Climate Control Mechanics are skilled workers who install, service, and repair air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating units used in homes, schools, and commercial and industrial buildings. They may be called heating and cooling mechanics.

JOB DUTIES

Climate Control Mechanics may:

Diagnose causes of breakdown

Test parts with instruments

Disassemble and assemble parts

Make necessary repairs

Measure and cut openings for windows

Drill holes to mount units

Lift parts into position

Screw, bolt, weld, and braze parts

Cut, thread, and connect pipe to units

Connect motors to control panels

Connect control panels to power source

Adjust valves

Lubricate machinery

Click hereto view a brief video.

Tools, equipment, and work aids used may include:

Materials used by Climate Control Mechanics may include:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Climate Control Mechanics may specialize in these areas:

637.261-026 REFRIGERATION MECHANICS install, service, and repair industrial and commercial refrigerating and cooling systems in supermarkets, freezer plants, and other industrial establishments.

637.261-014 ENVIRONMENTAL-CONTROL-SYSTEM INSTALLER-SERVICERS install, service, and repair commercial air-conditioning units in stores, office buildings, schools, churches, and other large establishments.

637.261-030 SOLAR-ENERGY-SYSTEMS INSTALLERS install and repair energy systems which collect, store, and circulate solar-heated water or other mediums for residential, commercial, or industrial use.

637.261-014 DOMESTIC AIR-CONDITIONING INSTALLERS service and install window- or central-air-conditioning units in private residences and small business establishments.

637.261-010 AIR-CONDITIONING-WINDOW-UNIT INSTALLER-SERVICERS repair and service small domestic air-conditioning units.

869.281-010 WARM-AIR FURNACE INSTALLERS-AND-REPAIRERS install and service warm air furnaces, stoves, and similar equipment.

862.281-018 OIL-BURNER-SERVICERS-AND-INSTALLERS install and service automatic oil burners in furnaces in homes and commercial establishments.

With increasing emphasis on the conservation of energy, some Climate Control Mechanics will be installing and maintaining solar heating and cooling units for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may find it helpful to explore the following Career Exploration Scripts:

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Climate Control Mechanics work in a variety of places and situations. They may work on ground floors, on roof tops, in customers' homes, or in office buildings. They usually are required to lift heavy objects as well as stoop, crawl, or crouch when making installations.

Some of the hazards of the trade are burns, falls, and electric shocks, falls, exposure to refrigerants, and the dangers that come from lifting heavy objects.

In Michigan, the average workweek for Climate Control Mechanics is 40 hours, usually from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Overtime is common during busy seasons and when equipment breaks down. Mechanics who work on both heating and air-conditioning units will have more opportunities than those who specialize in only one area.

Although most Climate Control Mechanics work in open (non-union) shops, many Mechanics join either The United Association of Journeyman and Apprentices of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Industry of the United States and Canadaor The Sheet Metal Workers Union. To become members, workers must pass an examination requiring knowledge gained from about five years of work experience. Union members must pay dues.

You Should Prefer:

• Activities involving the use of equipment, processes, or methods

• Activities which bring satisfaction from working on/producing things

You Should Be Able To:

• Look at drawings/pictures/visualize how they would look as objects

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

• Perform a variety of duties which may often change

• Rate information using measurable standards

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

The speed of a centrifugal compressor is changed from 1,000 to 3,000 rpm. If the compressor originally delivered 2,000 cfm, what will the new delivery be?

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

In the conduction and convection mechanisms, the transfer of heat is associated with matter. For radiant heat transfer, however, a change in energy form takes place, from internal energy at the source to electromagnetic energy for transmission then back to internal energy at the receiver.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Prepare a written estimate for a heating unit installation for a potential customer.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Should be able to demonstrate analytical skills and be detail oriented in installing, maintaining, and repairing climate control equipment.

