Fig.

20-3 The temperature in data processing centers must be carefully controlled if the data-
processing equipment is to operate properly. Such equipment often generates a great deal of heat.
Thus, air conditioning is essential for the equipment to function properly. This operator works in an
air-conditioned room.

other perishables. Because these trades have attracted
many people, the beginner mechanics may face compe-
tition for jobs as helpers or apprentices.
Pay and Benefits
Most mechanics work for hourly wages. These skilled
air-conditioning and refrigeration specialists receive
pay frequently higher than those who work in similar
specialties.
Apprentices receive a percentage of the wage paid
to the experienced mechanics. Their percentage is
about 40 percent at the beginning of their training.
They receive 80 percent during their fourth year.
Mechanics usually work a 40-h week. However,
during seasonal peaks they often work overtime or
irregular hours. Most employers try to provide a full
workweek for the entire year. By doing this, they have
mechanics when they need them most during the sum-
mer months. However, they may temporarily reduce
hours or lay off some mechanics when seasonal peaks
end. In most shops that service air-conditioning and
refrigeration equipment, employment is largely stable
through out the year.
Median hourly earnings of heating, air-conditioning,
and refrigeration mechanics and installers were $16.78
in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $12.95
and $21.37 an hour. The lowest 10 percent earned less
than $10.34, and the top 10 percent earned more than
$26.20. Median hourly earnings in the industries employ-
ing the largest numbers of heating, air-conditioning,
and refrigeration mechanics and installers in 2002 were
as follows:
Hardware, and plumbing and heating $18.78
equipment and supplies merchant
wholesalers
Commercial and industrial machinery $17.16
and equipment (except automotive and
electronic) repair and maintenance
Direct selling establishments $17.14
Elementary and secondary schools $16.80
Building equipment contactors $16.03
Apprentices usually begin at about 40 to 50 per
cent of the wage rate paid to experienced workers. As
they gain experience and improve their skills, they
receive periodic increases until they reach the wage
rate of experienced workers.
Heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechan-
ics and installers enjoy a variety of employer-sponsored
benefits. In addition to typical benefits, such as health
insurance and pension plans, some employers pay for
work-related training and provide uniforms, company
vans, and tools.
About 20 percent of heating, air-conditioning, and
refrigeration mechanics and installers are members of
a union. The unions to which the greatest numbers of
mechanics and installers belong to are the Sheet Metal

Industries that Employ Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics 527