Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Mechanics

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 work for heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning installation contractors, various industrial settings, food wholesalers, engineering firms and retail and servicing companies. Transport refrigeration mechanics are included in this group.

Job duties

Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics:

• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, or other specifications.
• Measure and lay out reference points for installation.
• Assemble and install refrigeration or air conditioning components like 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

• Writing and oral communication.
• Problem solving.
• Eye for detail.
• Ability to be independent and self-directed.
• Coordination and manual dexterity.
• Mechanical and mathematical aptitude.
• Understanding of the principles of electricity.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Good physical condition and strength to lift heavy components.
• Ability to work at heights.
• Ability to work with others and deal with customers.
• Ability to drive a service truck to worksites.

Job requirements

• High school or equivalent (usually).
• Training through a 7,200-hour apprenticeship program with four apprenticeship levels: to become an apprentice you first need to have a job - enter an apprenticeship agreement either directly through an employer or after graduating from a college-level pre-apprenticeship program; learn on the job, mentored by a certified journeyperson who signs off on skills in a logbook.
• Trade Qualifier option, 10,800 hours and other criteria.
• Certification for refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics is compulsory in Nova Scotia.
• Write and score a minimum of 70% on the Red Seal exam for refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics.
• Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) allows for interprovincial mobility.

Other considerations

• Setting: varies from one job to another. Mechanics may work in compressor rooms, on rooftops, refrigerated trucks, and in clean computer rooms. Their work can be indoors and outdoors and may require travel.
• Work hours: full-time, year-round usually.
• Risks: working at heights and in confined spaces, some risk of injury from lifting and moving heavy items or working with electricity, gases under high pressure, and hazardous gases.
• Mechanics must be aware of the physical demands and potential for personal injury when completing tasks.
• Much of the work is done independently.
• Changes in technology and materials require continuous learning to keep up with new repair and servicing techniques.
• Experienced mechanics may advance to supervisory positions or start their own business. They may act as mentors or trainers of apprentices in the trade.
• Apprentices usually earn a percentage of the journeyperson (fully qualified) rate. This percentage increases as each level of the apprenticeship program is completed.
• Everyone has fair access to participate and succeed in the apprenticeship system. Everyone who develops the necessary skills and abilities should be able to succeed in the trades and trade qualification system. Work environments in the province support women and equity-seeking communities.

Regulations

Contacts