How To Become a Chiller Mechanic: Step-by-Step Guide

Chiller mechanics are responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of industrial and commercial cooling systems. These systems are essential for a variety of businesses, including food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals and data centers. Chiller mechanics must have a strong understanding of how these systems work in order to troubleshoot and repair them when necessary. In this article, we discuss what a chiller mechanic does, the average salary and how to become one.

What Does a Chiller Mechanic Do?

Chiller mechanics are responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of large industrial cooling systems called chillers. Chillers use a variety of different refrigerants and coolants to remove heat from an area or object, making them essential for many industries such as food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals and semiconductor manufacturing. Chiller mechanics typically work in commercial or industrial settings and may be required to travel to multiple job sites on a daily basis.

The duties of a chiller mechanic include:

• Installing new chillers according to manufacturer specifications
• Connecting chillers to existing HVAC systems
• Testing chillers to ensure they are operating properly
• Troubleshooting and repairing chillers when necessary
• Replacing worn or damaged parts
• Maintaining records of all maintenance and repair activities
• Inspecting chillers on a regular basis to identify potential problems
• Providing training to other staff members on proper chiller operation and maintenance

Chiller Mechanic Salary and Job Outlook

The average salary for a chiller mechanic is $64,375. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, education, and geographical location.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of chiller mechanics will decline over the next decade. This may be due to advances in technology which result in more reliable and efficient equipment that requires less maintenance.

How to Become a Chiller Mechanic

Here are several steps you should take to become a chiller mechanic.

1. Earn a high school diploma or equivalent

A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum education requirement for this role. Some HVAC training programs offer an associate’s degree, which may be helpful if you want to pursue a career as a mechanical engineer. If you are interested in pursuing higher education, consider taking classes related to HVAC and mechanical engineering while still in high school to help you prepare for college.

2. Consider completing an HVAC training program

While a high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum education requirement for this position, many employers prefer chiller mechanics to have HVAC training. There are several HVAC training programs available at vocational schools and community colleges that can teach you about HVAC systems and prepare you for entry-level positions in this field.

Some of these programs offer hands-on experience working with HVAC equipment. You may also consider enrolling in an apprenticeship program where you learn from experienced HVAC technicians as well as complete coursework on HVAC systems.

3. Obtain certification from a professional organization, such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)

The ACCA offers a variety of certifications for HVAC technicians, including the Certified Technician certification and the Certified Service Expert certification. The Certified Technician credential requires candidates to complete an exam covering basic principles of refrigeration, thermodynamics, electrical theory, safety practices and installation standards.

The Certified Service Expert credential requires candidates to pass an exam that covers advanced service techniques, diagnostic skills, troubleshooting procedures and customer relations.

4. Gain experience working with HVAC systems

HVAC mechanics typically need at least three years of experience working with HVAC systems before they can apply for a job. You can gain this experience by volunteering or taking an apprenticeship under the supervision of a professional HVAC technician.

Apprenticeships are often paid positions that allow you to learn from experienced HVAC technicians in a classroom and on the job. They usually last between one and four years, depending on the program.

5. Develop strong problem-solving skills

Chiller mechanics must be able to identify and solve problems with the cooling systems they work on. They may need to research solutions to issues, test different components to find the faulty one and replace it or make other repairs as needed. Having strong problem-solving skills can help chiller mechanics complete their tasks quickly and efficiently.

6. Stay up to date on changes in technology

Technology is constantly changing, and HVAC systems are no exception. New developments in technology can make it easier for building owners to control the temperature of their facilities or improve energy efficiency. For example, smart buildings use sensors and other devices to automatically adjust temperatures based on where people are located. Chiller mechanics must stay up to date on these changes so they can install new equipment or advise their clients on how to take advantage of new features.

7. Join professional organizations like the ACCA

The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) is a professional organization that offers training and certification in HVAC systems. Membership with the ACCA can help you find jobs, learn new skills and stay up to date on industry changes. You can join the ACCA as an apprentice or journeyman depending on your level of experience.

The ACCA also offers certifications for chiller mechanics. To earn the Certified Chiller Technician credential, you must have at least two years of experience working with chillers and be able to pass an exam. The ACCA’s Certified Refrigeration/Air-Conditioning Technicians credential requires one year of experience and an exam.