What’s a Refrig. Tech?

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When a refrigeration unit in a home or business requires repair or maintenance, a refrigeration technician is usually contacted to assess the condition of the machine and make repairs. Generally, he should analyze the malfunction, explain the problem to the owner or manager, and recommend options. These options typically include repair, replacement of parts, or scrapping the entire unit, as they are not worth the cost of repairs. Typically, the technician is expected to have a good understanding of these alternatives through experience and education.

Once the problem is described, a refrigeration technician will usually run a series of tests to isolate the source of the malfunction. This usually entails checking connections and lines for leaks. He also often uses thermometers to check temperatures in different areas of the unit. Other test devices are often used to measure pressure and airflow levels.

If these tests do not detect defects, the technician will usually continue with other methods of analyzing the system. He typically disassembles each section of the cooling system and individually tests the parts and components. This investigation usually involves the use of pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical examination tools. Parts of a refrigeration unit that usually require repair or replacement include cooling lines, evaporators, and tubes. Compressors, motors and condensing units are also regular sources of cooling problems.

Depending on the nature of the problem, a refrigeration technician uses various skills related to his profession to troubleshoot problems. If a part or part of the unit is only slightly damaged, he can usually make repairs using soldering or brazing tools. The same applies to leaks in pipes or conduits. Repairing or adjusting these components is typically significantly less expensive than replacing them.

A refrigeration technician may also be required to read and interpret blueprints and schematics to effectively perform their job. If he suspects that the problem stemmed from faulty wiring, it may be necessary to study floor plans of the room in which the refrigeration unit is located to determine the wiring pattern. The unit’s own schematics may require interpretation if the problem is suspected to be internal.

Efficient record keeping is essential to the success of a refrigeration technician. He is regularly asked to document defects and replacement parts to justify repair costs. If a unit is under warranty, he will normally be required to submit detailed documentation to support the claim. Filling out work orders and parts requisition forms is also a normal part of a technician’s job.

While in some situations it is still possible to become a refrigeration technician through on-the-job training, most employers require technical education or formal apprenticeship training to qualify for the position. Certificates in handling hazardous materials may also be required as certain refrigerants can be toxic. Good mechanical aptitude demonstrated in previous positions is highly valued.

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