Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Install and repair industrial and commercial refrigerating systems.
How AI Impacts Each Task
21 tasks analyzed
Observe and test system operation, using gauges and instruments.
Adjust valves according to specifications and charge system with proper type of refrigerant by pumping the specified gas or fluid into the system.
Test lines, components, and connections for leaks.
Adjust or replace worn or defective mechanisms and parts and reassemble repaired systems.
Dismantle malfunctioning systems and test components, using electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic testing equipment.
Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks.
Perform mechanical overhauls and refrigerant reclaiming.
Keep records of repairs and replacements made and causes of malfunctions.
Install expansion and control valves, using acetylene torches and wrenches.
Install wiring to connect components to an electric power source.
Mount compressor, condenser, and other components in specified locations on frames, using hand tools and acetylene welding equipment.
Schedule work with customers and initiate work orders, house requisitions, and orders from stock.
Estimate, order, pick up, deliver, and install materials and supplies needed to maintain equipment in good working condition.
Supervise and instruct assistants.
Cut, bend, thread, and connect pipe to functional components and water, power, or refrigeration system.
Lay out reference points for installation of structural and functional components, using measuring instruments.
Read blueprints to determine location, size, capacity, and type of components needed to build refrigeration system.
Lift and align components into position, using hoist or block and tackle.
Fabricate and assemble structural and functional components of refrigeration system, using hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment.
Drill holes and install mounting brackets and hangers into floor and walls of building.
Insulate shells and cabinets of systems.
| Task | AI Capability | Risk | Time % | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Observe and test system operation, using gauges and instruments. | 25Estimated | 37.0% | 8% | |
| Adjust valves according to specifications and charge system with proper type of refrigerant by pumping the specified gas or fluid into the system. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 6% | |
| Test lines, components, and connections for leaks. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 6% | |
| Adjust or replace worn or defective mechanisms and parts and reassemble repaired systems. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 8% | |
| Dismantle malfunctioning systems and test components, using electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic testing equipment. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 8% | |
| Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 6% | |
| Perform mechanical overhauls and refrigerant reclaiming. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 6% | |
| Keep records of repairs and replacements made and causes of malfunctions. | 95Estimated | 87.2% | 4% | |
| Install expansion and control valves, using acetylene torches and wrenches. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 5% | |
| Install wiring to connect components to an electric power source. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 5% | |
| Mount compressor, condenser, and other components in specified locations on frames, using hand tools and acetylene welding equipment. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 5% | |
| Schedule work with customers and initiate work orders, house requisitions, and orders from stock. | 95Estimated | 87.2% | 4% | |
| Estimate, order, pick up, deliver, and install materials and supplies needed to maintain equipment in good working condition. | 10Estimated | 13.0% | 4% | |
| Supervise and instruct assistants. | 15Estimated | 21.0% | 3% | |
| Cut, bend, thread, and connect pipe to functional components and water, power, or refrigeration system. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 5% | |
| Lay out reference points for installation of structural and functional components, using measuring instruments. | 25Estimated | 37.0% | 3% | |
| Read blueprints to determine location, size, capacity, and type of components needed to build refrigeration system. | 70Estimated | 55.0% | 4% | |
| Lift and align components into position, using hoist or block and tackle. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 3% | |
| Fabricate and assemble structural and functional components of refrigeration system, using hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. | 5Estimated | 11.0% | 4% | |
| Drill holes and install mounting brackets and hangers into floor and walls of building. | 53.12Observed | 54.3% | 2% | |
| Insulate shells and cabinets of systems. | 59.62Observed | 56.9% | 2% |
Skill Impact Analysis
AI-Vulnerable Skills (6)
High reliance on Mathematics is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Information Ordering is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Reading Comprehension is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
Mathematics is AI-vulnerable but has moderate importance in this role. AI tools may handle this; focus on higher-value skills.
Memorization is AI-vulnerable but has moderate importance in this role. AI tools may handle this; focus on higher-value skills.
Programming is AI-vulnerable but has moderate importance in this role. AI tools may handle this; focus on higher-value skills.
AI-Resistant Skills (11)
Equipment Maintenance is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Adaptability/Flexibility is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Leadership is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Complex Problem Solving is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Social Perceptiveness is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Manual Dexterity is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Coordination is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Service Orientation is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
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Risk reduction and salary impact are estimates based on skill gap analysis, course relevance, and labor market data. Actual results vary by individual circumstance.
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Score History
Risk score over 2 scoring runs
overall change
Education & Training
Percentage of workers at each education and training level
Education Level
Prior Experience Needed
Work experience required to enter this job
Training Provided After Hiring
How long it typically takes to learn on the job
Last scored March 14, 2026 · Based on BLS employment data and O*NET task analysis