FAQs About Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology

Refrigeration and air conditioning technology is a growing field, which offers a variety of different possiblities for job choices. It can be a financially rewarding career, and is a career that offers good job opportunities wherever you may travel, regardless of the climate.

Because refrigeration and air conditioning technology is a growing field, many people express interest in pursuing it as a career. Following are some of the most common questions asked concerning the field.

Frequently-asked questions about refrigeration and air conditioning technology:

Q. Will there be work in the winter for air conditioning or refrigeration technicians?

A.  Yes. There are many commercial buildings that require servicing throughout the year. Grocery stores have refrigeration for their dairy items, produce, and meats, and require these to be running throughout the year.

Q. Does the industry require a four-year degree?

 A.  No. An associate's degree is all that is required for most jobs, although there are people that continue their education beyond that point.

Q. Does the industry use computers?

 A.  Yes. There are various computers used for these jobs, including programmable thermostats. In fact, computers frequently are used to control entire building systems and indoor climate control. 

Q. How large is the industry?

A.  The industry is very large. It is estimated that it is $175 billion a year and covers everything from manufacturing to servicing of equipment.

Q. What is the difference between environmental air conditioning and commercial refrigeration?

A.  Environmental air conditioning concerns controlling temperature and humidity by treating the air, and concerns human comfort. Commercial refrigeration uses equipment to control humidity and temperature for a specific space. It's limited to freezers, coolers, and other commercial equipment.