Scope

Appliance service technicians repair and service consumer related appliance products including, but not limited to:

• electric ranges
• electric refrigerators
• electric freezers
• dishwashers
• hood fans
• waste disposers
• ice makers
• electric clothes dryers
• clothes washers
• electric water heaters
• window air conditioners
• residential air conditioners
• gas ranges
• gas refrigerators
• gas freezers
• microwave ovens
• gas barbecues
• waste compactors
• water coolers
• gas clothes dryers
• central vacuum systems
• vacuum cleaners
• dehumidifiers
• humidifiers

Appliance service technicians determine the appliance failure 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 perform recovery and proper disposal of refrigerant gases. Appliance service technicians are responsible for evaluating the repair and demonstrating 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. They may work in the shop or travel to work onsite. The work environment may vary from comfortable shops to cramped workspaces.

Key attributes for people entering this trade are communication, organizational and problem-solving skills. The physical considerations of the work include bending, stooping, crouching and moving large heavy appliances. There is some risk of physical injury due to electrical shocks, cuts, burns or 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 training, sales or supervisory positions. They may also work in their own appliance service business.

Observations

Appliances are becoming integrated with electronic technology. Therefore, appliance service technicians need to continually upgrade their skills in electronic diagnosis, circuitry and microprocessors. Appliance components are more disposable, making component replacement more common than component repair.

The use of computers is becoming more commonplace and provides appliance service technicians with manufacturer information in order to repair appliances.

Safety

Safe working procedures and conditions, accident prevention and the preservation of health are of primary importance to industry in Canada. These responsibilities are shared and require the joint efforts of government, employers and employees. It is imperative that all parties are aware of circumstances and conditions that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviours that may contribute to accidents or injury.

It is generally recognized that a safety-conscious attitude and work practices contribute to a healthy, safe and accident-free working environment.

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Acts and Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) Regulations. As well, it is essential to determine workplace hazards and take measures to protect oneself, co-workers, the public and the environment.

As safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions, personal safety practices are not recorded in this document. However, the technical safety aspect relating to each task and sub-task are included throughout this analysis.

Job Titles