Basics

• Refrigerator and air conditioner technicians must have a firm understanding of refrigerators and freezers, and cooling and heating units. They must understand the function of each switch, pump, light, wire, thermostat and fan, using equipment and tools to test gas and water levels, as well as other elements to keep each unit functioning properly. Refrigerator and air conditioner technicians often spend a lot of time on the road, traveling between job sites. Most have to be prepared to drop a task for another more pressing repair--such as when someone's heating unit stops functioning during the middle of winter, or when a refrigerator's cooling unit malfunctions.
  
  

Skills

• A refrigerator and air conditioner technician must be analytical and possess strong communication skills, considering she must diagnose a repair and relay information about it to customers. Communication skills are equally vital when installing units, as technicians need to explain how each unit operates. They also should possess the strength and stamina needed to move and lift heavy appliances, as well as the flexibility needed for a variety of repairs.
  
  

Background

• Refrigerator and air conditioner technicians often have a basic idea of how to install refrigerators, air conditioners and heaters before ever taking their first job. Many are able to perfect their skills while on the job, although some attend vocational and technical colleges that offer hands-on training and testing. At the very least, almost all need to have a high school diploma or the equivalent.
  
  

Prospects

• Refrigerator and air conditioner technicians held more than 308,000 jobs in 2008, with that number expected to increase considerably during the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of technicians will grow by 28 percent through 2018--or about as fast as all other occupations during the same span.
  
  

Earnings

• Refrigerator and air conditioner technicians can make a nice living with the proper amount of experience and skills. According to PayScale, they earned anywhere from $28,000 to nearly $66,000 per year in April 2010.