Have you always wondered where the water in your tap actually comes from and wished you had been curious enough to open the walls and take a look? Or do you often wonder why the heating in your house magically heats up as soon as you turn it on? What are the ingenious techniques behind the fact that you can choose between hot and cold water for your shower and that the air conditioning ensures a cool breeze in summer? These conundrums may soon disappear into thin air, because with an apprenticeship as a plumbing, heating and air conditioning system mechanic, you will have an absolute perspective on power systems.

What does a Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic do?

A plumbing, heating and air conditioning mechanic has probably been in your home before. Whenever something needs to be installed or hooked up in the bathroom or on the radiator, they're there. During your three-and-a-half-year apprenticeship as a plumbing, heating and air-conditioning mechanic, you will learn what materials water pipes are made of and how they are laid correctly so that no drops go wrong. In addition, you will quickly become a professional when it comes to installing sanitary installations (e.g. shower, bath or toilet) and heating systems. But first you will learn the technical and organisational basics. For example, after a short period of time you can take orders from customers, plan and execute work processes and finally evaluate the results. The technical basics include drilling, screwing and welding fastening systems, but also the production of tubes, sheets and profiles. Your manual skills are required here, as parts often have to be made to measure to ensure that they fit 100% and that the customer is satisfied.

What skills are important for a system mechanic in sanitary, heating and air conditioning technology?

Care is an important basic requirement in this profession, because every mistake can be life-threatening, especially when working on gas systems. But don't worry, during your apprenticeship as a plumbing, heating and air conditioning mechanic you will learn every move so well that you can do it in your sleep.

Above all, you should have a keen interest in technology, as you will be working a lot with electrical control devices needed to regulate heating systems. A great deal of sensitivity is required here to ensure that the heating system uses as little fuel as possible, but still heats up well. If a system stops working and no one knows why, you diagnose it, just like in the treatment of a patient, and then correct the error.

Where does a plumbing, heating and air conditioning mechanic work?

You will certainly not be bored with your apprenticeship as a system mechanic for plumbing, heating and air conditioning technology. Whether in a company, at a customer's premises or at a vocational school: During your training you will be on the road a lot and will master many challenges. Some of your work may also take place outdoors or at great heights, for example if you are installing a solar system that supplies hot water to the house. Two hands are often not enough for heavy work, so you usually work in a team and can count on the support of your colleagues. Are you not afraid of a challenge, are you intelligent and do not stop at physical work? Then an apprenticeship as a sanitary, heating and air-conditioning mechanic is exactly the right thing for you!

By the way
In 2003, the classic professions of gas and water plumber and heating and ventilation engineer were combined in a training course to become a sanitary, heating and air-conditioning mechanic. The profession is often confused with plumbing. But plumbers do something completely different - for example, they install gutters or roofs and chimneys covered with sheet metal!

What are the prospects as a plumbing, heating and air conditioning mechanic?

In order to have a good chance on the job market, it is essential to continue training or to acquire additional qualifications. After all, you should always be up-to-date with the latest technology.

How can I continue my studies or progress?

You can take your master craftsman's exam, for example as a master plumber or heating engineer. You also have the option of continuing your education, for example as a heating, ventilation and air conditioning technology technician or as a solar technology specialist. If you have a high school diploma, a degree in supply engineering is a good option.