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OaSIS 2025 Version 1.0
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72402.00 – Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics

Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics install, maintain, repair and overhaul residential central air conditioning systems, commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning systems and combined heating, ventilation and cooling systems. Transport refrigeration mechanics are included in this unit group. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

Overview

Example job titles

  • Central air conditioning mechanic
  • Commercial air conditioning mechanic
  • Heating and cooling mechanic
  • Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) mechanic
  • Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic apprentice
  • Refrigeration mechanic
  • Transport refrigeration mechanic

Core competencies

  • Preventative Maintenance to understand heating, refrigeration and air conditioning (HVAC) machinery and its various mechanical or electrical components
  • Repairing and Troubleshooting to identify the root cause of problems, such as faulty thermostats, compressor issues or refrigerant leaks in order to fix them
  • Spatial Visualization to help understand and manipulate the arrangement of components within systems, such as ductwork or refrigeration lines
  • Hearing Sensitivity to detect unusual noises that may indicate a problem, such as a worn-out bearing or a loose part
  • Attention to Detail to ensure all components are aligned properly, connections are secure and systems are calibrated to meet performance specifications
  • Knowledge in Mechanics and Machinery to understand mechanical components and basic machinery operations, including routine maintenance, troubleshooting and simple repairs of heating, cooling and refrigeration systems

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings or other specifications
  • Measure and lay out reference points for installation
  • Assemble and install refrigeration or air conditioning components such as motors, controls, gauges, valves, circulating pumps, condensers, humidifiers, evaporators and compressors using hand and power tools
  • Measure and cut piping, and connect piping using welding and brazing equipment
  • Install, troubleshoot and overhaul entire heating, ventilation, air handling, refrigeration and air conditioning systems
  • Start up system and test for leaks using testing devices
  • Recharge system with refrigerant, check and test regulators, calibrate system and perform routine maintenance or servicing
  • Repair and replace parts and components for entire refrigeration, air conditioning, ventilation or heat pump systems
  • May install, maintain and repair equipment in refrigerated trucks used to transport food or medical supplies
  • May prepare work estimates for clients.

Additional information

  • The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
  • Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.

Similar occupations classified elsewhere

NOC hierarchy breakdown

NOC version

NOC 2021 Version 1.0

Broad occupational category

7 – Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations

TEER

2 – Occupations usually require a college diploma or apprenticeship training of two or more years; or supervisory occupations

Major group

72 – Technical trades and transportation officers and controllers

Sub-major group

724 – Technical maintenance trades

Minor group

7240 – Machinery and transportation equipment mechanics (except motor vehicles)

Unit group

72402 – Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics

Occupational profile

72402.00 – Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics

O*NET in-it

This page includes information from the O*NET 27.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Employment and Social Development Canada has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.