Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic
Certificate of Qualification 313A
“I enjoy the versatility needed to be able to fix any air conditioning or heating problem that comes my way. It doesn’t hurt that we’re always in demand.”
Refrigeration & air conditioning systems mechanics install, maintain, and repair residential, commercial, and industrial central air conditioning systems. They cut piping and use welding and brazing equipment to connect pipes. They also recharge cooling systems with refrigerant gases. This work requires computer skills for calculating loads & adjusting controls.
Key Skills & Attributes
Strong communication, reading, numeracy & Strong problem-solving skills
Ability to read and understand blueprints & complex instructions
Physical strength & stamina
Ability to lift heavy materials and stand for long periods
Apprenticeship Program
9000 hours of on-the-job training, supplemented by three 8-week sessions of in-class technical training.
Responsibilities
Plan lays out, installs, starts-up, connects, maintains, services, repairs, tests, verifies, commissions and decommissions refrigeration and air conditioning systems, electronic components and their accessories
Installs and connects piping for the purpose of conveying all types of refrigerants used for both primary and secondary heating and cooling
Inspect & checks operation and integrity of components
Replace defective, leaking, discolored and worn components
Perform shut-downs and lock outs
Clean and lubricates components
● Measure, cuts, bends, threads and connects pipe to functional components and utilities and services
Entrance Requirements
Grade 12 Diploma preferred (Grade 10 minimum)
Journeyperson Wage Rate:
$55.95/Hr (2022)
Employment Sectors
Heavy Industrial Construction
Institutional and Commercial Construction
New home building and renovation
Self employed

Did you know?
HVAC Mechanics need to be multi-talented to understand the wide range of equipment used in the variety of cooling systems. They also perform essential work in our national goal to improve energy efficiency.