To qualify as a Climate Control Mechanic, a person may become certified through a postsecondary program or complete a 4-year apprenticeship program. Self-employed Mechanics must obtain a mechanical contractor license from the State of Michigan. A local license may be required or may be an asset.

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EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer; a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education Classes; a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school); an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) or an Apprenticeship (usually three to four years of training beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the Career Exploration Script:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0300 AUTOMOTIVE , 0500 BUILDING TRADES , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 1200 ELECTRONICS , 2300 METALS , 2900 SCIENCE , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

036 HEATING/AIR/REFRIGERATION MECHANICS

Approved vocational education programs in Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics prepare students to install, repair, and maintain the operating condition of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Included is instruction in the theory and application of principles involved in conditioning of air; cooling, heating, filtering, and controlling humidity; the operating characteristics of various units and parts; blueprint reading; the use of technical reference manuals; the diagnosis of malfunctions; the overhaul, repair, and adjustment of units and parts such as pumps, compressors, valves, springs, and connections; and the repair of electric and pneumatic control systems.

Courses in other trade and industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.

High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

035 CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING TECHNICIAN

Construction and Building Technology programs provide opportunities to gain the needed knowledge and skills for employment in the many different types of construction and building jobs. Individuals who teach Construction and Building Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses within this program will vary but may include:

076 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING, & REFRIGERATION

Programs in Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed for employment related to the design, construction, application, and maintenance of heating and cooling systems. Program #35, Construction and Building Technology, identifies similar opportunities.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

                Search for a College and/or Instructional Program

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

001 AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING/REFRIGERATION MECHANICS

Some people enter occupations within this Career Exploration Script through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM

002 AIR-&-HYDRONIC B ALANCING TECHNICIAN

Most people enter occupations within this Career Exploration Script through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM

***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***

Please check the Military web site at http://www.myfuture.com.

HEATING AND COOLING MECHANICS

Air conditioning and heating equipment is used to maintain comfortable temperatures in military buildings, airplanes, and ships. Refrigeration equipment is used to keep food cold and to keep some missile fuels at sub-zero storage temperatures. Heating and cooling mechanics install and repair air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating equipment.

What They Do

Heating and cooling mechanics in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Install and repair furnaces, boilers, and air conditioners

• Recharge cooling systems with refrigerant gases

• Install copper tubing systems that circulate water or cooling gases

• Replace compressor parts such as valves, pistons, bearings, and electrical motors on refrigeration units

• Repair thermostats and electrical circuits

Physical Demands

Heating and cooling mechanics may have to lift or move heavy equipment. They are often required to stoop, kneel and work in cramped positions. Normal color vision is required for locating and repairing color-coded wiring.

Helpful Attributes

Helpful school subjects include science, math, and shop mechanics. Helpful attributes include:

• Ability to use hand and power tools

• Interest in working on machines

• Interest in solving problems

Work Environment

Heating and cooling mechanics may work inside repair shops. Frequently, they work wherever equipment is to be installed or repaired.

Training Provided

Job training consists of classroom instruction, including practice in repair work. Training length varies depending on specialty. Course content typically includes:

• Refrigeration theory

• Installation and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning units

• Installation and repair of furnaces and boilers

• Use of diagrams and blueprints

Additional training is available on the job and in advanced courses. The Army, Navy, and Marine Corps offer certified apprenticeship programs for some specialties in this occupation.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian heating and cooling mechanics work for contractors that install home furnaces and air conditioners or for firms that repair refrigerators and freezers in homes, grocery stores, factories, and warehouses. Heating and cooling mechanics in civilian life often specialize more than those in the military. They may be called hearing, air conditioning, refrigeration, or climate control mechanics.

Opportunities

The military employs many heating and cooling mechanics. After job training, mechanics maintain and repair equipment under supervision. With experience, they may learn to diagnose mechanical problems and perform complicated repairs. Eventually, they may become superintendents or utilities for large bases.  

