Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics install, maintain and service residential, commercial, industrial and institutional heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration units and systems. They also connect to air delivery systems, install and service hydronic and secondary refrigerant systems and associated controls. Their duties include laying out reference points for installation, assembling and installing components, installing wiring to connect components to an electric power supply and calibrating related controls. They also measure, cut, bend, thread and connect pipe to functional components and utilities. They maintain and service systems by inspecting and testing components, brazing and soldering parts to repair defective joints, adjusting and replacing worn or defective components and reassembling repaired components and systems. As part of service and commissioning, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics start-up, test, charge, adjust, calibrate, balance, measure, verify, maintain and document systems. Additional certification may be required in some jurisdictions to allow Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics to plan and perform the work described above. For detailed information on the scope of knowledge and skills taught and assessed in this program refer to the Program Outline, available on the SkilledTradesBC website.

Individuals who wish to begin an apprenticeship in this program must register with SkilledTradesBC along with their sponsor. Application forms for all programs are available from the SkilledTradesBC website. Online registration is also available for most programs through the SkilledTradesBC website. Those who wish to challenge the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic certification must complete the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Challenge Application and submit it to SkilledTradesBC. Challenge applications are assessed for proof of workplace hours and scope of experience prior to acceptance of the individual into the Challenge pathway.