Thursday, May 1, 2014

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics Job Responsibilities and Education Prerequisites

Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics are employed with engineering firms, food manufacturers and wholesalers, retail and servicing establishments, refrigeration and air-conditioning contractors and various other manufacturing firms and industrial settings. Their typical work activities include:
  • Assembling and installing air conditioning, refrigeration, heating and ventilation units and components
  • Troubleshooting and overhauling air conditioning systems
  • Conducting leakage tests using testing devices
  • Calibrating systems and performing routine health checks
  • Conducting feasibility studies
  • Preparing cost estimates for clients
  • Repairing the air-conditioning and ventilating systems and replacing defected parts whenever required
  • Planning, preparing and laying out heating or cooling systems
  • Identifying system malfunctions
  • Recording and reporting faults and other unusual occurrences in the systems
  • Recommending, developing and performing preventive maintenance procedures
  • Generating work orders to resolve problems
  • Inspecting and testing systems in compliance with plans and specifications
  • Adhering to applicable standards, safety procedures and policies
Career Prospects

Most businesses depend on climate controlled systems. Besides this, most people reside in temperature controlled houses. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to keep these systems in order. The career prospects in this field are bright as job opportunities are expected to increase in the coming years. While the existing mechanics have accumulated skills and experience after years of working, there is a shortage of young people who already have formal educational qualifications and hands-on-experience. Employers are keen on hiring professionals who possess technical expertise and have business and communication skills.

This is because the role of air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics goes beyond just installing, implementing, troubleshooting and repairing air-conditioning systems. Along with being mechanics, they also act as company representatives when dealing with customers.

Generally known as HVAC technicians, the heating and refrigeration mechanics find roles in all residential, commercial and industrial settings. However, they have to complete minimum required education and training to enter into this field and build a rewarding career.

Refrigeration Mechanic Courses in Canada

Although the refrigeration and heating mechanics learn on-the-job but there are a variety of apprenticeship programs in refrigeration and air conditioning that teach students ins and outs of heating and cooling systems designing, installation and service techniques.

Centennial College's three-year diploma in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems is a traditional apprentice program that mainly consists of on-the-job training with an employer. In addition, the students also attend classroom lectures to understand about the properties of metals and the functioning of heating, cooling and ventilation systems.

In-school sessions are conducted at state-of-the-art facilities. The course is designed in such a manner that it gives students the opportunities to earn while they learn.

Enrollment Guide

In order to enroll in a refrigeration mechanic courses in Canada, your employer must sponsor your apprenticeship. You will have to contact the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities as apprentices do not directly apply with the college. Besides, you will be scheduled into your college sessions by the Ministry of Training only.

On the completion of your apprenticeship, you will be eligible to write exam for your certificate of qualification. You will be certified in your chosen operation by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities only if you pass this exam.

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