R-22
R-22, also known as Freon, is a type of refrigerant that was commonly used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems before being phased out due to environmental concerns. When reviewing resumes in the HVAC industry, this term indicates experience with older cooling systems, their maintenance, and importantly, the ability to handle the transition to newer, environmentally-friendly refrigerants. Think of it like outdated computer software - technicians need to know how to work with both old and new systems since many buildings still have equipment using R-22.
Examples in Resumes
Performed maintenance and repairs on R-22 and Freon based air conditioning systems
Managed transition from R-22 to environmentally compliant refrigerants in commercial buildings
Certified in safe handling and disposal of R-22 refrigerant systems
Typical job title: "HVAC Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find HVAC Technicians
Professional Organizations
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Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle the phase-out of R-22 when working with clients who still have R-22 systems?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss educating customers about phase-out regulations, providing cost comparisons between continuing R-22 maintenance versus system replacement, and explaining various replacement options and their benefits.
Q: What strategies do you use to manage a team during large-scale R-22 system replacements?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate project management skills, safety protocols, team coordination, and ability to maintain service quality while meeting environmental regulations and customer budgets.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What alternatives to R-22 do you recommend, and why?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common replacement refrigerants like R-410A, discussing their benefits and limitations in terms that customers can understand, and demonstrate knowledge of conversion procedures.
Q: Describe your process for identifying and repairing an R-22 leak.
Expected Answer: Should outline safety procedures, detection methods, repair techniques, and proper documentation of refrigerant handling as required by regulations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety precautions do you take when handling R-22?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper protective equipment, handling procedures, and basic understanding of environmental and safety regulations regarding refrigerants.
Q: What is R-22 and why is it being phased out?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of R-22 as a refrigerant, its environmental impact, and awareness of the phase-out timeline and regulations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic R-22 system maintenance
- Safety procedures and protective equipment use
- Simple leak detection
- Basic system charging
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex system troubleshooting
- R-22 to alternative refrigerant conversion knowledge
- Advanced leak repair techniques
- Customer consultation on system upgrades
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management for system replacements
- Team leadership and training
- Complex commercial system expertise
- Regulatory compliance management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No EPA certification for handling refrigerants
- Lack of knowledge about current R-22 phase-out regulations
- No experience with modern replacement refrigerants
- Poor understanding of safety protocols
- No documentation of proper refrigerant handling
Related Terms
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