Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics

Snapshot

Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics assemble, install, maintain and repair industrial, commercial and domestic airconditioning and refrigeration systems and equipment.

Job stats
How many people employed?	22500
What are the weekly earnings for full-time workers ($ before tax)?	$920
How does unemployment compare with other occupations?	average
What is the vacancy level?	average
What are the job prospects?	good

Tasks

This occupation may include associated occupations with varying tasks.

• establishing job requirements from drawings and specifications, and laying out installation reference points
• drilling holes, installing mounting brackets and cutting, bending and threading piping
• installing and repairing components such as compressors, motors, condensers, evaporators, switches and gauges, and copper lines for steam, gas, refrigerant, compressed air, oil and chilled water
• bolting, soldering, riveting, welding and brazing pipes to connect equipment, and checking alignment and accuracy of fit
• filling systems with gas or fluid to check for leaks
• test-operating refrigeration systems, checking mechanisms and making adjustments
• removing test gas and fluid using vacuum pumps, and filling with refrigerant
• checking and overhauling refrigeration systems, diagnosing faults and repairing and replacing defective components
• adjusting system controls and mechanisms and reassembling systems
• recording causes of malfunctioning and action taken

Job Titles

• Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic