Appliance service technicians repair and service consumer related appliance products including, but not limited to:
- central vacuum systems
- clothes washers
- cooking ventilation systems
- dehumidifiers
- dishwashers
- electric clothes dryers
- electric fireplaces
- electric freezers
- electric ranges
- electric refrigerators
- electric water heater
- gas clothes dryers
- gas ranges
- humidifiers
- ice makers
- microwave ovens
- residential air conditioners
- waste compactors
- waste disposers
- water coolers
- window and portable air conditioners
Appliance service technicians identify appliance concerns by performing diagnostic procedures with testing equipment. Based on their assessment, they provide work and cost estimates to the customer. They may provide installation and maintenance services. They disassemble appliances, repair, remove and replace components, and reassemble appliances. They recover refrigerant gases and transfer the gases into approved storage containers for disposal according to jurisdictional regulations. Appliance service technicians may be called to demonstrate the use and care of the appliance to the customer.
Appliance service technicians may specialize in certain types or brands of appliances. They may be self-employed or employed by retail and manufacturer repair departments, utility companies or appliance service shops. Technicians may be supplied with service vehicles. The work environment may vary considerably because most of the work is in customers’ homes.
Key attributes for people entering this trade are communication, organizational and problem-solving skills. The physical considerations of the work include bending, kneeling and moving large appliances. If safety procedures are not followed there is an increased risk of physical injury due to electrical shocks, cuts, burns and muscle strain.
Appliance service technicians may consult and coordinate with other tradespeople such as refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics, electricians, gas fitters and plumbers.
With experience, appliance service technicians may move into technical training, sales or supervisory positions. They may also work in their own appliance service business.
For more information, see Red Seal Trades – Appliance Service Technician
