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Best refrigeration mechanic certifications

Refrigeration mechanic certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an refrigeration mechanic to employers. However, not all refrigeration mechanic certifications provide the same value for job seekers.

The best certifications for a refrigeration mechanic are EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA), Journeyman Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, and Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO).

Below is a list of the best refrigeration mechanic certifications. Obtaining an refrigeration mechanic certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.

7 best refrigeration mechanic certifications

1. EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA)

A comprehensive, equipment specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents, which serve to put a spotlight on potential issues, can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? 
Certifying organization
Event Planners Association

2. Journeyman Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Originally a P.I.P.E. Certification since January 1986, this certification has been issued by NITC since 1998. A certificate and photo-id card is issued upon successful completion of all requirements.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)

3. Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO)

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)

4. Commercial Refrigeration Specialist

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? No

5. HVAC Master Specialist

A written exam indicates whether a technician has retained the knowledge to be competent, but not whether they are competent. Just as new drivers take a written exam and a road test to demonstrate their knowledge and skill, Master Specialists are required to go beyond a written test and demonstrate their skill and workmanship. The analogy would be knowing which solder to use and then demonstrating that you can solder tubing that is structurally sound and leak free. The Master Specialist program requires a technician to demonstrate retained knowledge and prove that they can apply that knowledge through skill verification.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? 
Certifying website
HVAC Master Specialist
Certifying organization
ESCO Group

6. Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Professional

If you are an EPA-certified installer, then the BPI Air Conditioning & Heat Pump Professional certification is the right next step for you. By achieving this certification, you will prove that you understand the role of refrigerant-based mechanical systems and their interaction with other building systems.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
Certifying organization
Building Performance Institute

7. Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator (CARO)

Operator Assistant has basic knowledge to function in an engine room.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)

What is the best certification for a refrigeration mechanic?

The best refrigeration mechanic certification is EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA). The EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA) is awarded by the Event Planners Association. This certification is great to have as it shows an improvement in your competency to perform your role. You can earn this certification at the beginning of your career, as it often doesn't require a minimum education level and work experience.

Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this refrigeration mechanic certification:

  • To become a certified EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA), you need to pass the exam.
  • Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
  • Renew certification every year.

What are some of the most in-demand certifications for refrigeration mechanics?

The most in-demand refrigeration mechanic certification is Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator based on all active job postings. Having this refrigeration mechanic certification will give you access to more refrigeration mechanic jobs with higher salaries.

What certifications can impact a refrigeration mechanic career and salary?

The EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification certification will help you to secure a hvac mechanic position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A hvac mechanic's average salary is $46,382 whereas refrigeration mechanics make an average salary of $47,677.

Best certifications

The most common combination of refrigeration mechanic certifications include: EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA), Journeyman Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, and Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO).

Online courses for refrigeration mechanics to earn certifications

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