Air-conditioning and Refrigeration

As an Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic, you install, service and repair air-conditioning and refrigeration systems in homes, shops, offices, and industrial workplaces.

Your work can include installing split and ducted air-conditioning systems, maintaining commercial refrigeration equipment, finding and fixing faults, and making sure systems run safely and efficiently.

Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics use practical and problem-solving skills to keep indoor spaces comfortable, improve air quality, and protect food and goods. They may also advise customers on energy-efficient options and system upgrades.

Income Guide

$110,000

Desirable Skills

Physical Tasks • Problem Solving • Working at Heights • Maths • Using Tools

A typical day may involve:

Reading plans and system diagrams to understand installation or repair tasks
Travelling to homes, schools, shops or workplaces to install or service air-conditioning systems
Installing split and ducted air-conditioners and commercial refrigeration units
Drilling, mounting units, running pipes and fitting ductwork
Connecting wiring, controls and drainage
Checking refrigerant levels and system pressures
Using hand tools and testing equipment to find and fix faults
Cleaning, servicing and maintaining systems to keep them running efficiently
Replacing parts such as fans, motors, filters or thermostats
Testing systems to make sure they are cooling or heating properly
Talking with customers about how to use and care for their system

Qualifications

Pre-qualification Cert II Electrotechnology
Cert III Air-conditioning/Refrigeration

What is involved in my Qualification

4-Year Paid Apprenticeship
Trade School
On the job, hands-on experience on construction sites

Career Pathways

Electrician
Site Supervisor
Technical Advisor
Estimator

Further Qualifications

Diploma of Electrical Engineering
Business Owner (Contractors Licence)
Builder (Builders Licence)
Trainer/Assessor (TAE Qualification)

“A trade isn’t an overnight success story, it’s a journey. If you’re willing to work hard, ask questions, and back yourself, a trade can take you anywhere.”

Born to Build