E-Learning Courses and Programs

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OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

Secondary vocational education programs in heating, air-conditioner, refrigeration mechanics offer an opportunity to gain experience. Postsecondary programs in heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration, and construction and building technology may sometimes offer co-op, internship, or other related work experience opportunities. The military services or a formal apprenticeship program offer experience also. Part-time work in service shops is another possibility.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Climate Control Mechanic employer

internships

volunteer work with a Climate Control Mechanic employer

community service work with an agency

Obtaining certification by completing a postsecondary program in heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) is the most common method of entering this occupation. Once certified a worker may apply to an employer as a trainee. Completing a formal apprenticeship is another method of entry.

In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

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EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Earnings vary depending on skill and experience, type of equipment being repaired, and geographic area. Wages are higher for unionized employees and also for skilled electricians, pipefitters, or sheet metal workers who have specialized in climate control.

Nationally, the median weekly earnings of Climate Control Mechanics were about $804 in 2008, which is $20.10 per hour, based on a 40-hour workweek. Earnings in Michigan were comparable to national wages. The median weekly earnings of "all" workers in the U.S. were $722 in 2008.

Climate Control Mechanics employed by the State of Michigan and local governments earned hourly wage rates (mid 2009) of:

In 2008, Refrigeration Mechanics employed in Michigan earned an average salary of $22.61 per hour.

In the auto industry, the hourly wage rates (late 2009) for unionized air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers ranged between $26.97 and $31.17 per hour. Workers also received an additional cost-of-living allowance.

The 2007 graduates of Michigan vocational education programs who were working in jobs related to this occupation earned a beginning average of $9.15 per hour in 2008.

Depending on the employer, Mechanics may receive paid vacations and holidays; paid sick leave; life, health, accident and disability insurance; and retirement plans. Uniforms and safety equipment may also be provided. These benefits are usually paid for, at least in part, by the employer.

The career ladder for Climate Control Mechanics may be: apprentice/ trainee Climate Control Mechanic; estimator; maintenance supervisor; service manager; or contractor. A Climate Control Mechanic frequently begins in smaller residential or light commercial work and then progresses to larger industrial and commercial work. Other opportunities could be found as city/county inspectors, manufacturer service specialists, or as self-employed Mechanics.

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EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

Nationally in 2006, the estimated employment of Climate Control Mechanics was about 43,000. Little or no change is expected in employment through the year 2016, with most openings for air conditioning and refrigeration Mechanics. Employment of Furnace Installers should follow the growth trends in new construction of homes and businesses. The industry distribution for Climate Control Mechanics looked like this:

To find employers, click Employer/Business Locator.

Environmentally unsafe refrigerants are slowly being substituted and there will be a need to redesign units which use the substitute fluids. Overall, the activity in the air-conditioning, heating and refrigeration industry continues on a high level. These factors should mean more work for Climate Control Mechanics.

There are approximately 1,275Climate Control Mechanics employed in Michigan. Most worked in urban areas. They were employed by air-conditioning, heating, refrigeration, plumbing, and construction contractors. Some worked for electrical and appliance repair shops, automobile manufacturers, suppliers of heating and cooling equipment, and real estate companies. They were also employed to maintain systems of hospital, commercial, and government buildings.

Little to no change in employment for it is expected for Climate Control Mechanics through the year 2016.. There will be an average of 20 annual job openings, with all openings 0 due to replacement of those who retire or leave the labor force. In late 2008, there were 74 Apprentices in training for this occupation, and 7 completed the apprentice program during the prior 12 months. Additional openings will occur as workers transfer to other jobs or occupations. There is a shortage of climate control mechanics in Michigan and this is expected to continue for several years.

Refrigeration is needed not only for preserving food, but also in the manufacture of rubber, oil, gasoline, medicine, and drugs. The necessity of finding new ways of servicing and using refrigeration in order to save energy and combat pollution will encourage new job opportunities.

MICHIGAN'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2006-2016

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SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  Copyright © 2009 Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth