Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

A common pathway is to finish secondary school, with courses in math, physics, shop, or drafting helping build useful skills. Many students then take a college or other post-secondary program in refrigeration, HVAC, or a related trade, if available in their province. Others may enter through employer training and gain experience as an apprentice or helper under supervision. Early work usually focuses on reading plans, using hand and power tools, measuring and cutting piping, and learning to install, test, troubleshoot, and maintain systems. Some employers may prefer related experience or additional training.

THE WORK

What you may do

Legacy 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
• Start up 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.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career