What Does an Appliance Service Technician Do?

Appliance Service Technicians repair, service, maintain and install a variety of domestic appliances and household products.

Job Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • planning and preparing for the job by reading and interpreting work orders, diagrams, specifications and manuals
  • using hand and power tools, measuring devices and testing equipment to diagnose problems and verify/test corrective actions taken
  • performing customer service functions, including resolving business enquiries, preparing cost estimates, cleaning and inspecting the work site and demonstrating operation of the products
  • selecting/inspecting refrigeration sealed systems equipment, recovery equipment, measuring devices, and soldering, brazing and welding equipment for domestic appliances
  • diagnosing, maintaining, adjusting and repairing electronic control and component systems, natural gas systems, electrical systems, incoming water and water discharge systems, static and forced air systems as well as sealed systems of domestic appliances 
  • developing a thorough and practical knowledge of environmental legislation, hazardous materials, Codes of Practice, manufacturer's and employer standards in regard to domestic appliances
  • being in good physical condition
  • working well and communicating verbally and in writing with co-workers and customers 
  • learning and keeping up to date on various new technology, materials and regulations

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

To become an Appliance Service Technician, you should complete your secondary school education (Grade 12), preferably with some senior credits in English, Drafting, Electronics, Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry. Coop or enrolment in OYAP while attending secondary school will give you exposure to the demands of the job and skill set required, and would be regarded as an asset by an employer. Some community colleges also offer post-secondary appliance service/repair courses. Types of subjects you might take in a post secondary Appliance Repair course can be found at the following community college website:  www.kwantlen.bc.ca/calendar/applcrs.html

Apprenticeship Subject Pathways provides additional information for students/parents/educators:

http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/training/apprenticeship/skills/pathwaye.pdf

What’s Your Future as an Appliance Service Technician?

Appliance Service Technicians usually work a forty hour full time work week,  some with on-call duties on weekends. Repairing larger appliances takes a good deal of physical stamina, but small appliance repair does not make as many physical demands. Larger appliances are usually serviced in the home of the customer, so a presentable appearance, good attitude and courteous manner is essential. Working conditions in the home environment will vary. Small appliances are often repaired at a clean and comfortable repair shop. Some employers may be unionized and others not; benefits may also be available depending on the employer. The types of domestic appliances you will work on, and the problems you could encounter in their operation are highlighted at the following website - check it out for additional information: http://www.appliancerepair.net.

 Examples of typical employers include:

  • large or small repair shops
  • appliance manufacturers
  • Gas & Utility companies
  • self-employed

Wage Rate

  • apprentices usually start at a wage rate less than that of a journeyperson
  • this rate increases gradually as you gain competency and skill
  • a fully qualified Appliance Service Technician can earn anywhere from $10.00/hr to $25.00/hr or more, sometimes with employee benefits 

Ask Yourself: Is working as an Appliance Service Technician for You?

Self-Rating

 

Do you enjoy working with your hands to fix things, using a variety of tools and equipment?

Yes      No

Do you have the physical stamina to move large appliances, bend, stoop or crouch in narrow or confined spaces if required?

Yes      No

Are you a self-starter who can work with little or no supervision, travel from job to job and still complete the required number of house/repair calls?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology, different systems,  regulations and materials?

Yes      No

Do you have a pleasant manner and presentable appearance to work directly with customers in their homes?

Yes      No

Do you like to problem solve and enjoy performing a variety of tasks during your working day?

Yes      No

 

If you answered yes to most of these questions, a career as an Appliance Service Technician may be for you!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • Electronics Repairer
  • Electrician
  • Heating, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Technician
  • Small Engine Mechanic
  • Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

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