Overview
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 unit group. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.
This group performs 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
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.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$39,626
$66,739
$98,023
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
436expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school and training courses or a vocational program is usually required.
Completion of a three- to five-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over five years of work experience and 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, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta and available, but voluntary, in all other provinces and the territories.
Additional information
The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics in B.C.
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Red Seal Certification
Skilled Trades Certification - Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic in B.C., you will need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.