J 2S9
(800) 494-5651
80 Mawiomi Place
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5
(902) 491-1100
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Certificate of Qualification (Mandatory): This job is a regulated designated trade in Nova Scotia. Certification is required to work in this job.