Summer Skills: Why Air Conditioning and Refrigerant Licences Are Important for Perth Electricians

As summer heats up across Perth, the demand for skilled tradespeople with an air-conditioning and refrigeration licence is soaring. For electricians, this qualification offers a significant career boost, enabling you to expand your services into one of the most in-demand areas: installing, maintaining, and decommissioning air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
This article explores the importance of obtaining a refrigerant handling licence, the opportunities it unlocks, and why now is the perfect time to enrol in a Certificate II in Split Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Systems (UEE20120).

Why an Air Conditioning Licence is Essential for Electricians

An air-conditioning and refrigeration licence equips electricians with the skills to handle refrigerants safely, a requirement under Australia’s strict codes of practice. This licence is mandatory for working on split air conditioning systems, heat pumps, and refrigeration equipment that use fluorocarbon refrigerants.

With temperatures soaring in Perth, businesses and homeowners are heavily reliant on air-conditioning systems, creating a surge in demand for licensed professionals. Expanding into this field means electricians can offer more services, from installing domestic air conditioning units to maintaining refrigeration systems for commercial clients.

Career Benefits of a Refrigerant Handling Licence

• Increased Job Opportunities
  
  • A refrigerant handling licence opens doors to lucrative contracts in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Licensed electricians can work on a wider range of air-conditioning and refrigeration projects, increasing earning potential and career stability.
• Regulatory Compliance
  • Compliance with Australian standards and the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) regulations is non-negotiable. Since 2005 the Australian Government has implemented a licensing scheme to support regulations under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989. A licence ensures you meet these requirements and avoid penalties for unlicensed work.
• Skill Enhancement
  • By obtaining a Certificate II in Split Air Conditioning (UEE20120), electricians gain valuable hands-on experience in working with refrigeration and air conditioning systems. The practical component of this qualification helps you stay ahead in a competitive industry.

How to Get Your Air Conditioning Licence

To become licensed, you must:

• Successfully complete a Certificate II in Split Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Systems (UEE20120).
  • This course includes units on:
  • Installing and commissioning split air conditioning systems.
  • Handling fluorocarbon refrigerants in compliance with the ARC’s codes of practice.
• Apply for a Refrigerant Handling Licence - After completing the course, submit an application form to the ARC to obtain your licence. This qualification is valid across Australia, ensuring compliance whether you’re working in Perth or other parts of the country.
• Maintain Your Licence - Regularly update your knowledge through training and stay informed about changes in air-conditioning and refrigeration standards.

What Does the Course Cover?

The Certificate II in Split Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Systems (UEE20120) covers essential skills, including:

• Installation of single head split air conditioning systems.
• Decommissioning and commissioning of units.
• Safe handling of refrigerants to prevent environmental harm from ozone-depleting substances.
• Performing associated electrical work, ensuring compliance with Australian standards.

Why Enrol Now?

Summer is the peak season for air conditioning installation and maintenance, making it the ideal time to enhance your skills. CET's course only takes 4 days, so you are able to take advantage of the current heat and customer demand. 

CET's course is available to all qualified electricians and 4th year electrical apprentices. 

Partner with a Recognised Training Provider

Choosing the right training provider is crucial. Look for accredited courses that include both theory and a practical component delivered by experienced assessors. The successful completion of a Certificate II in Split Air Conditioning (UEE20120) will leave you with a thorough understanding of necessary theory plus practical experience to prepare you for real-world applications.

Take the Next Step in Your Career

Electricians in Perth have a unique opportunity to grow their careers by obtaining an air-conditioning and refrigeration licence. This nationally recognised qualification not only increases your earning potential but also ensures you remain competitive in a dynamic and in-demand industry.

Don’t wait until after the summer rush —enrol today and unlock new opportunities as a licensed professional in air-conditioning and refrigeration.