Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) mechanics install, commission, service, and repair commercial refrigeration systems, industrial chillers, cold rooms, supermarket display units, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. In South Africa, the RAC trade is registered under MERSETA (the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA). The formal path requires a TVET N2 Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning followed by a 3–4 year apprenticeship and a Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) trade test. With food safety cold chains, data centre cooling, commercial building HVAC, and mining underground ventilation all requiring specialist RAC artisans, demand is strong and growing. The trade also requires registration with SAQCC Gas (South African Qualification and Certification Committee for Gas) for handling refrigerant gases.
RAC mechanics read refrigeration system schematics, install and braze copper refrigerant pipework, commission compressors and condenser units, charge systems with refrigerant gases, diagnose and repair faults using pressure gauges and manifold sets, service air handling units, fit thermostatic expansion valves and electronic controls, and maintain gas handling records as required by SAQCC.
Grade 10 (Std 8) minimum for TVET N2 entry. Mathematics (Level 3+) and Physical Science recommended for thermodynamics and electrical circuit work. TVET N2, N3 Certificates in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning required. Mathematical Literacy accepted for N-level entry.
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Complete Grade 10 and enrol at a TVET college for N2 and N3 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. Physical Science is particularly useful — RAC theory involves refrigeration cycles, thermodynamics, electrical circuits, and gas laws. Many TVET colleges offer RAC as a dedicated programme.
Register as an apprentice with a MERSETA-accredited employer in commercial refrigeration, HVAC contracting, food retail (Pick n Pay, Shoprite, and Woolworths all employ RAC artisans), data centre facilities management, or building services. Your 3–4 year apprenticeship combines practical site work with N4–N6 theory. MERSETA bursaries cover TVET fees and pay a monthly training allowance.
Pass the GCC Refrigeration and Air Conditioning trade test and register with SAQCC Gas to handle refrigerants legally. Qualified RAC mechanics are in short supply relative to demand. Experienced RAC artisans progress to refrigeration engineer technician, HVAC project manager, or facilities manager roles. International demand in the Middle East and Australia is strong for South African RAC artisans.
How do I become a refrigeration mechanic in South Africa?
Are there bursaries for refrigeration and AC training in South Africa?
What do refrigeration and AC mechanics earn in South Africa?
Why is refrigeration mechanics a high-demand trade in South Africa?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.