How to Become an Air Conditioning Technician

Are you looking to start a career in the Air Conditioning industry? With the average salary of a qualified and experienced air conditioning technician being in the range of £35,000 to £42,000 and the demand for energy-efficient air conditioning rapidly increasing in the UK due to the country’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, it is the perfect time to start a career as an air conditioning technician. Read on to find out how to become an air conditioning technician.

Understanding the Role

Before delving into the technical aspects of the job, it’s important to understand what it entails to be an air conditioning technician. You will be responsible for ensuring that indoor environments remain comfortable and safe through the installation, maintenance, and repair of air conditioning systems. From domestic cooling units to complex commercial HVAC systems, their work directly impacts the well-being and productivity of occupants.

To gain insights into the profession, consider contacting experienced technicians, they will often be willing to provide advice or even work experience. This first-hand experience will provide valuable insights into the day-to-day duties, challenges, and rewards of working in the field. Additionally, exploring online resources, industry publications, and forums can help you stay informed about current trends and developments in the HVAC industry.

Refrigeration Training

Consider enrolling in a vocational training program focused on air conditioning systems. These programs are available at Ellis Training Works. Our training courses cover:

1. Refrigeration Principles: Understanding the principles of refrigeration is fundamental to working with both heating and air conditioning systems. Training in this area typically covers topics such as heat transfer, pressure-temperature relationships, and refrigerant properties.
2. System Installation: Learning how to install various types of split air conditioning systems. This training includes understanding system components, electrical testing, and proper installation techniques.
3. Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Training in maintenance procedures, including regular inspections, cleaning, and lubrication of system components. Additionally, learning how to diagnose and troubleshoot common issues such as compressor failure, refrigerant leaks, and airflow problems.
4. Environmental Regulations: Understanding environmental regulations related to refrigerants and their safe handling and disposal. This includes knowledge of regulations such as the UK F-Gas Regulation which governs the use of fluorinated gases in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems.

Refrigeration Certification

To become an air conditioning technician, you will need to complete the F-GAS certification. This is a legal requirement and a certification that Ellis Training Works provides. Obtaining industry-recognised certifications can enhance your credentials as an air conditioning technician. Organisations such as City & Guilds offer certification programs that validate your skills and knowledge in air conditioning systems. Additionally, manufacturers often offer product-specific certifications for their equipment.

Consider pursuing certifications in areas such as refrigerant handling, system installation, and maintenance procedures. These certifications not only demonstrate your competency to employers but also ensure that you adhere to industry standards and regulations. Additionally, staying updated on changes in legislation and technological advancements is essential for compliance and staying competitive in the field.

Continuing Professional Development

The air conditioning industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and regulations shaping the way air conditioning systems are designed, installed, and maintained. To stay ahead of the curve, invest in continuous professional development by attending workshops, seminars, and industry conferences. Keep abreast of emerging trends, energy-efficient solutions, and sustainable practices that are driving innovation in the field.

Networking with fellow professionals and joining industry associations can also provide valuable opportunities for learning and growth. Engage with online communities, participate in discussions, and share your experiences with others in the industry. By actively seeking out opportunities for learning and development, you can ensure that you remain a knowledgeable and skilled air conditioning technician throughout the course of your career.

Start Your Journey in Becoming an Air Conditioning Technician

Becoming an air conditioning technician in the UK requires a combination of education, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. By following these steps and investing in your training and qualifications, you can embark on a rewarding career in the air conditioning industry. Whether you’re installing cooling systems in homes or maintaining complex commercial air conditioning systems, your expertise will be essential in ensuring comfort and efficiency for occupants. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way, and continue to learn and grow as you establish yourself as a trusted professional in the field.

Book onto one of our courses today and start your journey as an air conditioning technician.

What is F-Gas Certification?

Fluorinated Gases (F-Gases) have long been recognised as significant contributors to global warming and ozone depletion. To mitigate their impact, regulatory bodies have instituted F-Gas certification. This certification ensures that individuals involved in handling, maintaining, or disposing of F-Gases are proficient in safe and environmentally responsible practices.

Ellis Training Works offers City & Guilds courses tailored to F-Gas certification requirements. These courses cover essential topics such as regulations, leak detection, recovery techniques, and disposal methods. By completing these courses, professionals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to comply with regulations and effectively manage F-Gases.

Importance of F-Gas Certification

F-Gas certification is the legal minimum requirement in the UK for working on refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems containing Fluorinated gases.

Ellis Training Works provide participants with practical insights into the latest industry standards and best practices. This knowledge equips them to minimise F-Gas emissions, enhance system efficiency, and ensure the safety of both personnel and the environment. Moreover, F-Gas certification enhances professional credibility and opens doors to lucrative career opportunities in the industry.

F-Gas Courses

Here at Ellis Training Works, we offer a 5-day City & Guilds F-Gas course (2079) and certification which does not expire. The course is suitable for new entrants to the industry and covers everything you need to know about installing, servicing, and leak checking systems.

Participants in our F-Gas courses receive training from highly experienced instructors. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical exercises, they acquire the skills necessary to handle F-Gases safely. Additionally, the certification carries industry-wide recognition, enhancing the credibility and marketability of certified professionals.

Enhanced Safety

Safety is paramount when working with F-Gases, which can pose significant risks if mishandled. F-Gas certification equips professionals with the expertise to implement robust safety protocols, minimising the likelihood of accidents and ensuring the well-being of personnel and the surrounding environment. The City & Guilds F-Gas course (2079) emphasise the importance of safety measures and provide practical insights into risk management strategies.

