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Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics
Unit Group
ANZSCO CODE - 3421

Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics assemble, install, maintain and repair industrial, commercial and domestic airconditioning and refrigeration systems and equipment.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Registration or licensing may be required.

Tasks Include:

  • establishing job requirements from drawings and specifications, and laying out installation reference points
  • drilling holes, installing mounting brackets and cutting, bending and threading piping
  • installing and repairing components such as compressors, motors, condensers, evaporators, switches and gauges, and copper lines for steam, gas, refrigerant, compressed air, oil and chilled water
  • bolting, soldering, riveting, welding and brazing pipes to connect equipment, and checking alignment and accuracy of fit
  • filling systems with gas or fluid to check for leaks
  • test-operating refrigeration systems, checking mechanisms and making adjustments
  • removing test gas and fluid using vacuum pumps, and filling with refrigerant
  • checking and overhauling refrigeration systems, diagnosing faults and repairing and replacing defective components
  • adjusting system controls and mechanisms and reassembling systems
  • recording causes of malfunctioning and action taken