Refrigeration mechanics install, maintain, and repair refrigeration equipment in residential and commercial buildings. They use blueprints and schematics, diagnostic equipment, and specialized tools to troubleshoot and repair systems. They may need to hold a license and work weekends and after hours. Safety precautions are necessary due to the hazards involved.
A refrigeration mechanic is responsible for the maintenance and installation of climate control refrigeration equipment in residential and commercial buildings. Refrigeration systems are used for cooling buildings, restaurant kitchens and other large-scale climate control devices. The complexity of these systems requires special expertise to install and repair, and as such, refrigeration mechanics are hired to change component parts, build new units, and perform basic maintenance on refrigeration machines. Mechanics can be employed full-time by companies that use refrigeration devices, or they can work for a company that fulfills service contracts and responds to repair calls as needed.
As there are many varied types of refrigeration machines, a refrigeration mechanic is usually well-versed in both basic and complex layouts of different systems. Also, working on cooling systems in buildings can require removal and replacement of ceiling and duct work. A refrigeration mechanic will interpret and use blueprints and schematics to install new systems and repair and replace component parts.
Diagnostic equipment is often used by a refrigeration mechanic to determine and troubleshoot system problems. Cooling machines use compressors and motors that must be regularly maintained and may require the use of special tools and electronic devices by a refrigeration mechanic to install and repair. Climate equipment has both mechanical and electrical equipment, and a refrigeration mechanic can choose to specialize in either type or gain additional specialization in specific types of systems. In addition to working for a company that owns climate equipment or works in a repair service, refrigeration mechanics can be self-employed.
Depending on local rules and regulations, refrigeration mechanics may be required to hold and maintain a license issued by a regional authority. Most mechanics learn from on-the-job training and may need to routinely renew their license to meet requirements. High school is completed by most mechanics, and some have additional training from a trade school or community college.
The work week for a refrigeration mechanic may not be typical and requires working weekends and after hours as there may be emergency issues and repairs needed. Businesses may also prefer to have installation and repair work done after closure so as not to disrupt normal workflow and customer experiences. The work isn’t at a desk or in an office either, as refrigeration mechanics often work on machines and systems on site. As electrical systems and moving parts of machinery are frequently worked on, there are some hazards involved with the nature of the work, and extreme safety precautions must be taken at all times. Safety equipment such as hard hats, gloves and goggles must be worn daily by a refrigeration mechanic in response to the work environment.
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