By undergoing F-Gas certification training, individuals learn to identify potential hazards, implement preventive measures, and respond effectively to emergencies. This approach to safety promotes a culture of awareness and preparedness within organisations, reducing downtime and liability associated with accidents.

F-Gas Efficiency and Wastage

Efficient management of F-gases is essential for environmental sustainability, system performance optimisation, and operational cost reduction. F-Gas courses delve into techniques for minimising F-gas usage, optimising system efficiency, and extending equipment lifespan. By implementing these strategies, businesses can achieve significant cost savings while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint.

Professionals certified through F-Gas courses are equipped with the expertise to identify opportunities for system optimisation and implement targeted interventions. This proactive approach enhances operational efficiency and strengthens the competitive edge of businesses in an increasingly sustainability-conscious market.

Sustainability and Excellence

F-Gas certification represent a commitment to sustainability, excellence, and regulatory compliance. By acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to handle F-Gases responsibly, professionals play a crucial role in mitigating climate change impacts and safeguarding the environment. Through our F-Gas courses, individuals can embark on a journey towards a greener, safer, and more prosperous future for themselves and the planet.

Career Advancement Opportunities

F-Gas certification opens doors to various career advancement opportunities within the refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump industries. Employers value professionals with the expertise to handle F-Gases safely and responsibly, making F-Gas certification a valuable asset for career progression. The City & Guilds certification we provide is recognised for its high standards and enhances the employability of certified professionals.

Take a look at our F-Gas courses and book in today!

Women in Refrigeration

During the same week that we celebrated International Women’s Day (8th March) we were honoured to have two women join us for their F Gas qualification.

While they were by no means the first women to come through our doors to complete their training, like buses two came at once!  It was purely coincidental that they both chose to come on the same course but it was good to see them.

Well done to both and here’s wishing you all the best for future success in this vibrant exciting industry.

29/01/46 – 22/03/2022

We lost a dear friend and colleague of 50 years yesterday.  Mike Pinch was dearly loved by us and his students alike whose number are numerous.  Thanks to his expertise they have had a wonderful start in this industry to which he added so much, in so many ways.

Goodbye Dear Man.

Welcome All!

This week sees our second group of F Gas students and our 15 day delegates in centre.  It feels great to be back and doing what we love and meeting so many great guys.  With our rigorous COVID regime in place, everyone is safe in the knowledge that they can train without worrying.  See you soon!

30th Birthday Today!!

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

We are proud to be celebrating our 30th Birthday today! 🎉 We are also looking forward to welcoming new team members, new courses and new students in 2021! Excited about an epic year ahead!!

Happy New Year all! 🎉

The R is down and we are UP and Open!

Whilst we have been providing online training to some of our Diploma students throughout this latest lockdown, we are very excited to be welcoming our students back into the centre on Monday 7th December!

Lockdown 2.0 News

Although we have strict COVID-19 secure measures in place and have done everything we can to keep our students and staff safe and well in these unprecedented times, in light of this second lockdown, we have taken the difficult decision to close our doors for face to face training until these lockdown measures have eased again.

Obviously our courses are mostly practically based and therefore can only be done remotely in a limited manner.  We draw candidates from all over the country and therefore need to do our part to limit the spread of the virus as best we can.  Rest assured we will be rescheduling each and every course and will be in contact with you as soon as we can book you in. Dates will be offered in chronological order to those who still want to proceed, or a full refund will be offered.  Contact the office to discuss your training with a member of our team for more details.

In the meantime we will continue to train our Diploma Students online with the theory elements of their course and will be busy planning and preparing content for our new and exciting courses that we will be launching in 2021!  Watch this space!

ITS NOT GAS, ITS REFRIGERANT!

I am constantly being told by heating/gas engineers and plumbers that ‘they know all about gas’.  Therefore, they won’t have a problem, they already know all about it.

While refrigerant is often called gas, it is NOT!

Anyone who has attended here with this misconceived idea has had a shock and they quickly tell us ‘it’s nothing like gas’ which is quite correct.

Likewise, with brazing, it’s nothing like soldering copper pipe.

And by the way, nor is the pressure the same! We are talking about systems that work up to 40 bar and need to be tested up to 42 bar??

With so much new to learn, candidates also need to understand the ‘F Gas’ is a basic entry level qualification about how to handle refrigerants ONLY, why the legislation is there and how to protect the environment.  It does NOT make you an air conditioning engineer!

Reopening 29th June 2020

We are very glad to welcome our students back on 29th June with all our Covid-19 measures in place (now the new normal!)

COVID-19 News 20th May 2020

Currently, Government advice is that limited numbers of school children may be returning to school on 1^st June, with the possibility of some 16-19 year olds returning.

They advise that further education colleges may ‘begin some face to face support with year 10 and 12 pupils (only), although we do not expect these pupils to return on a full-time basis at this stage’.

This position will be reviewed on 30th May when further information will be available.

We are obviously anxious to reopen but regard too swift a reopening to be reckless as we must safeguard the health of our staff and students alike.  To this end we will obviously be working within Public Health England and Government guidelines, our COVID-19 Risk Assessment is available.

Training will look quite different going forward, as too will our Training Centre, where we are currently setting the scene for the ‘new normal’.

Watch this space for further updates.

Closed BUT Open for Business

We unfortunately had to close our doors to students on Friday 20^th March 2020 however we are very much open for business and are here to take your calls and enquires regarding your training requirements so please do get in touch if we can be of any assistance.

These are worrying times for us all but going forward we must look to the future and training will be very much a part of that.

Go carefully and stay well.