In Western Australia, our hot summers mean our air conditioners get put to plenty of use! Therefore, you’ll never find a shortage of jobs available in the industry. So, if you’re thinking of becoming an air conditioner installer, here’s everything you need to know.
What does work look like for air conditioning technicians?
An air conditioning technician’s job is to install, maintain and repair air conditioners. This includes evaporative coolers, split systems and ducted air conditioning units.
Your day-to-day tasks will depend on the type of air conditioner you’re working with, but may include:
- Attending to call outs or emergency repairs at residential homes, businesses and industrial sites
- Assessing the problem and providing a quote for repair or replacement
- Carrying out repairs, such as fixing leaks, cleaning coils and soldering electrical components
- Installing new air conditioners, including testing and commissioning
- Maintaining air conditioners to prevent breakdowns, such as cleaning filters and topping up
- You may be working with other refrigeration products such as commercial freezes and cool rooms
Qualifications required to become an air conditioning technician
You’ll need to complete a Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration from a registered training organisation as part of an apprenticeship. This generally takes 3-4 years. You will also need to obtain an Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) licence to handle refrigerant gases and work as a licensed air conditioning technician. In addition, AC installers and technicians in Australia are required to obtain a Restricted Electrical Licence upon completion of their apprenticeship. This is regulated by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety. You may also undertake further study to learn more about other jobs within refrigeration.
Skills Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technicians Require
Attention to detail
When it comes to working with small parts and delicate machinery, an eye for detail is key.
Passion for the trade
A career in air conditioning isn’t just a job – it’s a passion. If you have a genuine interest in the trade and enjoy working with your hands, then this could be the perfect role.
Good customer service skills
You’ll be dealing with customers on a regular basis, so it’s important that you have good people skills. If you enjoy helping others and solving problems, then this is the role for you.
Physically fit
As an air conditioning technician, you’ll be required to do a lot of lifting, carrying and climbing. You’ll need to be physically fit and comfortable working in tight spaces.
Punctual and reliable
Your customers will be relying on you, so it’s important that you can be punctual and reliable. If you’re the type of person who is always on time and takes pride in your work, then this is the role for you.
Types of jobs you may work on as a HVAC technician
Commercial
You could be working on industrial air conditioning systems in large commercial buildings such as hotels, offices, factories and shopping centres.
Residential
You could also be working on a variety of different air conditioning systems in residential properties such as both ducted and split system units.
Construction sites
You may be required to install new air conditioning systems in homes and businesses under construction.
Refrigeration
You could also have the opportunity to work with refrigeration systems in many different types of premises such as supermarkets, restaurants and food processing plants
Depending on the sector you decide to specialise in, the qualifications and experience needed to become an aircon installer may vary depending on the type of work that needs to be done. Generally, most employers will require a completed apprenticeship and Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.
Looking For a Change in Scenery? Enquire About Joining the Busselton Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Family
If you’re looking for work in air conditioning and refrigeration, the Busselton Refrigeration & Air Conditioning team can help you make a successful transition. We are always looking for self-motivated individuals who want to join our dynamic, growing family and we welcome applicants of all ages and experience levels. Get in contact with our friendly team to learn more.